5 Reasons to Watch Gotham FC vs. Chicago Stars FC This Sunday | National Women’s Soccer League Official Site

1. Esther González Is on a Document-Breaking Tear

Gotham FC’s Golden Boot chief is making historical past in actual time. Esther González has scored seven objectives in her final 4 matches, together with three braces, solely ever finished by three different NWSL gamers earlier than—Christen Press (who did it twice), Sophia Smith, and Diana Ordóñez. She scored within the final matchup in opposition to Chicago and exhibits no indicators of slowing down.

2. Milestone Moments on the Horizon

Sunday might see historical past made on each side. Gotham’s Ann-Katrin Berger is only one win away from tying the membership file for goalkeeper victories—remarkably, in simply 30 appearances in comparison with Kailen Sheridan’s 80. Midge Purce additionally sits one aim away from passing Carli Lloyd for third on Gotham’s all-time scoring record, trailing Esther González who sits in second at 18 objectives. On the opposite aspect, Chicago’s Alyssa Naeher is chasing her sixtieth membership win and 450th save—each league firsts—and will turn out to be simply the second goalkeeper in NWSL historical past to achieve 50 profession shutouts. When you love watching greatness unfold, that is your match.

3. Brazilian Face-Off

This match brings aptitude, footwork, and hearth because of a blinding group of Brazilian internationals. Gotham’s trio of Bruninha, Geyse, and Gabi Portilho presents a dynamic mix of creativity, technical talent, and tempo. Portilho scored in her NWSL debut, whereas Geyse has added attacking chew since arriving from Manchester United on mortgage. On the opposite aspect, Chicago’s Ludmila is electrical, blazing quick and with an arsenal of enjoyable aim celebrations when she scores. With all 4 gamers able to producing highlight-reel moments, this Brazilian battle is one you received’t need to miss.

4. Ludmila + Jameese Joseph: Chicago’s Dynamic Duo

Chicago’s offense was firing on all cylinders in Week 3 because of the chemistry between Ludmila and rookie Jameese Joseph. Ludmila delivered a shocking brace—together with a enjoyable backflip celebration—whereas Joseph grew to become the primary participant this season to notch a number of assists in a single recreation. The pair is bringing vitality, unpredictability, and critical upside to the Stars’ entrance line. If their connection can click on this weekend, Gotham’s again line could have their arms full.

5. Rookie Watch: New Faces Already Making a Massive Affect

This rookie class isn’t messing round. Gotham’s Sarah Schupansky opened her NWSL account with a aim and an help final week in opposition to the Spirit, persevering with her run as certainly one of simply 4 rookies within the league to start out each recreation this season. Fellow Gotham first-year Lilly Reale—who scored her first professional aim in Week 4—was additionally named to the NWSL’s Finest XI of the Month for April, main all rookies in interceptions and open play crosses. With so many rising skills all throughout the league, and with every match week seeing a shocking rookie second, don’t be stunned if Sunday’s match produces one other breakout efficiency.

Kickoff is ready for Sunday, Might 4 on CBS at 1:00 PM ET. Don’t miss it!