Gotham FC vs Seattle Reign FC preview: The NWSL Championship rematch

The three-game homestand will end when NJ/NY Gotham FC plays their NWSL Championship rematch against Seattle Reign FC, formerly known as OL Reign.  This will be the last NWSL home match before the Olympics and NWSL break for the NWSL x LIGA MX Femenil Summer Cup, so the Bats will want to earn all three points.

In addition, everyone should expect Seattle’s desire for revenge.  The two-win team is struggling immensely this year but they will still be a formidable opponent.  Any time a team loses in a major match, they always want to win the following one.  Therefore, supporters should expect the visiting side to come out aggressively.  The Bats must be their very best on the defensive end.

Of course, this is another match on paper that Gotham FC should win.  They are the more talented side at this time and have more star power.  Truthfully, the team is even menacing without some of their stars.  Yazmeen Ryan, who will not be available due to the red card from last week, and Ella Stevens are two great examples.

Without further ado, here is a preview of the upcoming match between Gotham FC and Seattle Reign FC.

Date

Gotham FC and Seattle Reign FC will play one another on Sunday, June 30.

Time

The game is at 1:00 PM ET.

Location

The fixture will occur at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ.

How to watch

Fans can watch the match on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, or ESPN+.

Weather

As of now, the weather is not looking the greatest for Sunday’s fixture.  It will be around 85 degrees, but it will feel like it is in the 90s.  There is a chance of thunderstorms, where some could be strong.  Supporters should expect and plan for possible delays.

Injury report

Midge Purce (knee) is out for the year while Abby Smith (lower leg) remains on the season-ending injury list.

6/30 update: Esther González (foot), Svava Guðmundsdóttir (excused absence), Kelley O'Hara (knee), and Yazmeen Ryan (red card suspension) are all out for Sunday. This means Kristen Edmonds and Lynn Williams are healthy and ready to go.

Players to watch

For this match, Gotham FC fans should watch all of their USWNT players who will soon be departing for the Olympics.  This will be the last time fans see them for a while, regardless of how far the ladies make it in the chase for gold.  It is an exciting time for them.  They will be missed in the summer tournament, but at least others will be given a chance to start.

On Seattle, fans should pay attention to Sofia Huerta.  The right-back is one of the more talented in the league and could be a problem on the right side of the pitch, especially defensively. 

Prediction

With Seattle’s struggles, it would be crazy for Gotham FC to end the day with anything less than three points.  The prediction is that the Bats will win 3-1, scoring their first three-goal game.