Gotham FC Faces Orlando Pride in Key NWSL Clash

HARRISON, N.J. — The NJ/NY Gotham FC will host the Orlando Pride on Sunday afternoon in a highly anticipated match following two contrasting starts to the 2025 National Women’s Soccer League season.

Both teams are looking to secure their first victory of the season, with kick-off scheduled for 5:00 PM EDT at the Sports Illustrated Stadium. Gotham aims to rebound from a 1-1 draw against the Seattle Reign in their opening match, while Orlando Pride comes off a commanding 6-0 triumph over the Chicago Stars.

Gotham’s formidable midfielder Gabi Portilho netted their equalizer in the match against Seattle, showcasing her potential to lead the team. After a successful 2024 season that saw Gotham finish third in the standings, head coach Seb Hines will want to use the home advantage to lift the team’s morale.

“We’re looking for our first win, and we believe we have the capability to play competitively,” said Hines during a pre-match press conference. “Orlando is a strong side, but we are ready to take them on in front of our fans.”

In contrast, the Pride have maintained their championship form from the previous season. Last year, they finished at the top of the standings and secured the title, defeating the Washington Spirit 1-0 in the final. This season’s opener saw Barbra Banda, the reigning Championship MVP, score twice, alongside significant contributions from teammates Haley McCutcheon and Ally Watt.

“It was great to start the season with a win,” Banda stated. “We are excited for this game against Gotham, and we want to keep our momentum going.”

Historically, Gotham has had the upper hand in their past encounters, winning five out of the last ten matches against the Pride, who have tallied two victories, with three matches ending in draws.

The two teams last met in October 2024, where Gotham emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline. However, Gotham faces the challenge of fielding a new lineup, with several key players from last season’s match having departed.

“We understand the weight of this game,” said Gotham defender Erin Stevens. “It’s about building chemistry with our new players and making a statement on our home turf.”

Fans can watch the match on ESPN2 and stream it through various platforms, including ESPN+ and FuboTV. As the teams prepare for battle, the focus remains on securing their first three points of the season.

The match will serve not only as a showcase of skill but also as an early indicator of which team might be in contention for the championship as the season progresses.