NFL
By: LaGrace Parker
NJ/NY Gotham FC earned a 1–0 semifinal win over the Orlando Pride at Inter&Co Stadium. With strong defense, steady play, and a late set-piece goal, they advanced to the 2025 NWSL Championship.
Gotham came in as the No. 8 seed and focused on structure instead of controlling possession. Orlando had more of the ball and pressed early, but Gotham’s defense stayed tight, making the Pride settle for tough shots and few clear chances.
The key moment came in the 90+7′ when Jaedyn Shaw scored from a free kick just outside the box. Her curling shot bounced in the six-yard area and got past goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse, putting Gotham ahead after a close, tactical game.
Orlando almost tied the game two minutes later with a header from a late free kick, but Ann-Katrin Berger made a crucial save to keep the shutout and secure the win.
Looking at the game, Gotham showed several key strengths:
- Defensive Organization: Gotham’s defense and midfield worked together to block Orlando’s usual routes through Marta and Barbra Banda, pushing them to attack from the wings, where they were less dangerous.
- Set Piece Execution: Gotham created their best chances from set pieces and scored the winning goal from one of them.
- Game Management: Even though Orlando had more possession, Gotham kept turnovers low in the middle and didn’t leave open spaces for Orlando to use.
- Goalkeeping Impact: Berger’s late save was crucial, as it stopped a close-range shot that was likely to result in a goal according to expected-goals (xG) statistics.
With this win, Gotham moves on to their second NWSL Championship in three years. They will face the Washington Spirit in the final on November 22 in San Jose.
Game Highlights
- 90+7’ — Jaedyn Shaw scores on a free kick from distance.
- 90+9’ — Berger makes a match-saving stop on Orlando’s set-piece header.
- Gotham hold the Pride scoreless despite extended defensive phases.
