
Courage to Face Washington Spirit to Continue Challenge Cup Preliminary Round
June 29, 2020 - National Women's Soccer League (NWSL)
North Carolina Courage News Release
Herriman, Utah - The North Carolina Courage will continue the preliminary round of the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup against the Washington Spirit at Zion's Bank Stadium in Herriman, Utah this Wednesday, July 1 at 10 p.m. EST. The Courage will look to secure their second win of the tournament in Wednesday's game.
Most recently, the Courage bested Portland Thorns FC by a score of 2-1 in the opening match of the Challenge Cup behind goals from Debinha and Lynn Williams. Debinha scored first, notching a goal assisted by teammate Hailie Mace, who made her NWSL debut in the match. Portland's Simone Charley scored five minutes later to bring the score to a draw, only to be answered by Williams heading in a game-winning goal off a cross from Sam Mewis.
Following the Courage's win over Portland, the Washington Spirit defeated the Chicago Red Stars 2-1 on Saturday night with goals from USWNT standout Rose Lavelle and Ashley Hatch.
In the last meeting between the two teams, the Courage fell to the Spirit 2-1 despite a dominant performance. Lynn Williams recorded her 50th NWSL goal to put the Courage up 1-0, but a late equalizer by Rose Lavelle rendered the score 1-1. Mallory Pugh scored the Spirit's second goal to win the match for Washington.
Up Next:
The North Carolina Courage will face the Chicago Red Stars on Sunday, July 5 at 12:30 p.m. EST to continue the preliminary round of the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup.
Players to Watch Presented by Aetna:
North Carolina Courage - #10 Debinha
After a dominant performance on offense in Saturday's win against the Thorns, fans can expect Debinha to challenge the Spirit's defense and create scoring opportunities for the Courage.
Washington Spirit - #10 Rose Lavelle
Lavelle is known for her quick footwork and creativity on the ball, making her dangerous in the midfield and difficult to defend. She will look to secure another preliminary round win for the Spirit in Wednesday's game.
• Discuss this story on the National Women's Soccer League message board...
National Women's Soccer League Stories from June 29, 2020
- Match Forecast: OL Reign Face Sky Blue FC to Begin NWSL Challenge Cup Campaign - Seattle Reign FC
- 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup Anthem Update - NWSL
- Courage to Face Washington Spirit to Continue Challenge Cup Preliminary Round - North Carolina Courage
- Utah Royals FC Open NWSL Challenge Cup Venture Tuesday against Houston Dash - Utah Royals FC
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
Other Recent North Carolina Courage Stories
- Sanchez Scores Again As Courage Down Royals
- Match Preview: NC Courage at Utah Royals
- NC Courage Defender Ryan Williams Named to NWSL Best Xi of April
- NWSL Legend Katelyn Rowland to Headline NC Courage TST Team
- North Carolina Courage Appoint Dr. Ceri Bowley as Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director

