Preview, Keys, and Predictions for the NWSL Championship Match between OL Reign and Gotham FC
The NWSL Championship game is shaping up to be a historic and intense battle between two talented teams. The retirement of two soccer legends, Ali Krieger and Megan Rapinoe, adds an emotional aspect to the game. The individual profiles of key players, and the likely impact they’ll have on the game, make for an exciting buildup.
On November 10, 2023, two days before the highly anticipated 2023 NWSL championship between NJ/NY Gotham FC and OL Reign, and shortly after the league announced a historic new media rights deal that includes a package of matches across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes, as well as ESPN+, both rosters and coaching staffs met with journalists for a media day on Thursday. During this event, we identified potential outcomes of Saturday’s NWSL championship, from key players to tactical matchups that could define the game, and then asked players and coaches for their viewpoints. The stars, Ali Krieger and Megan Rapinoe, will play their final games and both commented on their history. There have been rumors of how players could perform and impact how the teams will play in the final game. Rose Lavelle’s impact on the OL Reign in the semifinals was also discussed, and analysis was given on her role in the forthcoming championship game. The contributions to their respective teams from Lynn Williams and Jess Fishlock were also expressed as were thoughts on the goalkeepers, Mandy Haught and Claudia Dickey. These discussions gave insight into the potential performance of teams and players during the championship game.
