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Gotham FC Hosts Washington Spirit to Launch NWSL Rivalry Weekend

Gotham FC restricts Golden Boot leader Esther González’s minutes to protect their playoff hopes in Saturday’s opener at Sports Illustrated Stadium.

Nov 16, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Spirit goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury (1) makes a save against NJ/NY Gotham FC in a penalty kick shoot out in a 2024 NWSL Playoffs semifinal match at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • The clash kicks off at noon ET on Saturday at Sports Illustrated Stadium and will be broadcast on ESPN with streaming available via ESPN+ and FuboTV.
  • The NWSL’s new Rivalry Weekend initiative spotlights this regional derby after last season’s semifinal ended in a Spirit stoppage-time equalizer and penalty-kick win.
  • Gotham FC enter in eighth place (5-5-4), holding the final playoff spot as they begin a three-game home stretch to climb the standings.
  • Coach Juan Carlos Amorós has imposed a minutes restriction on Golden Boot leader Esther González, who has scored 10 goals this season, to preserve her fitness.
  • Washington Spirit sit third (8-4-2) and aim to extend their strong run after Trinity Rodman’s emotional match-winning return from a back injury last weekend.