A compelling matchup awaits as Gotham FC hosts Kansas City Current in an NWSL clash following the international break. The game features a battle between two of the league`s most prolific scorers: Esther Gonzalez of Gotham, who leads with seven goals, and Temwa Chawinga of Kansas City, close behind with six. This will be the first meeting between the two clubs this season, taking place on Saturday at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey.
Teams Overview
Both teams were NWSL semifinalists last season but have had contrasting starts to 2025. Kansas City Current has surged to the top of the league standings, boasting eight wins. They have quickly established themselves as a strong title contender, attributed to their deep roster, clinical finishing, and a much-improved defense. Head coach Vlatko Andonovski is navigating the season effectively, managing key players like Debinha`s injury while maintaining competitiveness thanks to the team`s depth.
In contrast, Gotham FC is currently sitting in ninth place. However, they are coming off a significant victory, winning the inaugural Concacaf W Champions Cup. This triumph secured them qualification spots in the 2026 FIFA Women`s Champions Cup and the 2028 FIFA Women`s Club World Cup. Head coach Juan Carlos Amoros and his staff have faced considerable challenges due to numerous injuries, including a season-ending ACL tear for US national team defender Tierna Davidson. There is cautious optimism that USWNT midfielder Rose Lavelle is nearing her return from offseason ankle surgery.
Last Encounter
The most recent competitive meeting between these sides was in the final of the 2023 NWSL x LIGA MX Femenil Summer Cup, where Kansas City Current defeated Gotham FC 2-0. During the 2024 NWSL regular season, their two matches both ended in 1-1 draws. Both teams ultimately reached the NWSL semifinal round in 2024.
Coach Perspectives
Gotham FC coach Juan Carlos Amoros commented on the team`s recent Concacaf success and the mindset needed for their return to league play. He described the tournament in Mexico as different, with unique challenges, but emphasized the core philosophy remains the same: “We want to be Gotham. We want to entertain our fans, enjoy the gameplay, and get the three points.” Looking ahead to the Current match, he acknowledged their strength: “Obviously, paying extra attention, we can`t ignore the fact that at the moment they`re top of the table, in their own right they`ve been the best team this year so far. So, we need to make sure, hopefully, that we stop that run, and then we can get three points out of them.”
Kansas City Current coach Vlatko Andonovski expressed caution about facing Gotham, despite their league position. He highlighted their attacking threat: “I just think that they`re dangerous… they`re creating a lot, and creating in a way that not many teams can do.” Andonovski characterized Gotham as “very, very savvy. Very free-flowing and creative,” presenting unique challenges with their rotations that make them hard to track. He stressed the need for unwavering concentration: “We have to be so alert and focused for 90 minutes, because if you just shut down for a second, they`ll punish you… They`ll take advantage of it.”
Predicted Lineups
Gotham FC:
- Ann Katrin-Berger
- Lily Real, Emily Sonnett, Jess Carter, Mandy Freeman
- Jaelin Howell, Taryn Torres, Geyse, Sarah Schupansky, Midge Purce
- Esther Gonzalez
Kansas City Current:
- Lorena
- Hailie Mace, Kayla Sharples, Elizabeth Ball, Izzy Rodriguez
- Vanessa DiBernardo, Lo`Eau LaBonta, Claire Hutton
- Haley Hopkins, Temwa Chawinga, Bia Zaneratto
Player Spotlight
Sarah Schupansky, Gotham FC: The rookie forward has emerged as a significant positive for Gotham, especially during their early-season injury struggles. Schupansky has embraced increased responsibility in both playmaking and defense, delivering consistent and reliable performances. Her form has created selection dilemmas for the coaching staff as more experienced players regain fitness. Schupansky has credited veteran teammates, including the returning Rose Lavelle, as sources of learning, noting Lavelle`s valuable insights into playing the number 10 position.
Match Prediction
Following the international break, both teams may need time to regain their rhythm, potentially leading to a tightly contested match. Expect a narrow result.
Prediction: Gotham FC 2, Kansas City Current 1
