Hogan Poised for Exciting NWSL Debut with Kansas City Team

Title: Shelby Hogan Set for Anticipated NWSL Debut as Gotham FC Faces Kansas City Current

Goalkeeper Shelby Hogan is poised for her much-anticipated NWSL debut with Gotham FC, starting against the Kansas City Current this afternoon at CPKC Stadium. This match marks Hogan’s entry into Gotham’s lineup in the absence of Ann-Katrin Berger, who is sidelined due to injury.

Key Players and Lineup Changes Highlight the Matchup

Hogan and forward Esther González are the two notable changes in Coach Juan Carlos Amorós’s formation since Gotham’s previous game, a 0-0 draw against the Seattle Reign. Esther González’s return to the starting lineup gives her the opportunity to match or surpass Kansas City’s Temwa Chawinga in the NWSL Golden Boot race. Currently, Chawinga leads with 14 goals this season, while González trails closely with 13.

Gotham FC’s Unbeaten Streak and Playoff Prospects

Gotham FC, boasting a commendable 11-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, seeks a decisive win to secure a playoff spot. The team stands at a record of 9-6-7 with 34 points. A draw could also potentially place them on the brink of qualification, depending on outcomes in other games.

Dynamic Forwards and Midfield Trio in Focus

Supporting González on the attack will be Midge Purce and Jaedyn Shaw. Both players have demonstrated their prowess this past month, contributing collectively to the team’s success. In midfield, the impressive trio of Rose Lavelle, Josefine Hasbo, and Jaelin Howell is set to make its fourth consecutive start, continuing their strong performance streak. Lavelle, recently named to the NWSL Team of the Month, has been a standout with three goals and two assists in recent matches.

Defensive Line and Substitutes Bolster Team Strategy

The defensive lineup features captain Mandy Freeman alongside Brazilian international Bruninha, European champion Jess Carter, and World Cup winner Emily Sonnett. This robust defense is expected to provide significant support to Hogan in goal.

The substitutes bench offers depth with goalkeeper Ryan Campbell, defenders Kayla Duran and Lilly Reale, midfielders Sofia Cook and Sarah Schupansky, and forwards Khyah Harper and Katie Stengel. Current injuries include Tierna Davidson, Taryn Torres, Geyse, Gabi Portilho, and Ella Stevens, in addition to Hogan’s predecessor, Ann-Katrin Berger. Meanwhile, Mak Whitham has departed to represent the U.S. Youth National Team in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Complete Gotham FC Lineup for the Match

For those eager to catch the match, the national broadcast will be available on ION, and a free live stream can be accessed via ionnwsl.com. Stay tuned as Gotham FC and Kansas City Current battle it out, with kickoff set for 5 p.m. ET.