The National Women’s Soccer League has returned to action as the Kansas City Current and Gotham FC face off in the opening match of the 2026 Challenge Cup, marking the league’s first competitive game since May 31st.
Last season, Gotham FC eliminated Kansas City in the NWSL playoffs, ending the Current’s campaign in the quarterfinals. Now, the reigning NWSL Shield winners are eager for redemption against the defending champions. “This kind of brings it back a little more to the playoffs,” said Kansas City midfielder Lo’eau Labonta. “So absolutely we want to get that win.”
Adding to the excitement, Columbus will make its NWSL debut in this tournament, just two months after being awarded an expansion franchise slated to begin play in 2028. The arrival of professional women’s soccer in Ohio’s capital has generated significant enthusiasm.
Tierna Davidson, defender for Gotham FC and the United States Women’s National Team, highlighted the city’s potential for strong support: “I don’t think that there’s any doubt that the team here is going to have a fantastic fan base. It’s really just getting them excited for women’s soccer.”
Echoing that sentiment, Current defender and Ohio State University alumna Izzy Rodriguez noted the region’s passion for sports: “It’s a sports town in general. People get hype around their sports here.”
How to Watch Gotham vs Current in the NWSL Challenge Cup
The kickoff for the 2026 NWSL Challenge Cup is scheduled for 8 PM ET tonight, with live coverage available on Prime.