Gotham FC Secures Playoff Spot with Late Equalizer Against Racing Louisville
Associated Press
Date: October 19, 2025 – 09:15 PM ET
In a thrilling encounter in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), Gotham FC salvaged a 2-2 draw against Racing Louisville on Sunday, with Rose Lavelle netting the equalizer in the 85th minute. The result guaranteed Gotham a playoff berth, marking the third consecutive year they will compete in the postseason.
Gotham’s current record stands at 9 wins, 7 draws, and 9 losses. One match remains in the regular season as they aim to finish strong. Meanwhile, Portland Thorns also secured a playoff spot on the same day, defeating Angel City 1-0.
The match in New Jersey began with Gotham taking the lead early. Jaelin Howell scored her fourth goal of the season with a long-range shot just 15 minutes in. However, Racing’s Janine Sonis equalized in the 29th minute with a deflected shot from close range, making it 1-1.
After halftime, Racing took control, going ahead 2-1 when rookie Sarah Weber converted from six yards out in the 65th minute. Lavelle, however, struck back, curling an impressive free kick into the net from 20 yards out to secure the draw.
Racing Louisville now ranks eighth in the standings, which is the final playoff position, but holds only a two-point lead over the ninth-place North Carolina Courage as the regular season winds down. Since joining the league in 2021, Louisville has yet to make a playoff appearance.
In the match between Portland Thorns and Angel City, Olivia Moultrie scored both goals for the Thorns, leading them to a 2-0 victory. This victory solidifies Portland’s playoff status for a record ninth consecutive season.
Angel City was already out of playoff contention before the match, with their last playoff appearance dating back to 2023. Moultrie’s first goal came in the 23rd minute, where she found the top corner from 21 yards away. She later converted a penalty in the 60th minute, following a foul on Reilyn Turner, to add her eighth goal of the season.
Veteran players Christen Press and Ali Riley made their final home appearances for Angel City, receiving warm tributes from the crowd as both prepare for retirement at the season’s conclusion.
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