Gotham Triumphs Over Washington Spirit in NWSL Championship

omidbasir- For the second consecutive year, the Washington Spirit fell short in the NWSL Championship, succumbing to a decisive moment in what was a defensive struggle. Last season, Orlando thwarted their title aspirations with two late goals; this time, Gotham secured victory with an 80th-minute breakthrough following a series of unfortunate events for the Spirit.

Entering the final, the Spirit appeared well-prepared: Rodman had returned from injury, Croix Bethune showcased her dynamic skills, and Tara McKeown, fresh off winning Defender of the Year, anchored the back line. However, the team struggled to find its usual attacking rhythm, and a miscommunication led to Gotham’s decisive goal.

“We had a hard time maintaining possession and being patient in the final third,” Rodman remarked after the game, acknowledging her subpar performance.

“As much as I don’t want to admit it, I still don’t feel like I was my full self tonight, which is disappointing. I’ve now experienced two finals without feeling at my best, and it’s upsetting. I tried to contribute as much as possible, but I definitely underperformed.”

Following the goal, Washington found it challenging to muster urgency. Despite late-game substitutions aimed at injecting energy, Gotham expertly managed the closing moments to secure the win. Spirit coach Adrian Gonzalez reflected on his late substitution of Hal Hershfelt, recognizing that it may have been executed better.

“It obviously took more time than we anticipated, but a player like her always wants to be on the field, especially in a final. We need to learn from this experience. She wanted to be with her teammates, and that’s commendable,” he explained.

This loss stings particularly for the Spirit, who believed this was their year after last season’s narrow miss. Fans have speculated whether this could be Rodman’s final match with the club amid reports of overseas interest. However, Rodman insisted that no decisions had been made regarding her future.

“As I’ve always said, we are sisters forever,” she affirmed.

The Spirit possesses a deep roster, including players like Gift Monday and Aubrey Kingsbury. The question now is whether they will reassess their current lineup or continue to build on their existing core.

Throughout championship week, speculation surrounded Rodman’s potential departure. NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman expressed the league’s commitment to retaining her, while Rodman maintained her stance, stating, “I’ve made no decisions.”

After the match, when asked if the outcome might affect her choice, Rodman confidently remarked, “Every team loses.”

Rumors have linked Rodman to a possible move to Europe, a transition that could be difficult for Washington to counter, particularly with the WSL operating without a salary cap. There have also been speculations about a potential move within D.C., with the USL’s D.C. Power emerging as an alternative destination.

It has been a tumultuous season for Rodman, marred by injuries, yet her contributions when fit have been significant. Even her brief appearance in the semifinal invigorated the Spirit’s energy.

Throughout the week – from the NWSL Awards to training sessions – Rodman maintained a positive demeanor, fully engaged with her teammates. However, with her contract expiring this offseason, crucial decisions loom ahead.

Meanwhile, Gotham’s journey to the championship was marked by resilience and determination. Emily Sonnett acknowledged the team’s underperformance during the regular season, stating, “Making the playoffs was a crucial reset moment for us.”

Entering as the eighth seed, Gotham harbored quiet confidence and managed to eliminate two of the league’s top teams, eventually earning their second NWSL Championship appearance in three years. The late-season addition of Jaedyn Shaw proved instrumental, complemented by the return of Rose Lavelle and significant contributions from rookies.

Head coach Juan Carlos Amorós has now led Gotham to two titles, underscoring the high standards he has established for the team.

“We worked tirelessly for this moment. Winning the championship is only realized when the referee blows the final whistle,” he stated.

Lavelle’s impact cannot be understated, having finally secured an NWSL Championship after years of near misses. Her decisive goal not only sealed Gotham’s triumph but also earned her MVP honors.

After enduring more than a year of rehabilitation from ankle surgery, Lavelle quickly reestablished herself within both Gotham and the U.S. women’s national team. Her return injected creativity and technical prowess into the squad, which proved crucial in the championship.

Lavelle, who joined Gotham in 2024, has quickly become integral to the team’s success, often highlighting the collective effort behind their postseason accomplishments.

“We have such a special group, and I’m thrilled to win this with them,” she expressed.

With an established core led by Lavelle, the future looks promising for Gotham FC in the NWSL.