Gotham FC faces Moroccan side ASFAR in the bronze medal match of the inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup at Arsenal Stadium. The game, scheduled for 2:45 p.m. GMT on February 1, 2026, offers Gotham a chance to end their tournament on a high note after a semifinal loss. Key players return to the lineup amid several absences due to injuries and leave.
Gotham FC is preparing for a crucial bronze medal showdown against ASFAR in the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup. The match at Arsenal Stadium kicks off at 2:45 p.m. GMT (9:45 a.m. ET), marking the team's inaugural appearance in the tournament.
In defense, Kayla Duran makes her sixth start since joining in August, partnering with Emily Sonnett, Mandy Freeman, and Lilly Reale. Freeman, a veteran, achieves 91 regular season starts in 2025, placing her second in club history. This backline will be vital against ASFAR's attack as Gotham seeks to secure a medal.
Offensively, Khyah Harper replaces Gabi Portilho on the wing, joining Midge Purce and Jaedyn Shaw. Shaw shone in the recent semifinal against Corinthians, recording five shots on goal. In midfield, Sofia Cook starts in place of Rose Lavelle, who is in concussion protocol, alongside Jaelin Howell and Savannah McCaskill. Howell contributed five goals and assists in the 2025 NWSL season, logging 2,246 minutes.
Ann-Katrin Berger returns in goal after her January 28 debut. The bench includes goalkeepers Ryan Campbell, Shelby Hogan, and Teagan Wy; defenders Jess Carter and Bruninha; midfielders Josefine Hasbo, Sarah Schupansky, and Talia Sommer; and forwards Jordynn Dudley, Andrea Kitahata, Gabi Portilho, Katie Stengel, and Mak Whitham.
Notable absences include striker Esther González on parental leave, and defenders Tierna Davidson and midfielder Taryn Torres, both sidelined by season-ending injuries. This encounter highlights the growing global reach of women's soccer, with Gotham aiming to cap their campaign positively.
