Gotham FC and the KC Current share the points in the 2024 Home Opener

On Sunday evening, NJ/ NY Gotham FC welcomed the Kansas City Current to Red Bull Arena for the NWSL Home Opener.  It was a day meant for celebration, for the Bats were celebrating their 2023 NWSL Championship.

While there was plenty of excitement heading into the game, Gotham FC knew they had a difficult challenge ahead of them.  KC entered the fixture in first place with three wins out of three.  They have been an offensive powerhouse, for the side has scored 11 goals.  With many players still missing and a few surprises remaining on the bench, could the Bats stop the Current?

Gotham FC was able to limit the visiting team’s goals.  The match ended in a 1-1 draw after a stronger second half saw the home side take over the game.

Gotham FC and the KC Current share the points

Unfortunately, it was the Current who struck first in the 17th minute.  Temwa Chawinga had a 1 v 1 run against Cassie Miller, drawing her off her goalkeeper line.  With a flick, the KC player sent the ball into the back of the net, continuing their incredible form.

During the rest of the first half, Gotham slowly became more threatening in the attack.  However, they struggled to put the ball into the back of the net.  In fact, there were numerous moments when players put the ball into the box.  The issue at hand was the lack of accuracy on the passes.

It was the second half where Gotham FC turned into a completely different team.  Juan Carlos Amorós brought on Crystal Dunn and Jenna Nighswonger.  Then, he changed the attacking lineup by moving Esther González into the number ten role.  The front three lined up as Dunn, Katie Stengel, and Yazmeen Ryan.  This change led the ladies to control the rest of the match.

It also led to the tying goal for Gotham in the 51st minute.  The ladies had a corner kick, where Ryan sent the ball directly to González.  The striker headed the ball into the right corner of the back of the net, leaving her as the only goal-scorer for the team.

The ladies continued to threaten the Current as the match progressed.  They had 14 shots with five on target.  The difference was that they could not capitalize on any other opportunity.

Like NYCFC, fans might be wondering whether they are struggling to score.  After three NWSL matches and four games overall, they have just two goals.  This is an early concern, for the team they have despite all of the injuries is still incredible.  The 1-1-1 start to the season is respectable.  Yet, this is supposed to be one of the best teams in the NWSL.

At least the Current did not entirely spoil the NWSL Championship celebration.  The ladies received their rings somewhat happy after the game concluded.  Of course, they know they can do more and want to win.