NJ/NY Gotham FC lost 2-0 to the San Diego Wave on July 4, 2026.

What happened?

The Wave's Melanie Barcenas scored a goal from 30 yards out, striking the goalpost and ricocheting into the back of the net, leaving NJ/NY Gotham FC goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger with no chance to save it.

Key players

Barcenas' goal was the difference in the match, and she celebrated by paying homage to her idol, Alex Morgan, who was in attendance. The Wave's goalkeeper, Luisa Agudelo, impressed in her debut, recording four saves.

Impact on standings

The loss leaves NJ/NY Gotham FC with a record of 6-3-3, while the San Diego Wave improves to 9-4-1. The Wave is currently in first place, but the team is focused on continuing to improve and avoiding a second-half slump.

Upcoming matches

NJ/NY Gotham FC will look to bounce back from the loss in their next match. The team's schedule and upcoming opponents will be crucial in determining their chances of making a playoff run.

The Wave's Trinity Byars sealed the 2-0 victory with a goal in the 94th minute. NJ/NY Gotham FC's Rose Lavelle had a long-range effort tipped out of bounds by Agudelo in the 90th minute. The team's forward, Jordynn Dudley, had a shot stopped by Agudelo in the 36th minute.