The dynamic duo of Gift Monday and Rinsola Babajide inspired UD Tenerife Femenino to a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Valencia Femenino in the Spanish Primera División Femenina on Saturday. Both Nigerians started the match and were influential throughout, though their contrasting roles reflected the game’s flow.
Rinsola was a constant thorn in Valencia’s side, causing problems with her pace and incisive runs. Early on, she won free kicks and cleverly set up Beatriz Beltrán for a chance that the winger narrowly missed. Her left-footed shot from distance also threatened the hosts’ goal, while she narrowly avoided offside flags on other occasions.
Despite Tenerife’s attacking intent, it was Valencia who struck first thanks to Macarena Portales in the 28th minute. The home side’s lead served as a wake-up call for Tenerife, but Rinsola remained their primary attacking outlet. Her pinpoint crosses in the second half found Paola Hernández and Natalia Ramos, but strong defending and a vigilant goalkeeper kept Tenerife at bay.
Gift Monday, playing a deeper role, had a quieter first half and was substituted at the break. However, Tenerife’s persistence paid off in the dying moments. Thaís Ferreira’s exquisite pass found Pisco, who coolly slotted home the equalizer in the 90th minute, sparking scenes of relief and celebration on the Tenerife bench.
The crucial away point keeps Tenerife in ninth place, but more importantly, it boosts their morale and confidence heading into their home match against Levante Las Planas on Sunday. With the Super Falcons duo in fine form, Tenerife will be hoping to climb the table in the coming weeks.
Key Points:
• Tenerife earned a 1-1 draw away at Valencia Femenino.
• Rinsola Babajide was a constant threat with her pace and passing.
• Gift Monday started but was substituted at half-time.
• Pisco scored a late equalizer for Tenerife.
• Tenerife face Levante Las Planas at home next Sunday.
