Chicago Red Stars vs. NJ/NY Gotham FC

Bridgeview, Illinois

– The 2021 NWSL playoffs kicked off on Sunday as the Chicago Red Stars faced NJ/NY Gotham FC at SeatGeek Stadium with the hosts eliminating the visitors after a 1-0 win. The match remained a nervy affair right from kick-off as both sides tested one another in the midfield vying for control of the match. Kealia Watt and Mallory Pugh were attempting to find the breakthrough for the hosts while the likes of Carli Lloyd, Margaret Purce and Ifeoma Onumonu led things down at the other end. Over time, Chicago were willing to sit back and let Gotham maintain possession of the ball. Despite a handful of attacking waves, neither side could find a breakthrough after the first 45 minutes. Coming out after half-time, the teams ramped up their energy calling both goalkeepers into action. Chicago, however, were the more threatening side. The opener would come right at the hour mark when Sarah Woldmoe picked up the ball in the middle of the park and teed up Pugh in the box. Her curling effort was no match for Kailen Sheridan. With 30 minutes left to play, Gotham pushed forward to try and find an equaliser making multiple substitutions in the process. Yet unified defending from the hosts gave the visitors little room to exploit. Despite a few late runs into the box, nobody could step up as the hero for the visitors and the clock ran out seeing things end 1-0. With the result, Chicago Red Stars now move on to the semifinals and will take on Portland Thorns FC on November 14.