After a 1-0 loss against the Washington Spirit, OL Reign looks to end their East Coast tour on a higher note in their upcoming match against NJ/NY Gotham FC at Red Bull Arena. Meanwhile, Gotham looks to continue their winning streak back on home soil in New Jersey following their 2-1 season opener success against Angel City FC away at BMO Stadium. The two teams go head to head Saturday, April 1st at 7:30 PM EST.
In their last visit to Red Bull Arena in September of 2022, the Reign bested Gotham 1-0 after Jess Fishlock earned a penalty and Megan Rapinoe successfully converted. While the rather physical game was fairly evenly matched, it remains to be seen if that outcome offers any indicator of what is to come in the 2023 season as both rosters have seen substantial changes since.
Of those changes for Gotham, first round draft pick Jenna Nighswonger out of Florida State has the opportunity to be incredibly impactful. The midfielder with USYNT experience made her debut against Angel City FC when she was subbed in out of her natural position to replace veteran defender Ali Krieger. Despite playing in an entirely new role, Nighswonger showed just how influential she can be by constantly pushing up and helping the team to move forward as a unit.
Additionally, the return of Lynn Williams to the National Women’s Soccer League is sure to be a thorn in the side of any opponent set to face the New Jersey-based club. The forward acquired from the Kansas City Current during the 2023 NWSL Draft was ultimately responsible for Gotham’s win in California as she exhibited her ability to exploit open space with her nearly unmatchable pace.
However, it is questionable just how much space there will be to exploit when considering the defensive depth of Head Coach Laura Harvey’s side. The 2022 Shield Winners have a new addition of their own with former Washington Spirit defender Emily Sonnett coming in to play an uncertain position either in the midfield or on the backline. Regardless of her positioning, she offers a clear defensive presence wherever she plays along with potential insight into Gotham’s plan of attack as she goes against her USWNT teammates and former Spirit teammate Kelley O’Hara.
When it comes to goal scoring, Gotham will also have to face the attacking strength of some of the league’s biggest names, including Jordyn Huitema, Bethany Balcer, and Fishlock. Though recently acquired forward Elyse Bennett is certainly someone to keep an eye on, having tied for second most appearances on a roster that made it to the NWSL Championship last season. The former Kansas City player fought hard against the Spirit and found herself on the end of multiple big chances that she’ll be hungry to recreate and complete this weekend.
While the results of this game could go either way, it will certainly be a matchup to watch as top NWSL and international talent faceoff in their second game of the 2023 season. The game will be available for viewing in the United States on Paramount+ or NWSLsoccer.com for international viewing.
