The fourth annual 2023 NWSL Challenge Cup will begin the semifinal round on Sept. 6 as the journey toward the title reaches its final stages. The group stage went down to the wire with a previously postponed match between NJ/NY Gotham FC and Orlando Pride to determine the fourth and final team for the semifinals. Gotham FC picked up a late-game equalizer against Orlando, but the draw wasn’t enough to win the East Region group as North Carolina Courage advanced on goal differential. Fans can watch the NWSL Challenge Cup and regular season across CBS Sports platforms including CBS Sports Golazo Network and Paramount+.
Take a look at the format, standings, and more:
Format
The annual competition has gone through different variations over the last three editions, moving from a stand-alone tournament in 2020 to a scheduled competition between preseason and the regular season. The Challenge Cup will now take place throughout the regular season, with 12 clubs divided into three groups playing double round-robin matches.
Three group winners advance to the semifinals, along with the highest-placed runner-up. The final four compete for a spot in the final and a cash prize. The final four teams will compete in the semifinals on Sept. 6, and the two finalists will compete in the NWSL Challenge Cup final on Sept. 9. Winners will claim the cup, bragging rights, and a bonus pool among the players.