Gotham FC advanced to the NWSL semifinals on Sunday after a narrow victory over Seattle Reign FC in the league’s quarterfinal match at Seattle’s SI Stadium. The win, described by observers as a “sneak‑past,” moved Gotham into the next round of the postseason.
Both teams and commentators noted that the match was marred by the condition of the playing surface. Players from both clubs repeatedly referred to the pitch as “atrocious,” saying the uneven, deteriorated turf hindered normal play and contributed to a generally ugly contest.
Despite the sub‑standard field, Gotham managed to secure the result, edging Seattle by the smallest of margins. The exact score was not disclosed in the source material, but the description of a “sneak‑past” implies a closely contested game decided by a single goal or a late‑stage breakthrough.
The incident adds to ongoing concerns about stadium maintenance in the National Women’s Soccer League, where quality playing surfaces are considered essential for player safety and the integrity of competition. Both clubs expressed disappointment with the venue’s condition, underscoring the need for improvements before future playoff matches.
<small>Source: ESPN — read the original story there.</small>