To the surprise of some, NJ/NY Gotham FC was at the top of their group of the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup before the third match of the group round. A surprising win over the Washington Spirit put the team in first place with five points. Then, after the Spirit and Chicago Red Stars played on Wednesday, the Bats were still in first since Chicago won 3-2.
Hence, the team was in a good position entering the final fixture against C.D. Guadalajara Femenil, also known as Chivas. A win or penalty kick shootout win would guarantee the semifinals. Anything less would be questionable, for only four of the five group winners move on to the semifinals. A loss would likely kick the NJ/NY team out of first too. Gotham also wants to move on so they have another game under their belt in August. Otherwise, they would have to wait until August 19 when they play Chelsea Women F.C. in a friendly. Plus, they want to make the semifinals.
Chivas is a good team though, so this game will be a tough challenge. The Mexican side finished the Apertura of last season in third place and the Clausura in fifth. They are full of talent and Mexican National Team players, so the Bats will have to play similarly to how they played against the Spirit. The difference is that they need to score a goal from open play or a set piece, and not a penalty kick.
In other words, Gotham FC needs players like Ella Stevens and Yazmeen Ryan to score. Great play on the pitch without goals does not win games or tournaments. The Bats need to finish the group round in style with all three points.
How to watch and time of Gotham FC’s game against C.D. Guadalajara Femenil
Date
Time
8:00 PM ET, with an expected kickoff time a little after 8:00 PM ET
How to watch on TV and streaming
CBS Sports Network and Paramount+
How to watch in person
Supporters can head to Red Bull Arena
How to listen
Unknown at this time
How to follow
Gotham FC fans can follow the game via Gotham FC’s X account. In addition, websites like ESPN and the NWSL’s website will have commentary feeds during the fixture.
Final Notes
After making her professional debut for Gotham FC in the last match, Mak Whitham will be available again on Friday. It would not be shocking to see the 14-year-old on the pitch again against Chivas.