BRADENTON, FL (February 17, 2023) – As Gotham FC nears the midpoint of preseason training camp, the club will host its first 90-minute match against an external opponent, when Gotham FC welcomes the Orlando Pride for a closed-door scrimmage at IMG Academy on Saturday, Feb. 18.

The match may be the first friendly of preseason camp. However, for first-year Gotham FC head coach Juan Carlos Amorós, the anticipation is high.

“When the games start, you begin to see which players are standing out against the others,” said Amorós. “This is a very competitive sport, and we have a lot of great players here. Games are the best opportunity to prove yourself.”

With a mix of veterans, young players, new signings, and NWSL champions, opportunities to continue building team chemistry and assessing individual and collective play will be a priority.

“These scrimmages are special opportunities because every player can play,” said the coach. “We’re going to give every player a chance so that we can make a fair judgment. Some players may be in different positions because it’s no secret that we have players at national team duty, and many of them are from our forward line.

“Of course, it’s not going to be perfect. It’s game one. But I’m looking forward to seeing where the team is in terms of understanding the concepts, and at the same time, being able to execute them on the pitch.”

Reflecting on the time at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Amorós has been pleased with every aspect of the game – from the players, to the training and coaching staffs, to the support of Gotham FC ownership and leadership.

“The leadership of the club has given us everything to make sure the coaches and the players are working in the best possible environment,” Amorós said of the facilities at IMG. “Being here has given everyone a chance to get to know each other better and in a great environment.”

He continued, “I’m very pleased with the players. The fitness level is very high. We are giving the players clear instruction on what is expected for us to grow as a group and individually. We want to be a team that is offensive, solid, aggressive, and versatile. The commitment and attitude from the entire group has been fantastic. I’m really looking forward to Saturday.”

Gotham FC has added 15-year-old Ashlyn Puerta as a U18 trialist. Puerta will be available to participate in the scrimmage.

The match featuring Gotham FC against the Orlando Pride on Saturday, Feb. 18 at 3 p.m. will be closed to the media and the public.