The upcoming clash between the Washington Spirit and Gotham FC marks a significant moment in the 2025 NWSL Championship, presented by Google Pixel. This matchup occurs in San Jose and will be the 44th meeting between these two teams, making it the most frequent rivalry in the league’s history.
Historical Context of the Rivalry
Prior encounters highlight the competitive spirit of both clubs. The last playoff face-off occurred during the 2024 semifinals, where the Washington Spirit triumphed in a penalty shootout against Gotham FC. This history sets the stage for an exciting championship showdown.
Washington Spirit’s Path to the Championship
The Washington Spirit aims to turn the tide after their loss in the 2024 Championship against the Orlando Pride. They secured a strong second-place finish in the league, allowing them to host a crucial quarterfinal match. Their rowdy supporters rallied behind them as they achieved victory over Racing Louisville in a penalty shootout, where goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury made two pivotal saves, now holding the record for the most shootout saves in league history.
Player Highlights
- Aubrey Kingsbury: Nicknamed the “Yellow Brick Wall,” she played a vital role in the Spirit’s success.
- Gift Monday and Trinity Rodman: Both contributed seven goals this season, providing strong offensive support.
- Tara McKeown: Recently named Defender of the Year, she transitioned from forward to defense, thriving in her new role.
Since the summer break, five players from the Spirit have achieved five or more goal contributions, showcasing their strong offensive depth. This balance will be crucial in their championship bid.
Gotham FC’s Underdog Story
On the other side, Gotham FC enters the championship as the first No. 8 seed to reach this stage. Defying expectations, they previously won the 2023 NWSL Championship after finishing sixth in the standings. Their journey to this final involved a historic win over the Kansas City Current, achieving a 2-1 victory with key contributions from Jaedyn Shaw, who scored the opening goal and assisted on the winning goal.
Key Players for Gotham FC
- Jaedyn Shaw: With two goals and an assist in her playoff debut, she has quickly established herself as a critical player.
- Esther González: Although quiet in her return from injury, her involvement in scoring could be pivotal.
- Midge Purce: The 2023 Championship MVP continues to play a central role in Gotham’s attack.
With key players like Rose Lavelle and Emily Sonnett providing experience and control in midfield, Gotham appears primed for a challenging championship match.
Looking Ahead
The spirit of competition and determination drives both teams into this decisive match. The Washington Spirit hopes to secure their first championship title, while Gotham FC aims to make history as the first eighth seed to win. Fans can anticipate an exhilarating encounter on November 22 at 8 p.m. ET, broadcast live on CBS and Paramount+.
