Can Racing Louisville break their losing streak against North Carolina Courage?

The word that describes the story between North Carolina Courage and Racing Louisville FC is dominance. Having played eight times in the NWSL, Courage has managed to win all the games against this opponent. That places Louisville in an uncomfortable position in this rivalry. Each time, it just seems like Courage have the perfect recipe to control the game through ball possession or clinical finishing. But this Saturday's matchup has a different vibe to it, and Racing-coming off a stirring comeback victory against Angel City-might finally crack the seal on this unfortunate streak.

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What's at Stake

If you look at the table or the numbers, it is obvious that Racing needs more than just a good outing. They are salivating at the opportunity to move up the table, with Chicago and Portland currently holding the spots directly in front of them. To get to that point, though, Racing needs more than a good showing they need a win. Courage has been that bug right from the start for Racing, and ending this losing streak would be a huge morale booster for the Louisville squad, especially playing at home in front of their frenzied fans at Lynn Family Stadium.

On the other side, North Carolina Courage comes into this game with a pretty decent record of 10 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws. Though not at the very top, Courage is consistent and an unsafe team to be dealing with, especially since they have beaten Racing in every league matchup they have faced so far. This is an opportunity of gold for Racing, who defeated a historically dominant opponent in a fashion that sent a clear message: they're ready to push for a better spot in the competition.

Opportunity and Challenge

This is the developmental phase for Racing Louisville, who come fresh off a big 2-1 win over Angel City, in which Janine Beckie had a big part. That comeback win brought much-needed confidence, and now what Racing want is to be able to put together a good run of form, especially at home. Beckie, with her playmaking and finishing ability, is one of Racing's main hopes in breaking down Courage's solid defense.

But Racing knows it's a tall order. In its last eight matches against Courage, Louisville has been outscored 24-4. That gives you an idea of the size of the uphill climb. For Racing to have a chance at victory, not only will they have to neutralize O'Sullivan, but also be inventive in their attack and pesky enough to harass Courage for the entirety of the game-something that has not often come easy to Louisville.

The tough job of dissecting courage

If Racing is to dream of a victory, then they will have to crack this defensive and strategic code that North Carolina Courage has perfected over the years. The teams have played 11 matches in all competitions, with no win for Racing. The run includes their most recent regular-season meeting when Courage scored three unanswered goals in the second half and walked away with a 3-1 win.

It will be a difficult cycle to break, but Racing Louisville has all the talent and, most importantly, the motivation to finally manage a change in their fortunes.