Gotham FC’s Bruninha Returns for Match Against Portland Thorns

PORTLAND, Oregon — Brazilian international Bruninha is back in Gotham FC’s starting lineup for their match against Portland Thorns FC on Sunday night, making her second start of the 2025 NWSL season. The game is set to kick off at 10:30 p.m. ET, with MSG Networks broadcasting the game regionally.

Gotham FC, which boasts a record of 2-1-2 and eight points, aims for a win to strengthen its position for fourth place in the league standings. The team has not lost in its last ten road matches across all competitions and is currently 1-0-2 in away games this season.

Bruninha, who is making her 26th career start for Gotham, recently recorded her first assist of the season. She contributed to teammate Lilly Reale’s goal against North Carolina in their previous match. Over her tenure with Gotham FC, the fullback and winger has netted four goals and provided three assists.

The rest of the starting eleven remains unchanged after a dominant performance against Angel City, where Esther González scored twice and Geyse added another goal in a 4-0 victory. González, competing for the Golden Boot, has four goals so far this season, tying her with Washington’s Ashley Hatch.

On the wing opposite Bruninha, Gabi Portilho will also take to the field. Portilho scored Gotham’s first goal of the season and is making her fifth start. The midfield consists of Jaelin Howell, Sarah Schupansky, and Taryn Torres, with Howell and teammate Emily Sonnett being the only field players to participate in every minute this season.

Defensively, Reale combines with Jess Carter and captain Nealy Martin, while goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger is returning for her 28th start. After earning a clean sheet in her last match, Berger is looking to continue her strong performance against Portland.

Geyse and Midge Purce lead the substitutes’ bench, as they work towards full match fitness. Ella Stevens, who missed the last game due to injury, is also back in the lineup. The bench includes goalkeeper Michelle Betos and various defenders and midfielders ready to contribute if called upon.

Notable absences from the match will include midfielders Sofia Cook and Rose Lavelle, along with defenders Tierna Davidson and Mandy Freeman, all of whom were previously listed as out for today’s match.