Emily Sonnett signs extension with Gotham as Challenge Cup looms

Gotham FC ensured that U.S.women’s national team defender Emily Sonnett isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. The defending champions signed Sonnett to a contract extension that locks her up through the 2028 season, the club announced Thursday. “I’m really excited to continue with Gotham FC,” Sonnett said in a statement.

“This is a special group that holds itself to a high standard every day.I’m looking forward to building on what we’ve started here.”It’s no surprise that a championship-hungry club like Gotham wanted to extend Sonnett, who was named to the NWSL Best XI Second Team last season. The 32-year-old played an integral part in Gotham winning last year’s NWSL championship, including making the sliding stop of Leicy Santo’s goal attempt in front of her team’s net. Thanks to Sonnett’s stop and Rose Lavelle’s incredible goal, Gotham earned its spot in this year’s Challenge Cup, which is scheduled to take place Friday.

Gotham is set to face the reigning NWSL Shield winner Kansas City Current in Columbus in what’s the first opportunity of the season to win some hardware.Sonnett is in her third season with Gotham, making eight appearances this season, including five starts.The two-time Olympian cemented her spot as an anchor of the team’s back line.Despite losing center-back Tierna Davidson to a season-ending ACL tear in March, Gotham, with Sonnett’s help, boasted one of the NWSL’s top defenses. The club conceded the second fewest goals in the league, allowing only 25 scores in 26 matches.

Gotham also set a club record of 11 clean sheets. “Emily has been an essential part of our team’s success,” president of basketball operations Yael Averbuch West said.“Her quality, consistency and standard of excellence have been incredibly valuable to our group, and we’re excited to have her continue with Gotham FC.”Sonnett has appeared in 77 games, including 70 starts during her time at Gotham.

She’s also been a cons...