Gotham FC Hosts Historic Game in NYC
On Wednesday night, a packed crowd of 42,175 filled Citi Field in Flushing to witness the NWSL’s inaugural game in New York City, where Gotham FC edged out Washington Spirit 1-0.
The match, dubbed the Queen’s Classic, featured defending champions Gotham FC facing off against Washington Spirit. This event marked the third NWSL game held at a Major League Baseball stadium over the last two years.
Notably, this game was the first women’s sporting event at Citi Field since its opening 17 years ago.
The turnout was the highest for a women’s sporting event in New York, beating the previous record of 28,143 set during the 2023 U.S. Open women’s singles final at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where Coco Gauff triumphed. Additionally, it became the second-largest crowd in NWSL history, following the 63,004 fans that attended a match at Empower Field in Denver earlier this year.
Amidst the celebrations on bobblehead night, Gotham midfielder Rose Lavelle initiated the party by scoring in the 37th minute, sending the ball over Spirits’ goalkeeper Sandy McIver. That goal turned out to be the decider, as Gotham’s defense held firm against Trinity Rodman and the Spirit, who were facing off once more after last year’s championship match.
However, this game was significant for reasons beyond just the score. It represented a fresh chapter for Gotham, which will transition from its home at Yurkak Field at Rutgers University to a new venue at Etihad Park, alongside New York City FC, set to open in 2028.
NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman shared her thoughts during halftime, noting that this evening wasn’t simply an isolated event. “It’s not a one-and-done,” she explained. “This is the start of a new relationship for this team in Queens.”
The night also highlighted the ongoing growth of the NWSL, particularly as it looks to harness the buzz surrounding the men’s FIFA World Cup, which concludes this weekend at MetLife Stadium.
In the second half, fans were treated to a special moment when striker Sam Kerr returned to Gotham. She previously played for the franchise when it was known as Sky Blue FC from 2015 to 2017 and still holds the NWSL record for most regular-season goals. The crowd erupted when the Olympian took to the field.
Outside Citi Field, excitement was palpable. Raisa, who leads a monthly knitting club at Manhattan’s Wilka’s Sports Bar—an establishment dedicated to women’s sports—organized a trip to cheer for Gotham after supporting the Liberty earlier this season. “It’s really fun,” she remarked. “I feel so happy walking around… It’s a safe and uplifting environment.”
And the celebrations aren’t stopping here. Gotham will host another game in the city this Saturday when the Seattle Reign visits Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island.
