Defending NWSL champions Gotham FC have learned the date for their opening match of the 2026 NWSL Playoffs.
The Bats are confirmed to open their title defense on Sunday, November 8 at Sports Illustrated Stadium with their quarterfinal match kicking off at either 12:30 or 3 p.m. Eastern Time.
First-round matchups and kickoff times will be finalized this Sunday once the last set of regular-season matches conclude on Decision Day. All NWSL matches for the final regular-season matchweek are scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday.
Gotham currently hold the top position in NWSL standings. A win or a draw against the visiting Utah Royals on Decision Day would clinch the NWSL Shield and the No. 1 playoff seed for the Bats — as would a loss or draw by San Diego Wave FC in their visit to Bay FC.
Once the first-round matchups are set, ABC and ESPN Deportes will carry the national broadcast of Gotham’s opening round game. Streaming will be available for ESPN App unlimited subscribers.
Gotham FC Look to Repeat as NWSL Champions
If Gotham is able to defeat their first-round opponent, they will host the semifinals given their guaranteed top-two regular-season NWSL finish.
The club’s supporters are hoping for a repeat trip to the NWSL Championship, which will be held on November 21 at Washington’s Audi Field.
If you enjoyed this story, please consider supporting independent, local soccer journalism by buying me a coffee.
Contributions made through Buy Me a Coffee help support the time, travel and resources that go into bringing you on-the-ground coverage, reporting and original stories — without paywalls.
More Gotham FC Coverage
Enjoyed this story? Follow us for the latest updates! | Bluesky | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Leave a Reply