NWSL roundup: Gift Monday leads Spirit over Stars

Field Level Media|published: Sat 10th May, 15:42 2025

NWSL: Washington Spirit at Chicago Stars FC

May 10, 2025; Bridgeview, Illinois, USA; Washington Spirit forward Gift Monday (21) celebrates with Washington Spirit defender Tara McKeown (9) after scoring during the second half against Chicago Stars FC at SeatGeek Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melissa Tamez-Imagn Images

Gift Monday scored in the 83rd minute to break a tie as the Washington Spirit defeated the Chicago Stars FC 3-2 on Saturday afternoon at Bridgeview, Ill.

The Spirit (5-3-0, 15 points), who snapped a two-match losing streak, also had a goal from Rosemonde Kouassi and benefited from a first-half own goal that marked the first goal of the match. Washington scored on both of its shots on goal.

Julia Grosso and Sam Staab scored for Chicago (1-6-1, 4 points).

Kouassi, whose goal marked her first in NWSL play, assisted on the go-ahead goal. Monday shielded a defender in front of the net and took a pass from Kouassi to deliver the goal from short range.

Monday, who was a substitute, has scored in back-to-back matches and has three goals this season. Tara McKeown assisted on Kouassi's goal, making a precision pass as Kouassi cut through the box toward the net.

Aubrey Kingsbury made two saves for the Spirit.

--Field Level Media