North Carolina Courage Vs Washington Spirit: 3 things we learned

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HERRIMAN, UT – JULY 01: Denise O’Sullivan #8 greets Lynn Williams #9 of North Carolina Courage after a goal during a game against the Washington Spirit in the first round of the NWSL Challenge Cup at Zions Bank Stadium on July 1, 2020 in Herriman, Utah. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

1. North Carolina on another level

This game had a lot of build up leading up to it, these were the only two teams who won their first game of the Challenge Cup. Some believed that the Spirit could be the team to overtake the mighty Courage — especially after defeating Carolina 2-1 last year. On this occasion, though, the defending champions reminded fans why they’re still the favorites.

The match started in a back-and-forth manner. It seemed like either team could make the first breakthrough. But as the game settled into a rhythm, the Courage dominance grew. Washington was fortunate to end the first half at 0-0. They then found themselves overrun in the second half.

The Spirit are the up and comers of the NWSL. They barely missed out on the playoffs last year and have the youngest team in the league that is stocked with talent. Players like Ashley Sanchez, Jordan Dibiasi and Andi Sullivan were all picked in the top five of the past three NWSL drafts. There is reason to be excited about what Washington is building for this tournament and in the coming years.

Next. North Carolina Courage Vs Portland Thorns: 3 things we learned. dark

However, the Courage showed that, for now, they are still the team to beat. It doesn’t look as if anyone will catch them in the Challenge Cup. They are the champions for a reason and they don’t plan on losing that title anytime soon.

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