Gotham FC’s Jaedyn Shaw Shines in Semifinal Victory Over Orlando Pride

ORLANDO, Fla. — In a thrilling semifinal match at Inter&Co Stadium, Gotham FC’s playmaker Jaedyn Shaw netted a dramatic goal in the seventh minute of stoppage time, securing a 1-0 victory over the defending NWSL champions, Orlando Pride. Remarkably, this goal came from Gotham’s only shot on target throughout the game.

As the lowest-seeded team in this year’s playoffs, Gotham FC is set to face the Washington Spirit in the NWSL Championship on Saturday at PayPal Park in San Jose, California.

In reflecting on her decisive free kick goal, Shaw expressed her preparation and dedication: “I just knew that I had prepared myself for that moment; I have been working tirelessly on my free kicks. I live for these moments.”

Shaw had previously showcased her talent in Gotham’s quarterfinal upset against the No. 1 seeded Kansas City Current, contributing with a goal and an assist. Her arrival at Gotham in September, following a record $1.25 million transfer from the North Carolina Courage, has proven pivotal for the team.

The loss marks the end of Orlando Pride’s quest for a consecutive championship after their NWSL Shield and Championship victories last season. Following the match, Pride forward Marta expressed her dissatisfaction with the referee’s decision to award the free kick leading to the goal, stating, “It was not a foul. We should lose the game anyway, but not this way.”

As she approaches her 40th birthday before the next NWSL season, Marta remains noncommittal about her future, having faced similar inquiries after winning her first NWSL title last year, eventually signing a new two-year contract in January. Following Sunday’s defeat, she plans to visit family in Brazil but emphasizes her enduring passion for the game: “I am not here to waste my time. I am still hungry. I still feel like I can do something for this team, for my teammates, for my staff. I care so much.”

Marta played a pivotal role in Orlando’s best opportunity during the first half, skillfully maneuvering through Gotham defenders before setting up Julie Doyle, whose cross was narrowly deflected, denying Jacquie Ovalle a clear scoring chance. Following Shaw’s goal, the Pride had a chance to equalize in the 100th minute, with Marta’s left-footed free kick headed by Oihane Hernández, but Gotham goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger made a stunning diving save.

Gotham FC’s pursuit of a second championship in three years hinges significantly on Shaw’s contributions. Head coach Juan Carlos Amoros noted the parallels between this team and the one that unexpectedly claimed the title in 2023: “We have everything to win, and that’s down to them. The difference maker is when individual talent cares about winning not only for themselves but for the person next to them.”

This season, Gotham FC has scored ten set-piece goals, tying with their upcoming finals opponent, Washington Spirit, for the most in the league, including the playoffs.