NWSL 2025 Final: Washington Spirit Set to Compete Against Gotham FC

Post by : Mara Rahim

Anticipation builds for the 2025 NWSL Championship as Washington Spirit gears up to challenge Gotham FC this Saturday at PayPal Park, San Jose, California, kicking off at 8 p.m. local time. This final encapsulates a contrasting journey for both teams; Washington Spirit seeks redemption after last year’s heartache, while Gotham aims to solidify their spot as playoff dark horses.

For Spirit's forward Gift Monday, this match holds profound significance. Amid her personal loss—her father, who was also her coach—she has been instrumental in driving the Spirit to this stage. Monday reflected, “I think of him constantly. If he were here, I’d have brought him along, and he would have had the best seat in the house for this Final.” The memory of her father serves as a motivating force, especially after she dedicated her quarterfinal goal to him upon returning from Nigeria following his funeral.

Monday's remarkable journey began when she joined Washington Spirit from UD Tenerife in Spain this March. Quickly acclimating to the league's dynamics, she is focused on contributing to the team's success. “We’ve earned our place in the Final through hard work; it’s not merely by chance or luck,” she stated.

Team veteran and goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury affirms this lineup is the strongest she has played with. The Spirit has navigated myriad obstacles this season, including injuries, absences due to pregnancy, and a midseason coaching shift when Jonatan Giráldez departed for OL Lyonnes in France. Defender Tara McKeown, named NWSL Defender of the Year, shared, “There were moments with 14 players on the injury list, yet everyone stepped up to pull through these challenges.”

Washington soared in the latter part of the season, wrapping up with a 14-game unbeaten streak that included seven victories. In the semifinals, they triumphed over Portland Thorns 2-0 at Audi Field, thanks to a goal from Monday, assisted by Rosemonde Kouassi, alongside another from Croix Bethune. Head coach Adrián González praised his team, emphasizing, “The synergy and connections we cultivated are now evident, showcasing a remarkable collective effort.”

On the flip side, Gotham FC, who ended the regular season in eighth place, has become an unexpected story by toppling teams like Kansas City Current and Orlando Pride during the playoffs. Under the guidance of coach Juan Carlos Amorós, they boast talents including Ann-Katrin Berger and Emily Sonnett, while also celebrating their recent CONCACAF W Championship win.

The 44th encounter between the Spirit and Gotham marks their longstanding rivalry, with Washington struggling in their previous three clashes this season. Monday admitted, “Gotham has consistently challenged us. Playing against them has been tough, but I’m eager to see my growth since our last matchup.”

Key player Trinity Rodman remains dedicated to winning despite contract speculations and injury hurdles. Fans are coming together across the D.C. area in watch parties, rallying behind their team.

As both teams prepare for what promises to be an intense and emotional showdown, Washington Spirit aims to rewrite last year's ending, while Gotham looks to cap off their underdog narrative with a memorable victory.