Duran, Cook, Harper Lead Lineup Changes for Third-Place Match
Gotham FC is gearing up for a decisive third-place match against Moroccan club ASFAR in the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup. The game is set to take place at Arsenal Stadium on Sunday, with kickoff scheduled for 2:45 p.m. GMT (9:45 a.m. ET). Fans can catch the live stream for free on the CBS Sports Golazo Network.
Lineup Changes for Gotham FC
Significant lineup changes mark the team’s approach as they aim for a bronze medal. Second-year players Kayla Duran, Sofia Cook, and Khyah Harper are making vital contributions in this match.
- Kayla Duran: This will be her sixth start since August. Duran strengthens the defense and is paired with experienced players like Emily Sonnett and Mandy Freeman.
- Sofia Cook: She steps into the midfield to replace Rose Lavelle, who is currently in concussion protocol.
- Khyah Harper: Replacing Gabi Portilho, Harper is looking to make an impact alongside established forwards Midge Purce and Jaedyn Shaw.
Player Statistics and Background
Mandy Freeman recently returned to the starting lineup and has played a significant role in the team’s defense. She has reached 91 regular season starts, tying her for the second-most in Gotham history. Jaedyn Shaw, meanwhile, has been a standout performer, leading all players in the semifinal against Corinthians with five shots on goal.
- Jaelin Howell: Contributed significantly in the 2025 NWSL regular season with five goals and assists, amassing 2,246 minutes played.
- Ann-Katrin Berger: Starting in goal again, following her season debut earlier this year, she is crucial for the team’s defensive strategy.
Substitutes and Injuries
The substitutes for this match include goalkeepers Ryan Campbell, Shelby Hogan, and Teagan Wy, as well as several defenders and midfielders. Striker Esther González remains on parental leave, while Tierna Davidson and Taryn Torres are sidelined due to season-ending injuries.
Gotham FC’s Lineup vs. ASFAR
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Ann-Katrin Berger |
| Defender | Mandy Freeman |
| Defender | Emily Sonnett |
| Defender | Kayla Duran |
| Defender | Lilly Reale |
| Midfielder | Jaelin Howell |
| Midfielder | Savannah McCaskill |
| Midfielder | Sofia Cook |
| Forward | Midge Purce |
| Forward | Jaedyn Shaw |
| Forward | Khyah Harper |
With these lineup changes and the determination to secure a bronze medal, Gotham FC looks forward to a thrilling encounter against ASFAR. Fans eagerly anticipate the team’s performance in this pivotal match.
