Gotham FC make history by advancing to the Summer Cup final

NJ/NY Gotham FC made history by advancing to the inaugural final of the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup after beating Angel City FC 1-0 on Tuesday. Midfielder Delanie Sheehan was the hero of the night, scoring the decisive goal that took the club to the long-awaited final. The game at CPKC Stadium was a real test of nerves and skill, but Gotham FC proved that they are more than ready for big challenges.

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In the first 20 minutes, both teams tried to find their rhythm, with both looking to keep possession and build plays from the back. It was a cautious start, with few clear chances on goal. However, Gotham FC began to show their superiority, keeping the ball at their feet and pressing Angel City FC on their own pitch.

In the 30th minute, Gotham had their first big chance. Striker Taryn Torres played a brilliant move, faking a shot with her left foot, cutting back to her right, and then back to her left, leaving Angel City FC's defenders at a loss. She fired a powerful shot, but goalkeeper DiDi Haracic was alert and made a crucial save to keep the score level.

The first half ended goalless, but Gotham FC returned for the second half with a more aggressive attitude. In the 48th minute, defender Bruninha played a perfect pass to striker Yazmeen Ryan, who dribbled past her marker and passed the ball to Sheehan. Without wasting any time, Sheehan sent the ball into the back of the net, sealing Angel City FC's fate and putting Gotham FC ahead.

Goalkeeper Cassie Miller also had her moment to shine. When the ball fell to Angel City FC striker Messiah Bright in the penalty area, Bright unleashed a first-time shot. Miller, quick as a flash, came off her line and blocked the shot, ensuring that her team maintained their lead.

With this victory, Gotham FC is preparing for the grand final, which will take place on October 25 at Toyota Field in San Antonio, Texas. This will be Gotham FC's third NWSL final, having played in the Challenge Cup in 2021 and the NWSL Championship in 2023. They remain the only team not to concede a goal in this year's Summer Cup, an impressive record that demonstrates the solidity of their defense.

Delanie Sheehan, who scored her third career goal in all NWSL competitions, once again showed her importance in decisive games. Her performance was complemented by Yazmeen Ryan, who provided the assist for Sheehan's goal. Ryan continues to be a key player for Gotham FC, with her 10th career assist and a remarkable passing record, completing 27 of her 30 attempts.

Cassie Miller, meanwhile, recorded her third clean sheet in three games in the tournament, a feat that solidifies her position as one of the best goalkeepers in the league. Gotham FC's defense is also noteworthy, with Sam Hiatt leading the way with nine tackles, the most in the match.

Gotham FC's path to the final has been marked by consistent performances, and they are now one step away from winning the Summer Cup title. With the final approaching, the team is focused and ready to face any challenge that comes their way. Gotham FC have shown recently that they have the talent and determination needed to win. z.