Gotham win 2-0, but Red Stars playoffs berth clinched for 8th time

With the NWSL season coming to an end every match continues to be of utmost importance as the final seeds are being determined for the 2024 NWSL playoffs. For the Red Stars it was a tall order as they faced the defending champions in Gotham F.C. in a match that was lopsided throughout. Even so, Mallory Swanson continued to show why she is such a threat in the counter attack, breaking away in the final third for chances that could have taken the wind out of the Gotham sails.

However, the performance was all Gotham as they simply dominated the possession with knifing runs by Williams up the wing, and composed play by Rose Lavelle. Ultimately, it was a penalty that opened the scoring proceedings also resulting in a red card being given to the Chicago Red Stars coach Lorne Donaldson.

For the Red Stars this is an 8th and second most in NWSL history playoffs berth, with a fierce competitive landscape featuring the undefeated Orlando Pride at the top of the bracket. For Gotham, a win featuring dominant possession, decisive final third execution, and great performances from Williams, Lavelle, and Esther becomes ever more timely as the season comes to a close and they begin a championship defense in the 2024 NWSL playoffs.