Gotham FC Hosts Bay FC at Sports Illustrated on Sat. June 21, 2025

On Saturday, June 21, 2025, the NJ/NY Gotham FC (Gotham FC) women’s soccer team will host Bay FC at 7:30 p.m. at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey. The highly anticipated National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) matchup is more than just a battle on the pitch — it’s also a community celebration of Juneteenth and Black excellence, promising an unforgettable evening filled with culture, music, and soccer spirit.

Gotham FC, originally founded in 2009 as Sky Blue FC, is one of the league’s longest-standing franchises. The team became a founding member of the NWSL when the league was launched in 2013. In 2021, the club rebranded as NJ/NY Gotham FC, marking a new era of growth and visibility. Gotham FC plays its home matches at Sports Illustrated Stadium, formerly Red Bull Arena, a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of 25,000, located in the Riverbend Section of Harrison, NJ.

Bay FC is one of the league’s newest expansion clubs. Founded in 2023 and based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Bay FC officially joined the NWSL for the 2024 season. The team plays its home games at PayPal Park in San Jose, California, which seats approximately 18,000 fans. Backed by a powerful ownership group and a strong West Coast fanbase, Bay FC has quickly become a competitive force in the league.

A Celebration of Juneteenth and Black Excellence

In honor of Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, Gotham FC is dedicating Saturday’s game to celebrating Black culture, contributions, and community. Fans are encouraged to arrive early for the Fan Fest, which kicks off at 5:00 p.m., and take part in an exciting lineup of pregame events and festivities:

• The GFC Express – For the convenience of fans, Gotham FC is offering a fan bus service with pickups in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Jersey City. The package includes both transportation and a match ticket, making the trip to Harrison easy and fun.
• Mini Pitch Challenge – Show off your footwork and challenge your friends before the main event.
• Shop Black-Owned Businesses – Support local entrepreneurs at Fan Fest by browsing a curated selection of Black-owned vendors.
• Gate Giveaway – The first 2,000 fans to arrive will receive a limited-edition tote bag designed by Nigerian-American artist Uzo Njoku.
• Drum Line Performance – Feel the rhythm and energy as a drum line pays tribute to African-American musical traditions in an electrifying pre-match show.
• Face Painting – Get into the Gotham spirit with crest-themed designs from on-site face painters.
• Sign Making Station – Create your own handmade sign to cheer on the team during the match.
•  Live Music – Enjoy funky beats from Atomic Funk at the CrossBar Stage starting at 5:45 p.m. 

Matchday Information

Sports Illustrated Stadium is easily accessible by public transit, with the Harrison PATH Station just steps away. For those driving, parking and other matchday policies are outlined in the club’s comprehensive Matchday Guide, which fans are encouraged to review ahead of their visit.

With Gotham FC eyeing a strong push in the NWSL standings and Bay FC looking to make a statement on the road, the match promises high-quality soccer. But just as importantly, the evening will honor the spirit of Juneteenth.

So whether you’re there for the game, the culture, or both, come early, stay loud, and be part of a night that celebrates unity, excellence, and the beautiful game.

Tickets and Info: Visit GothamFC.com for ticket purchases and the complete matchday experience guide.

Leave your thoughts about this article on our Community Discussion Board. If you haven't joined yet? Sign up now for free.