NWSL semi-final scheduling crisis: Washington Spirit keep Audi Field; Gotham move to Icahn
The Washington Spirit secured Audi Field as their semi-final venue after a last-minute scheduling conflict forced a change from Northwest Stadium, home of the NFL’s Washington Commanders. The deal came after a Division III college football match between the Coast Guard Academy and Merchant Marine Academy was scheduled for the same time slot at Audi Field, a 1pm Saturday slot the NWSL could not shift.
The Spirit, who advanced with a 4-1 win over the Portland Thorns on Sunday, will now face the Utah Royals on 14 November at noon in their semi-final match, marking their first playoff game at the venue since it became their permanent home in 2023. Meanwhile, Gotham FC’s semi-final against the Kansas City Current has been moved to Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island due to pitch quality concerns at their usual venue, Sports Illustrated Stadium.
The New York-based club will host the match on Sunday at 3pm, just one day after MLS owners New York Red Bulls play a friendly at the stadium. Gotham’s quarter-final win over Seattle on Sunday revealed patchy and sandy conditions at Sports Illustrated Stadium, with captain Jess Fishlock describing the field as unplayable.
