When Gift Monday scored the first goal of the quarterfinal matchup between the Spirit and Racing, it meant more than giving her team the lead.

It gave her confirmation that her late father was there with her.

Monday shared last week that her father, Effiom Monday Akpan, passed away. She missed Decision Day to be with her family in Nigeria for the services.

She told ESPN Africa that her dad taught her everything she knows, and she knew she had to be back on the pitch with her teammates.

“He was my first coach. He made me who I am today. He trained me on how to keep believing and keep moving on, and if I didn’t come back and this goal didn’t happen, I might never forgive myself because I might feel like I’m still grieving,” Monday said. “But with this, I know my dad is with me and is giving me the strength to keep going. The goal is the proof.”

In her first NWSL season, Monday has made a lasting impression, scoring eight goals in the regular season. That included a record-breaking hat trick, the fastest from kickoff.

As she wrote on Instagram, her father made her who she is in every way.

“My dad was more than just a father – he was my foundation. His sacrifices, his hard work, and his quiet wisdom shaped the person I have become today,” Monday wrote. “Every value he instilled in me, humility, resilience, honesty, and faith in God – has guided me not only in life but also in my football career.”

As the Spirit advanced to the semifinals kicking off next weekend, Monday moves forward knowing her dad is with her every step of the way.