Gotham FC impose their style and defeat San Diego Wave 2–0 at Snapdragon Stadium

San Diego, California September 2, 2025 (Photo: ScoreandoMx)

First Half: scoreless balance

The match began with Wave lining up in a 4-2-3-1, aiming to control the midfield and build patiently from the back, while Gotham stuck to their classic 4-3-3, pressing high and recovering quickly after losing possession.

During the first 45 minutes, possession was nearly even (50%-50%), but it was the visitors who created the clearer opportunities, with more shots on target and more effective pressure beyond midfield. The Wave goalkeeper produced key saves to keep the score level at halftime.

For San Diego, standout player #6 Hanna Lundkvist was vital in ball recovery and distribution down the right flank. Her vision and control allowed Wave to withstand Gotham’s pressing and maintain balance in what was otherwise a tightly contested half.

Second Half: Gotham makes the difference

After the break, Gotham displayed greater attacking depth. In the 70th minute, a well-worked team move ended with a goal from Bruninha Freeman, finally breaking through the Wave’s resistance and making it 1–0.

San Diego tried to respond with offensive adjustments, even finding the net once, though the goal was ruled out for offside. Despite their efforts, Gotham’s relentless high press continued to disrupt every attempt at building from the back.

In the closing stages, the visitors struck again. In the 84th minute, Giselle Ferreira sealed the match with the 2–0 final score, capitalizing on a defensive lapse and finishing powerfully inside the box.