Mackenzie Arnold and Sam Kerr both started as Portland Thorns W drew 1–1 with NJ/NY Gotham FC W at Sports Illustrated Stadium on 29 August 2026. Arnold played 46 minutes in goal, recording two saves, 16 passes with 11 accurate and a 6.7 rating. Her supplied match statistics list no goals conceded. Kerr also played 46 minutes up front for Gotham, registering two shots, including one on target, while completing 16 of 17 passes. She added one tackle, won two of four duels and completed her only dribble attempt, earning a 6.5 rating. Gotham controlled 73 per cent possession and scored through J. Shaw in the 60th minute, but Portland levelled from S. Wilson’s penalty 15 minutes later. The Thorns finished with 27 per cent possession, eight shots and four on target, while Gotham managed five shots and two on target. Neither Australian recorded a goal or assist.