As the NWSL regular season resumes following an international break, two leading contenders for the Golden Boot face off on CBS. Just a single goal distinguishes Kansas City’s Temwa Chawinga (6) from Gotham FC’s Esther Gonzalez (7) in a highly competitive scoring race. Their teams will clash for the first time this season at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, on Saturday. Fans can catch the action on CBS.
Both teams reached the semi-finals in the 2024 NWSL playoffs, but their strategies during the 2025 season have differed. Kansas City currently sits at the top of the standings with eight victories, showcasing a strong roster, effective finishing, and solid defensive play.
Head coach Vlatko Andonovski is managing the challenge of an injury to MVP contender Debinha, but he is keen to maintain their competitiveness as the halfway point of the season approaches. Meanwhile, Gotham FC, though in ninth place, is just one win away from clinching their first CONCACAF Champions Cup title, which would secure spots in both the 2026 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup and the 2028 FIFA Women’s Club World Cup.
Coach Juan Carlos Amoros has faced injuries, including a season-ending ACL injury to defender Tiana Davidson. The team is hopeful that USWNT midfielder Rose Lovell will return from ankle surgery soon.
Viewing Information
- Date: Saturday, June 7
- Time: 1 PM ET
- Location: Sports Illustrated Stadium
- TV: CBS | Live Stream: Paramount+
Previous Encounters
The two teams last met during their inaugural match last year in the NWSL X Liga MX Phemenyl Summer Cup final at Toyota Field, Texas, where Kansas City triumphed 2-0, lifting the trophy with a goal from Chawinga. They also faced each other twice in the 2024 NWSL regular season, each match ending in a 1-1 draw, with both teams making it to the playoffs before being ousted in the semi-finals.
Gotham’s Perspective
Following their CONCACAF W Champions Cup victory, Gotham is riding high. This accolade, alongside their 2023 NWSL Championship, sets them up for future competitions. Currently in ninth, they aim to re-establish their playoff contention with new momentum as the season approaches its midpoint. Coach Amoros acknowledges that while playing Gotham may come with challenges, his team intends to entertain fans and secure three points.
Kansas City’s Take
Navigating the top of the table can be tough, and head coach Vlatko Andonovski recognizes that facing Gotham will not be straightforward. He highlights their creativity and unpredictability, making for a unique challenge.
Predicted Lineups
Gotham FC: Anne Catlin Berger; Lily Real, Emily Sonnett, Jess Carter, Mandy Freeman; Jaelin Howell, Taryn Torres, Geyse; Sarah Schupansky, Midge Purce, Esther Gonzalez
Kansas City Current: Lorena; Hailee Mace, Kayla Sharples, Elizabeth Ball, Izzy Rodriguez; Vanessa Dibernardo, Lo’eau Labonta, Claire Hutton; Hailey Hopkins, Temwa Chawinga, Bia Zaneratto
Players to Watch
Sarah Schupansky, Gotham FC: This rookie forward has emerged as a crucial player despite early-season challenges, taking on significant responsibilities as she learns from experienced teammates, especially Rose Lovell, who is now returning to form.
Prediction
The recent break may have allowed injured players additional recovery time, but it might also affect game dynamics. Prediction: Gotham FC 2, Kansas City Current 1
Recent News
- Gotham FC wins the first CONCACAF W Champions Cup.
- Rose Lovell nearing a return to the NWSL.
- Preview of NWSL Week 11 with analysts.
Additional Coverage
Catch CBS Sports Golazo Network for in-depth soccer coverage, including daily shows, podcasts, and live events.
Fan Take
This match has significant implications for both teams, as their performance could bolster playoff hopes and set the stage for future successful campaigns. Such pivotal games only heighten the excitement of the NWSL and its growing followership among soccer enthusiasts.
