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Exciting matchup between Washington Spirit and Gotham FC promises to ignite the NWSL Challenge Cup

By Arthur Fernandes

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 10: Paige Nielsen #14 of Angel City FC tackles to get the ball away from Ashley Hatch #3 of Washington Spirit during the NWSL game at Audi Field on June 10, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brad Smith/ISI Photos/Getty Images).
WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 10: Paige Nielsen #14 of Angel City FC tackles to get the ball away from Ashley Hatch #3 of Washington Spirit during the NWSL game at Audi Field on June 10, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brad Smith/ISI Photos/Getty Images). /
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The 2023 Challenge Cup is packed with thrilling games, and one of the most anticipated matchups is between Washington Spirit and Gotham FC. Both teams have displayed their strength in the championship, and the duel promises to be an exciting battle at Audi Field.

Washington Spirit’s forward, Ashley Hatch, has been a key player for her team this season, leading the squad with her accurate and dangerous shots on goal. With a total of 62 shots in her Challenge Cup career, Hatch is close to reaching Debinha, who holds the record of 70 shots. Despite her excellent offensive contributions, Hatch has yet to find the net in two out of the four games for Spirit in this year’s Challenge Cup, highlighting the pressure on her shoulders to score.

Meanwhile, Gotham FC has its own standout performers, with McCall Zerboni and Jenna Nighswonger shining in the victory over Orlando. Both players scored a goal and provided an assist, and it’s noteworthy that this was only the second time since 2015 that Gotham had two players achieving this feat in a single match. Kristie Mewis and Midge Purce also accomplished this against the Pride in 2022, showcasing Gotham FC’s ability to create offensive opportunities and finish them with precision.

WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 10: Ali Riley #5 of Angel City FC controls the ball during the NWSL game between Angel City FC and Washington Spirit at Audi Field on June 10, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brad Smith/ISI Photos/Getty Images).
WASHINGTON, DC – JUNE 10: Ali Riley #5 of Angel City FC controls the ball during the NWSL game between Angel City FC and Washington Spirit at Audi Field on June 10, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brad Smith/ISI Photos/Getty Images). /

The showdown between Washington Spirit and Gotham FC is even more intriguing due to their recent history. Spirit is coming off a 6-0 defeat against North Carolina, a result that marked the team’s largest margin of defeat in its history. Now, facing Gotham FC, Spirit will need to regroup and show their resilience to get back to winning ways.

Gotham FC is confident after securing an important victory over Orlando, overcoming an initial deficit to take home the three points. This away triumph also demonstrated the team’s ability to react, as they seek to build a successful season.

Furthermore, their head-to-head record in the Challenge Cup adds an extra dose of excitement to the game. They have already faced each other five times in the competition, with Gotham FC claiming a 1-0 victory in April. These encounters have always been marked by thrilling goals, many of them scored by players who are also shining in this year’s Women’s World Cup.

Fans can expect a fierce and thrilling duel, with both teams seeking to outperform each other and secure precious three points in the Challenge Cup. The passion, skill, and determination of the players on the field will undoubtedly provide an unmissable match for women’s soccer enthusiasts.

Fans in the United States can catch all the action on Paramount+, while international viewers can tune in to the game on NWSLSoccer.com. Get ready for an exciting afternoon of soccer, with the NWSL stars shining brightly at Audi Field.

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