Nigeria international Deborah Abiodun has been named the National Women’s Soccer League’s Rookie of the Month for September following her strong performances for Washington Spirit, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The 20-year-old midfielder only made her debut on August 31 in a home match against Chicago, but quickly established herself as a key figure.

She earned her first start in a 2-0 win over Seattle the following week, and went on to feature in three of Washington’s four matches in September.

During that run, she led the Spirit in tackles and duels won, while also finishing second in the entire league for tackles won. She registered a passing accuracy of 87.3 per cent in the middle third.

Her contribution was crucial as the Spirit kept three clean sheets, scored multiple goals in each of their September fixtures and secured their place in the play-offs. The team, unbeaten since June, currently sit second in the standings.

Abiodun’s recognition continues a trend for Washington, who have now produced six Rookie of the Month winners since the start of the 2024 season.

The award, presented by Ally, is selected by the NWSL Media Association, a group of journalists covering the league, and the competition’s broadcast talent.

Washington Spirit, founded in 2012, also houses fellow Nigerian Gift Monday, who scored the fastest hat-trick in league history in the 4-0 win over Houston Dash last weekend and was named NWSL Player of the Week.