The Kansas City Current’s record-breaking run in the 2025 NWSL season came to a stunning halt this weekend, as Gotham FC pulled off a dramatic upset in the quarterfinals at CPKC Stadium. After clinching the NWSL Shield faster than any team in league history, the Current’s championship hopes were dashed in extra time, leaving fans and analysts reeling.
KC Current’s Historic Regular Season
The 2025 campaign had all the makings of a fairy tale for the Kansas City Current. With a commanding 2-0 victory over Seattle Reign earlier this fall, the Current became the fastest team ever to secure the NWSL Shield, awarded to the club with the best regular-season record. Their high-octane attack, disciplined defense, and passionate home crowds at the new CPKC Stadium made them favorites to lift the league trophy.
Playoff Heartbreak: Gotham FC’s Stunning Upset
But the playoffs, as always, had other plans. On November 9, Gotham FC stunned the home crowd by defeating the Current 2-1 in extra time, marking the first time Gotham has ever beaten Kansas City on their own turf. The match was a tense, physical battle, with both sides trading chances before Gotham found the winner in the dying moments of extra time.
For Kansas City, the loss was especially bitter given their dominance throughout the regular season. Fans braved frigid temperatures to support their team, only to witness a shocking early exit from the postseason.
What Went Wrong for the Current?
Despite their regular-season brilliance, the Current struggled to convert chances in the quarterfinal. Gotham’s defense frustrated Kansas City’s star-studded attack, and a few missed opportunities proved costly. The upset underscores the unpredictable nature of playoff soccer, where a single game can erase months of hard-earned momentum.
Looking Ahead: Building on a Breakthrough Year
While the playoff loss stings, the Current’s 2025 season remains a landmark for the franchise. The team’s rapid ascent, record-setting Shield win, and growing fanbase signal a bright future. Off the field, the club continues to invest in talent, recently re-signing key players like Kayla Sharples through 2027, with an option for 2028.
As the dust settles, Kansas City will regroup and look to build on this year’s achievements. With a young, dynamic roster and a city rallying behind them, the Current are poised to remain contenders in the NWSL for years to come.
Takeaways and What’s Next
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KC Current made NWSL history by clinching the Shield faster than any team before.
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Gotham FC’s upset in the quarterfinals ended Kansas City’s championship dreams for 2025.
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Fan support remains strong, with record crowds and a passionate local following.
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Key players are locked in for future seasons, setting the stage for another title run.
The heartbreak of this playoff exit will linger, but the Kansas City Current’s rise is far from over. Expect this team to come back hungrier—and even more dangerous—in 2026.
Sources
1. NWSL Playoffs favorites KC Current stunned by Gotham FC in quarterfinals
2. The Kansas City Current make history and become fastest team to ...
3. Gotham pull off stunning upset, eliminating KC Current at CPKC Stadium | News | NWSLsoccer.com
4. KSHB 41 Kansas City: News, Weather, Chiefs, Traffic and Sports
5. Official News - Kansas City Current
6. NWSLsoccer.com - News
7. Kansas City Current re-signs Kayla Sharples through 2027 NWSL ...
8. What Formation will the KC Current Use in 2023?
