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Gotham FC Approaches Pivotal UKG NWSL Challenge Cup Match vs. NC Courage
August 4, 2023

Gotham FC Approaches Pivotal UKG NWSL Challenge Cup Match vs. NC Courage

HARRISON, NJ(Aug. 4, 2023) – NJ/NY Gotham FC will host a crucial UKG NWSL Challenge Cup match this Saturday, Aug. 5 against the North Carolina Courage at Red Bull Arena (7:30 p.m. ET, Paramount+).

The club has had an exciting week with the announcement of Gotham FC President Mary Wittenberg, a well-recognized and accomplished leader in the sports industry. Wittenberg will lead the business, collaborating with General Manager and Head of Soccer Operations Yael Averbuch West to establish an environment that inspires continued player success and makes Gotham FC a world-class club both on and off the field.

Additionally, Gotham FC midfielder Jenna Nighswonger was named NWSL Rookie of the Month presented by Allyfor her tremendous performances in the month of July.

With a 2-1-1 record in Challenge Cup competition, Gotham FC enters the weekend in second place with 7 points (2-1-1) and has a match in hand on first-place North Carolina (11 points, 3-0-2). A victory on Saturday would propel Gotham FC closer to the semifinals, with a game on Wednesday.

Saturday's game marks the third meeting this season between Gotham FC and the Courage. In their most recent encounter on May 3, the teams battled to a draw, with each side scoring a goal. However, in their previous match on April 22, Gotham FC emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, thanks to a goal from U.S. Women’s National Team forward Lynn Williams.

In the club’s last Challenge Cup game on July 28, Gotham FC fell 4-2 to the Washington Spirit after setting an early tone with goals by forward Midge Purce, who scored her first goal after recovering from an injury, and rookie Jenna Nighswonger for a first-half lead.

Gotham FC will next play its sixth and final group match in the Challenge Cup on Aug. 9 at Red Bull Arena against the Orlando Pride. The match will serve as the rescheduled meeting from the postponed head-to-head on June 7.

The 2023 UKG NWSL Challenge Cup tournament kicked off on April 19, and its matches are scheduled concurrently with the league’s regular season. The tournament concludes in September with teams competing for the first-ever million-dollar prize pool.