RBA: Gotham FC Play Chicago Red Stars Sun. May 19, 2024

On Sunday, May 19, 2024, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) will see NJ/NY Gotham FC clash with the Chicago Red Stars at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey. The match is scheduled to start at 5 p.m., promising a thrilling evening of top-tier women’s soccer action. The game night is the Mental Health Awareness Night presented by RWJBarnabas Health.

Venue and Capacity

Red Bull Arena, known for its vibrant atmosphere and cutting-edge facilities, has a seating capacity of 25,000. This renowned stadium has hosted a busy slate of events, with 50 events in the 2022-23 season alone. These included Major League Soccer (MLS) games, NWSL matches, international games, and even a football game as part of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Brick City Kickoff Classic.

Event Breakdown at Red Bull Arena

The 2022-23 season at Red Bull Arena was packed with diverse events:

• New York Red Bulls Soccer Games: 22 home games.
• NJ/NY Gotham FC Soccer Games: 15 home games.
• International Soccer Games: 8 matches, including doubleheaders.
• NYC FC Home Game: 1 match, as the team awaits its new stadium in Queens.
• Football Game: 1 HBCU Brick City Kickoff Classic.
• Local School Game: 1 Harrison High School match.
• Other Events: A Mystery Car Show Meet outside the arena.

Comparing Home Stadiums

Gotham FC’s opponents, the Chicago Red Stars, play their home games at Seat Geek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois, which has a seating capacity of 28,000. In comparison, Red Bull Arena’s larger capacity offers an enhanced spectator experience.

Team Standings and Stats

As of now, Gotham FC has a record of 3 wins, 2 losses, and 3 ties. They aim to leverage their home advantage to improve their standing. The Chicago Red Stars, on the other hand, come into this match with 5 wins, 3 losses, and 1 tie. This game will be crucial for both teams as they vie for better positions in the NWSL standings.

Game Day Excitement

Attendees of the match will be treated to a special giveaway, with the first 5,000 fans receiving exclusive Gotham FC merchandise. Themed Fan Appreciation Night, the event will feature various activities and entertainment to celebrate and engage the loyal supporters of Gotham FC.

Gotham FC's Matchday to Highlight Mental Health

Powered by RWJBarnabas Health, Gotham FC's matchday will feature a sign-making station and a live performance by the popular local band, Atomic Funk Project.

Gotham FC, along with their official healthcare provider RWJBarnabas Health, will highlight mental health organizations and provide related materials throughout the event.

Representatives from the Society for Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS) and the Eating Disorders Program at RWJUH Somerset, part of RWJBarnabas Health Behavioral Health Services, will be at Fan Fest to share resources and programs with fans. Additionally, handmade jewelry vendor Live Rainbowfully will sell items inspired by positive mental health.

Before kickoff, actress Jennifer Esposito and sailor Cole Brauer will serve as honorary torchbearers in a Gotham FC tradition. They will join community members and the club's supporters group for the ceremonial pregame lighting of an eight-foot torch with a live flame.

Musical artist Dopico will perform the national anthem.

Traffic and Community Impact

The Harrison Police Department is expected to issue a traffic bulletin to alert the community about the game. In previous New York Red Bulls games, there have been complaints about loud music, raising concerns about its impact on local residents. It remains unclear what specific measures Red Bull Arena management is taking in collaboration with the Harrison Police Department to address these quality-of-life issues.

Purchase Tickets

Tickets for the Game can be purchased on Ticketmaster.

Looking Ahead

As Gotham FC prepares to take on the Chicago Red Stars, fans can anticipate a night of high-energy soccer and community spirit. With the backdrop of Red Bull Arena's impressive setting, this match promises to be a highlight of the NWSL season.

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