The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as NJ/NY Gotham FC and Tigres UANL have punched their tickets to the inaugural Concacaf Women’s Champions Cup final, scheduled for Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Estadio Universitario in Monterrey, Mexico. Both teams earned their spots with commanding semifinal victories, showcasing skill, resilience, and tactical brilliance. This final not only promises a thrilling clash between two powerhouses but also carries massive stakes: the winner will secure a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup and the 2028 FIFA Women’s Club World Cup. Let’s dive into how Gotham and Tigres stormed their way to this historic moment and what fans can expect from this epic encounter.
Gotham FC’s Road to the Final
Gotham FC, representing the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), delivered a masterclass in their semifinal against Club América, winning 3-1 despite challenging windy and rainy conditions at Estadio Universitario. The Bats, as they’re affectionately known, wasted no time asserting dominance. Brazilian striker Geyse, who joined Gotham from Manchester United in March, opened the scoring in the 21st minute with a stunning volley off a corner from Sarah Schupansky. This was Geyse’s second goal for the team, signaling her growing influence.
The momentum continued as Midge Purce, returning from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, drew a foul in the box and converted the resulting penalty in the 30th minute. Just three minutes later, an own goal by América’s Jana Gutiérrez sealed Gotham’s commanding lead. Despite a response from América’s Irene Guerrero in the 38th minute, Gotham’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, held firm to secure the victory.
Gotham’s journey to the final has been remarkable. In the group stage, they went unbeaten (2-0-2), leading all teams with 21 goals, including a jaw-dropping 13-0 rout of Jamaican side Frazsiers Whip. Forward Esther González has been a standout, leading the NWSL Golden Boot race and contributing significantly in the tournament. However, Gotham’s recent domestic form has been shaky, with no goals in their last three NWSL matches, making this semifinal win a testament to their ability to rise to the occasion on the international stage.
Tigres UANL’s Dominant Display
On the other side, Liga MX Femenil giants Tigres UANL left no doubt about their pedigree in a 2-0 dismantling of NWSL’s Portland Thorns. Playing on their home turf at “El Volcán,” Tigres capitalized on their early chances, with 21-year-old Aaliyah Farmer striking in the 10th minute. The Thorns’ fate was sealed when goalkeeper Bella Bixby’s error allowed South African star Thembi Kgatlana to score in the 27th minute. Despite tactical substitutions by Portland, including Payton Linnehan and Kaitlyn Torpey, Tigres’ defense stood tall, ensuring a clean sheet and a spot in the final.
Tigres, the six-time Liga MX Femenil champions, topped Group A with a 3-1-0 record, highlighted by a thrilling 4-4 draw against Gotham in October 2024 at Red Bull Arena. That match showcased Tigres’ attacking prowess, with Ana Dias bagging a brace and Stephany Mayor and Jacqueline Ovalle also finding the net. Led by Spanish coach Mila Martínez and featuring World Cup champion Jenni Hermoso, Tigres have been a force, scoring 18 goals in four tournament matches. Playing at home with a passionate crowd behind them, they’ll be a formidable opponent.
A Rivalry Renewed
The final is a rematch of the group-stage thriller between Gotham and Tigres, which ended in a 4-4 draw. That game was a goal-fest, with Gotham’s McCall Zerboni, Esther González, and Delanie Sheehan matching Tigres’ firepower. The high-scoring affair proved both teams’ attacking capabilities and set the stage for a final where neither side is likely to back down. Gotham will rely on González’s clinical finishing and Purce’s dynamism, while Tigres will look to Hermoso, Dias, and Kgatlana to lead their charge.
What’s at Stake
Beyond the prestige of being crowned the first-ever Concacaf W Champions Cup champions, the winner will earn a historic opportunity to compete on the global stage. The 2026 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup and the 2028 FIFA Women’s Club World Cup represent the pinnacle of club football, and both Gotham and Tigres are hungry to cement their legacy. For Gotham, a victory would cap a remarkable turnaround after a tough domestic stretch, while Tigres aim to add an international title to their domestic dominance.
How to Watch
The final kicks off at 10 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 24, at Estadio Universitario. Fans can catch the action on ESPN+, Paramount+, and ESPN Deportes for Spanish-language coverage. The third-place match between Club América and Portland Thorns will precede the final at 7 p.m. ET, promising a full day of high-stakes women’s football.
Final Thoughts
This inaugural Concacaf W Champions Cup final is more than a game—it’s a celebration of the growing prominence of women’s club football in North America. Gotham FC brings NWSL grit and a multi-pronged attack, while Tigres UANL counters with Liga MX Femenil flair and home-field advantage. Expect a tactical battle, moments of individual brilliance, and a raucous atmosphere at El Volcán. Whether you’re rooting for the Bats or the Amazonas, one thing is certain: this final will be a historic moment for the sport.