The 2025 National Women’s Soccer League championship will be decided Saturday night in a highly anticipated showdown between New York’s Gotham FC and the Washington Spirit. In a sold-out match at San Jose’s PayPal Park, stars like Gotham’s Esther González and the Spirit’s Trinity Rodman will battle for the title before a crowd of approximately 18,000 fans.
The championship pits two familiar rivals against each other in what has been the league’s most-played matchup this season. The game serves as a capstone to a period of remarkable growth for the NWSL, which reported a 22% year-over-year increase in viewership for its 2025 regular season.
Championship Preview: A Clash of Styles
Analysts are framing the final as a classic clash of styles. According to CBS Sports NWSL lead analyst Lori Lindsey, a former Women’s National Team member, the game will come down to “offense versus defense.” Lindsey highlighted the Washington Spirit’s potent, multi-faceted attack against Gotham FC’s experienced and formidable defense, anchored by goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger.
The potential for a dramatic finish is high. “This is going to be a nail-biter,” said NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman, noting that five of the six playoff games this season were decided by penalty kicks, extra time, or in the final minute. U.S. soccer legend Brandi Chastain agreed, telling “CBS Mornings” that while players must stay focused, “we love those dramatic moments… as fans.”
Pre-Game Ceremony and Broadcast Details
Country music star Mickey Guyton will perform the national anthem to kick off the event. Guyton, who previously sang at Super Bowl LVI, said she intends to deliver a traditional rendition of the song. “When it comes to women and women’s sports, I’m always going to show up for us,” she told “CBS Mornings.”
The championship match is scheduled for Saturday at 8 p.m. ET. Viewers can watch the live broadcast on CBS or stream the game on Paramount+.
