How did Gotham FC do in their 2025 preseason matches? | OneFootball

NJ/NY Gotham FC recently completed their scheduled preseason games this past weekend. The Bats could technically add another match in the next week since the NWSL season opener is not until March 15. Nevertheless, the team will continue to prepare for the 2025 campaign.

As such, Gotham finished their preseason with a 3-0-1 record, with the draw ending in a win via a penalty kick shootout. Truthfully, it is hard to decipher how they did since they did not play another NWSL team. However, the positive record is a good sign. At the same time, after the roster turnover, it will take a few games into the season to judge the team.

Looking at Gotham FC's preseason games

The Bats first started the preseason in Spain, and the team first played SK Brann, one of the top sides in Norway, and won 2-1. Esther González and Mak Whitham found the back of the net.

Then, Gotham FC played the second match in Spain against FC Nordsjælland, who plays in the top division in Denmark, the Elitedivisionen. They recently won the league in the 2023-2024 season.

In this game, the goal-scoring boots came out. The ladies won 5-3 thanks to goals from Esther, Whitham, Khyah Harper, and an own goal. Whitham, who is the youngest player, scored a brace. Fans should keep in mind though that the opposition might play in the top division in Denmark, but the league is considered semi-professional.

Afterward, Gotham FC had a small break between the next set of games that took place in Florida due to the international break. These fixtures were against USL Super League teams, with the NJ/NY side first taking on Fort Lauderdale United FC. The NWSL team won 2-1, thanks to goals from Esther and Jaelin Howell.

The final preseason match was on Sunday, and that was against Tampa Bay Sun FC. This was the one that ended in a 1-1 draw, with Gabi Portilho scoring Gotham's only goal. The Bats went on to win 4-2 in a penalty kick shootout. Ryan Campbell was clutch in the shootout, making two saves.

Notably, the rookies earned some meaningful minutes, especially the college signings. One cannot forget about Whitham, who scored three times in Spain. The 14-year-old might get some professional playing time this year after her impressive preseason. Of course, 2025 should be reserved for development and adjustment to the NWSL.

Moreover, Esther scored in three of the four games. One should expect the Spaniard to be one of the top scorers for the team.

With the international break over, Gotham FC will utilize the next two weeks to focus on developing chemistry with all of the new players while Juan Carlos Amorós must figure out who will be in the Starting XI. The defense is probably set in stone, but there is room to pick and choose in midfield and attack.