Washington Spirit and NJ/NY Gotham FC Set for NWSL Championship Showdown
By Joseph Lowery and Megan Swanick
Date: November 21, 2025
After a thrilling eight-month span filled with over 180 matches, the time has come to determine the 2025 NWSL champion this Saturday.
The championship clash will feature NJ/NY Gotham FC, the 2023 title holders who secured a playoff spot as the last seed this season, facing off against the Washington Spirit, who were runners-up to Orlando Pride in the previous year’s final.
In anticipation of the championship, ESPN analysts Joseph Lowery and Megan Swanick analyze key storylines—like the underdog narrative, and the implications of Trinity Rodman’s contract—alongside predictions for the final outcome.
– NWSL faces challenges to keep Trinity Rodman’s star power
– Riley Tiernan’s unexpected rise as a NWSL rookie standout
– NWSL GM Survey: Executives express worries on salary cap
Surprise Finalists: Analyzing This Season’s Underdogs
Lowery: I understand Jaedyn Shaw’s sentiment—claiming they’re not underdogs—yet I still find myself calling NJ/NY Gotham the unexpected contender as they advance from the NWSL’s final playoff spot to this championship. Though the differences in seeding between Gotham and Spirit are minimal, the absence of a fully fit Trinity Rodman could balance the playing field. However, the Spirit’s playoff performance has been stronger, positioning them as favorites.
Nonetheless, this isn’t unfamiliar territory for coach Juan Carlos Amorós. Having led a low-seeded team to victory two years ago, it’s likely Gotham remains unfazed by any assumptions about their rivals.
Swanick: I believe Gotham stands out in this regard, especially considering their playoff path. Despite their eighth-place finish, they had to face a formidable Kansas City Current squad in the playoffs, which was at home and had never lost there this season. Many—including myself—discounted their chances early on.
Yet, they achieved the improbable against Kansas City and then defeated the reigning champions, Orlando Pride. While their talent is undeniable, the odds seemed stacked against them initially.
Key Player: Who Might Be the Deciding Factor?
Lowery: Though Rosemonde Kouassi may not be the highest-profile player on either roster, her contributions have been vital for the Spirit in 2025. Excluding teammate Gift Monday, no one in the league with significant playing time has produced a higher expected goals plus expected assists average than Kouassi. Her ability to provide quality service and make crucial off-ball runs makes her a dynamic threat.
If Jaedyn Shaw advances down the left flank, Gotham may struggle defensively against Kouassi’s pace and precision.
Swanick: For Gotham, Ann-Katrin Berger is the standout to watch. As the previous Goalkeeper of the Year and a finalist again this year, Berger has made several vital saves for both club and country, including notable performances in the playoffs. She kept a critical clean sheet against Orlando, making key stops that secured Gotham’s place in the final. A strong display from Berger might be essential for Gotham to grasp their second championship title.
Storyline Potential: Which Winner Provides the Better Narrative?
Lowery: It’s hard to pass up the story of a team achieving two remarkable runs in three years. Gotham’s journey from the bottom of the playoff bracket to winning the cup was impressive; doing it again two years later would certainly add to their narrative. If they win, it would also generate more intrigue around Trinity Rodman’s potential departure.
Swanick: I agree with Joe. The allure of underdog stories is undeniable—especially with Gotham disputing their own underdog status. Shaw’s remarkable rise, particularly in the postseason, offers a captivating subplot to the underdog narrative.
Key Matchup: What On-Field Battle Are You Most Excited About?
Lowery: Both coaches, Juan Carlos Amorós and Adrián González, are keen on maintaining possession. Gotham dominated possession metrics during the regular season, and the Spirit were not far behind. The question remains: who will dictate the game flow at a neutral site?
Gotham may look to control the game to limit the Spirit’s chances, who have excelled in generating scoring opportunities. Which strategy will prevail?
Swanick: The matchup between Tara McKeown and Esther González is intriguing. McKeown, the NWSL’s Defender of the Year, faces González, who boasts a track record of scoring crucial goals. How effectively McKeown can neutralize González’s threat will significantly impact the final result.
Predictions for the Championship: Who Will Prevail?
Lowery: While the Spirit should remain cautious about becoming too aggressive in attack, I see them as the more in-form and formidable offensive team. If Rodman contributes off the bench, I predict a 2-1 victory for the Washington Spirit.
Swanick: Both teams possess strong defenses, but I foresee a competitive match with goals from each side, concluding in a tie. I anticipate penalties to decide the championship, where Gotham ultimately emerges victorious.
n
