Gotham moves NWSL semifinal to Icahn Stadium over pitch

Gotham FC has moved its NWSL semifinal against the Kansas City Current from Sports Illustrated Stadium to Icahn Stadium because of concerns about the playing surface at its usual home. The Sunday match will be played at the 5,000-seat venue on Randalls Island in New York City, rather than the 25,000-seat stadium in Harrison, New Jersey.

The National Women’s Soccer League announced the venue change on Monday. Gotham said it made the decision to provide players with a suitable surface, while acknowledging that the smaller venue will limit how many supporters can attend. Club president of soccer operations Yael Averbuch West said the club had consulted its coach, captains and ownership before deciding to prioritize playing conditions.

The move comes after players and coaches criticized the Sports Illustrated Stadium pitch following Gotham’s quarterfinal win over Seattle Reign. The field had also drawn concern during Gotham’s regular-season finale against the Utah Royals on November 1. Reports said the league fined Gotham $10,000 over the conditions at that match.

Gotham and the league considered possible repairs with the stadium’s main tenants, the New York Red Bulls. One account...