Where to Watch Gotham FC v Washington Spirit: ESPN US Broadcast with Kelsey Riggs, Jenn Hildreth and Lianne Sanderson
Match date:
Where to Watch Gotham FC v Washington Spirit: ESPN US Broadcast with Kelsey Riggs, Jenn Hildreth and Lianne Sanderson
British fans can watch the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) clash between Gotham FC and Washington Spirit exclusively on ESPN (US) and via ESPN Unlimited, with the match kicking off at 01:00 UK time on Thursday, 16 July 2026. While the game is not broadcast on traditional UK channels like ITV, BBC, Sky or TNT, international viewers can access the fixture through NWSL+ International, which offers either the geo-restricted world feed or a dedicated international commentary team.
The US broadcast features a premium presenting lineup anchored by Kelsey Riggs, who hosts ESPN’s on-site studio show at Citi Field as part of the league’s annual Rivalry Week[5]. Riggs, a former college soccer player and seasoned sports journalist, brings sharp analytical insight and an engaging personality to ESPN’s women’s football coverage, having previously covered major tournaments including the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The Commentary Team: Experience Meets Expertise
Leading the live commentary is veteran play-by-play voice Jenn Hildreth, who will describe the action alongside co-commentator and former England defender Lianne Sanderson[5]. Hildreth has been a staple of ESPN’s soccer coverage for over a decade, known for her clear, energetic delivery and deep knowledge of the NWSL. Sanderson, who enjoyed a successful career with clubs like Manchester City and Chelsea before becoming a full-time pundit, offers tactical nuance and first-hand experience of the pressures of East Coast rivalries in the women’s game.
In the studio, Ali Krieger joins Riggs as the match analyst [5]. Krieger, a three-time US Women’s National Team champion and 2019 FIFA World Cup champion, brings elite-level playing credibility to the broadcast. Her background includes over 100 appearances for the USA and a long stint with Gotham FC, giving her unique insight into the home side’s dynamics as she returns to commentate on her former club.
Alternative Viewing: The World Feed and NWSL+
For viewers who prefer a different commentary perspective, the World feed available via NWSL+ International features main commentator Marion Crowder and co-commentator Jamie Kyle Watson. Crowder, a respected voice in women’s football broadcasting, delivers a neutral, global-oriented narrative, while Watson, a former professional player and coach, adds technical analysis from an international standpoint.
Both the ESPN US broadcast and the NWSL+ world feed cover the match live, ensuring fans anywhere can follow the action. For those interested in the broader context of the NWSL, including fixtures, standings and transfer news, the official league website offers comprehensive resources: https://www.nwslsoccer.com.
Recent Rivalry History Adds Weight to the Clash
This matchup carries significant baggage, with Gotham FC and Washington Spirit locked in one of the NWSL’s most intense East Coast rivalries. Just months ago, in November 2025, Gotham FC defeated Washington Spirit 1–0 in the NWSL Championship Final, with Rose Lavelle scoring the decisive goal in the 80th minute to secure Gotham’s second league title [1]. The teams had previously met in August 2025, drawing 0–0, and in June 2024, when Washington won 2–0 with goals from Courtney Brown and Trinity Rodman [2][3].
Adding to the drama, the match takes place at Citi Field, Gotham’s home ground, where they have previously delivered dominant performances, including a 3–0 victory over Washington in highlights that featured goals from Sarah Schupansky and Esther González, plus a stellar display from goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger [4]. With both sides boasting attacking firepower and defensive resilience, Thursday’s fixture is poised to be another high-stakes encounter in this fiercely competitive rivalry.
Article generated: 16 July 2026, 01:40 GMT