Chicago Red Stars and Gotham FC battle it out in the Summer Cup

The Chicago Red Stars are about to face NJ/NY Gotham FC in the long-awaited opening group stage of the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup. This clash promises to be a real litmus test, especially considering the significant absences of key players due to preparations for the Summer Olympics. The last time these teams met, in May, Gotham FC emerged victorious with a late goal from Ella Stevens sealing a thrilling 2-1 win. Now, with the scenery changed, both teams are ready to show their best.

Follow MLS Multiplex on X (Twitter).

The Red Stars, known for their chemistry on the pitch and ability to create chances, go into the match with the mission of maintaining the momentum of the back-to-back victories that marked the end of the regular season. Despite the absence of stars like Alyssa Naeher and Mallory Swanson, the Chicago team has promising players who can make a difference. Penelope Hocking, Sam Staab and Ally Schlegel are some of the names that promise to shine in this competition. Gotham FC, the reigning NWSL champions, also face similar challenges, with several of their players in the national team. However, with talents such as Kelley O'Hara, Ella Stevens and Esther González, the east coast side are far from easy opponents. Stevens, in particular, has been one of the most consistent players of the season, and her performance will be crucial to Gotham's Summer Cup ambitions.

The match promises to be a showcase for lesser-known talents. Red Stars goalkeeper Mackenzie Wood has already shown that she can be a worthy replacement for Naeher, with solid performances during the regular season. Likewise, Ally Cook and Chardonnay Curran will have the chance to show their worth, possibly taking on more important roles in the team during the absence of the starters. The expectation is that the Red Stars will take the opportunity to rotate their squad, giving playing time to players who haven't featured as much so far. The chemistry and energy that these players bring off the bench can be decisive factors in a short tournament like the Summer Cup.

Gotham FC, meanwhile, have a favorable recent record against Chicago, winning the last three meetings between the teams. The team's ability to score early and maintain their lead will be a key aspect to watch. Six of Gotham's seven wins against the Red Stars have been by the score of 2-1, showing how effective they are in tight games. Ella Stevens' ability to contribute goals and assists, especially in away games, will be an important asset for the east coast side. In addition, Gotham FC have shown a tendency to win matches decided by one goal, which can be crucial in a competitive tournament like the Summer Cup.

With the tournament format bringing together all 14 NWSL clubs and six LIGA MX teams, the Summer Cup offers a unique platform for teams to test themselves against a variety of styles and tactics. Group D, which in addition to Red Stars and Gotham FC includes Washington Spirit and Chivas de Guadalajara, promises to be one of the most hotly contested. The absence of some of the league's best players could level the playing field, making every game unpredictable and exciting.

In terms of tactics, the Red Stars will have to find ways to compensate for the lack of their main international players. The team is expected to adopt a more collective approach, relying on the versatility of players like Curran, who can play in both midfield and defense. Quick adaptation and team cohesion will be crucial when facing a Gotham FC side that, despite the absences, remains one of the most organized and efficient in the league.

The Summer Cup is an excellent opportunity for new talents to stand out and for teams to adjust their strategies in preparation for the rest of the season. For fans, it's a chance to see how teams deal with adversity and how new players adapt to the high-stakes scenario. The rivalry between Red Stars and Gotham FC, already intense, promises to add another exciting chapter to its history.