Overview
The Washington Spirit will clash with Gotham FC in the NWSL Championship set for San Jose. With each team eager to seize their second league title, fans are particularly curious about Trinity Rodman’s availability.
Team Path to the Championship
The Spirit, seeded second, have advanced through the playoffs with considerable favor. Conversely, Gotham, as the eighth seed, has shocked many by eliminating the top-seeded Kansas City Current and last year’s champions, Orlando Pride. Although Gotham seeks to defy odds, they bring a robust roster featuring MVP nominee Esther Gonzalez.
Player Availability
Attention is focused on whether Trinity Rodman, recently recovering from an MCL sprain, can participate. She made a brief comeback during the Spirit’s victorious match against the Thorns but her participation on the roster appears ambiguous without being on the official injury list. Coach Adrian Gonzalez confirmed her availability and hinted that if there ever was a game for her to return, it would be this championship one.
Championship Details
- Date: Saturday, November 22
- Time: 8:19 PM ET
- Location: PayPal Park — San Jose, California
- Broadcast: CBS | Stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Washington Spirit +130; Draw +210; Gotham FC +190
Projected Lineups
Washington Spirit: Aubrey Kingsbury, Rosemonde Kouassi, Esme Morgan, Rebeca Bernal, Tara McKeown, Kate Weisner, Hal Hershfelt, Leicy Santos, Croix Bethune, Trinity Rodman, Gift Monday
Gotham FC: Ann-Katrin Berger, Bruninha, Emily Sonnett, Jess Carter, Lily Reale, Jaelin Howell, Jaedyn Shaw, Rose Lavelle, Gabi Portillo, Midge Purce, Esther Gonzalez
Prediction
The championship is anticipated to be closely contested, with the outcome hinging on standout performances from players like Jaedyn Shaw or Trinity Rodman. My prediction leans towards a win for Gotham FC: 2-1 after extra time.
