3 things we learned through Gotham FC's revenge win over San Diego Wave FC

On a stormy Friday evening, NJ/NY Gotham FC returned to Sports Illustrated Stadium for the first time since May. The Bats were in the middle of a six-game unbeaten streak that included five wins and a draw when they welcomed San Diego Wave FC to New Jersey. And now, that unbeaten streak has extended to seven matches after the home team won 1-0, winning their third 1-0 game in a row.

Notably, Gotham FC’s last loss was against the Wave. As such, the ladies really wanted to earn the win, especially for the crowd that traveled out on a Friday night and during a nasty storm. While the delay was nowhere near the delay that occurred during the Seattle Reign FC game last month, the match was postponed for about 25 minutes.

But when the game finally began, supporters were treated to Jaedyn Shaw’s first goal since May 15. It was a beautiful goal that had a slight curl to land in the goal. It ended her long drought, and more importantly, it led to the win.

As always, there is plenty to talk about. Here are three things we learned from Gotham FC’s win over San Diego.

Gotham FC likes clean sheets

There is no question that Gotham FC is fortunate to have Ann-Katrin Berger as the starting goalkeeper. Then, they are lucky to have a great backup keeper in Shelby Hogan. Between the two of them, and after Berger’s strong performance against the Wave, the Bats now have 12 clean sheets. That is the most in the NWSL.

But it is not just about the saves. Berger made three on Friday night but came off her line often. She knew when to go in for the catch and when to clear the ball. And of course, the defensive work by the team, especially the backline, remains vital in their quest for another trophy.

Believe

Ever since San Diego joined the league, the team has been a difficult opponent for Gotham FC. Before Friday, the NJ/NY side had won only twice, with both wins coming in 2024 and 2025. And after the loss to the Wave last month, there was the unknown of what would happen in the home match.

As such, the Bats used the confidence from their games between the last loss and Friday, and the power of belief. Of course, the ladies’ talent helped as well.

In addition, the cast of Ted Lasso was in the building, watching the match. The show is known for Ted’s poster of the word “Believe” that hangs in the fake locker room. So, Gotham and the show combined to make Believe hats and shirts. Having them at the game also was a way to remind Jason Sudeikis and his castmates who the real best team in the NWSL is. And hint: it is not the Kansas City Current.

Gotham FC needs Jaedyn Shaw

After her long scoreless drought, Shaw has finally scored again. This can be a critical moment for the player, for it might spark a period of goals. Gotham FC has been superb defensively, but remember, all three of their last wins were by one goal. In a long season, that is not sustainable.

If Shaw can join the attacking players by consistently scoring, then that will be a big help to Sam Kerr. Moreover, it will help her confidence immensely. Fans could tell that every miss was starting to get to her, and the smile after the winning goal said it all.

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