Brazilian Champions Corinthians Stun Gotham FC in Women's Champions Cup Semifinal
Corinthians' 40-year-old captain Gabi Zanotti scored a stunning goal in the 83rd minute to seal a surprise 1-0 victory over NWSL champions Gotham FC, sending shockwaves through the women's football world. The win sets up an intriguing final against European Champions League winners Arsenal or African Champions League winners AS Far.
Manager Lucas Piccinato praised his team for executing their gameplan perfectly, stating, "Everyone was talking about maybe Gotham and Arsenal in the final but Corinthians are here and we played a very good game to beat the NWSL champions." He also hinted that Corinthians were well-prepared, having had four months to prepare for the season.
In contrast, Gotham manager Juan Carlos Amorós expressed disappointment, saying, "We wish them all the best. They came with a gameplan they executed, it worked for them and they won the game. On our side I think we also executed everything that we prepared." However, he also acknowledged his team's struggles with their decision-making in the final third, which ultimately cost them the game.
The match was marked by controversy when a Gotham free-kick on the edge of the area provoked scenes that led to a red card for a member of Corinthians' staff. The American side pushed hard but were unable to find an equaliser from their final kick, with the effort wide of the post.
Corinthians, who started the tournament without three key players due to visa issues, demonstrated a high level of organization and determination to overcome the odds. Their victory sets up a thrilling final that promises to be an exciting clash between two strong teams.
The Women's Champions Cup has been plagued by logistical issues throughout its inaugural season, with many teams struggling to prepare for the tournament due to conflicting schedules and visas. However, Corinthians' win demonstrates that the competition can still deliver high-quality football, and fans are eagerly anticipating the final match against Arsenal or AS Far.
Corinthians' 40-year-old captain Gabi Zanotti scored a stunning goal in the 83rd minute to seal a surprise 1-0 victory over NWSL champions Gotham FC, sending shockwaves through the women's football world. The win sets up an intriguing final against European Champions League winners Arsenal or African Champions League winners AS Far.
Manager Lucas Piccinato praised his team for executing their gameplan perfectly, stating, "Everyone was talking about maybe Gotham and Arsenal in the final but Corinthians are here and we played a very good game to beat the NWSL champions." He also hinted that Corinthians were well-prepared, having had four months to prepare for the season.
In contrast, Gotham manager Juan Carlos Amorós expressed disappointment, saying, "We wish them all the best. They came with a gameplan they executed, it worked for them and they won the game. On our side I think we also executed everything that we prepared." However, he also acknowledged his team's struggles with their decision-making in the final third, which ultimately cost them the game.
The match was marked by controversy when a Gotham free-kick on the edge of the area provoked scenes that led to a red card for a member of Corinthians' staff. The American side pushed hard but were unable to find an equaliser from their final kick, with the effort wide of the post.
Corinthians, who started the tournament without three key players due to visa issues, demonstrated a high level of organization and determination to overcome the odds. Their victory sets up a thrilling final that promises to be an exciting clash between two strong teams.
The Women's Champions Cup has been plagued by logistical issues throughout its inaugural season, with many teams struggling to prepare for the tournament due to conflicting schedules and visas. However, Corinthians' win demonstrates that the competition can still deliver high-quality football, and fans are eagerly anticipating the final match against Arsenal or AS Far.