Super Falcons forward Gift Monday was on target as Washington Spirit defeated Portland Thorns 2–0 on Saturday to book their place in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) Championship Final.

Monday broke the deadlock in the 27th minute, finishing off a swift counter-attack that started deep in Spirit’s half. Rosemonde Kouassi delivered the low cross, registering her sixth assist to Monday this season and continuing their impressive attacking chemistry. The Nigerian forward now has 13 goal contributions across all competitions,11 goals, and two assists.

Earlier in the match, Monday thought she had put Spirit ahead inside the opening 10 minutes after sliding home a pass from Croix Bethune, but VAR chalked it off for offside.

Washington Spirit remained in control after the break, keeping Portland at bay and dictating the tempo. Their dominance paid off in the 83rd minute when Bethune pounced on a misplaced back pass, rounded goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold, and calmly slotted into an empty net to seal the win.

Deborah Abiodun, Monday’s compatriot, featured off the bench, replacing Leicy Santos in the 73rd minute.

The victory sends Washington Spirit into their second straight NWSL Championship Final and their fourth overall. They will face the winner of Sunday’s semi-final between Orlando Pride and Gotham FC on November 22 at PayPal Park in San Jose, California.