Gotham FC vs Chicago Red Stars: How to watch, time, of the start of the Summer Cup

The NWSL season is paused due to the Olympics, so NJ/NY Gotham FC and the rest of the teams will begin the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup.  The new tournament replaces the old Challenge Cup format while taking some aspects of the Leagues Cup where Major League Soccer and Liga MX teams face off.  The Summer Cup will feature 20 teams, but only six of the Liga MX Femenil sides will play.

The next three matches will be challenging for Gotham FC.  Seven players will be at the Olympics and are available to play for their specific national team, for Lynn Williams was recently elevated to the 18-women squad for the USWNT.  That is great for the ladies in France, but not so much for the team at home.  The Bats will be extremely thin depth-wise.  They are missing some of their stars, but there is still plenty of talent available. Plus, four players were signed on temporary contracts to reinforce the roster.

Ideally, Juan Carlos Amorós will have everyone else available, with the exception of those on the season-ending injury list.  A couple of weeks off gave players some rest, with those on the last injury report time to heal.  Esther González has been out for a while now with a foot injury, so it would be great to see her back, even if she comes off the bench.  Fans are still waiting for the report to be released though.

Gotham FC will begin the Summer Cup with a game against the Chicago Red Stars.  The NJ/NY side beat them 2-1 in May, with Ella Stevens scoring a 90th-minute game-winner.  Unlike the Bats, Chicago is only missing a few players for the Olympics, including Mallory Swanson.  This match should set the tone for Group D, and with the Washington Spirit coming up next weekend, it is vital for Gotham to win.

How to watch and time of Gotham FC’s Summer Cup match against Chicago

Date

Saturday, July 20

Time

5:00 PM ET, with an expected kickoff time a little after 5:00 PM ET

How to watch on TV and streaming

CBS Sports Network on TV and Paramount+ for streaming

How to watch in person

Supporters would have to head to Illinois to catch the game

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

The Summer Cup gives players who normally do not play an opportunity to step up.  Strong performances can make it difficult for Amorós to choose players in the Starting XI once the NWSL resumes.