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Washington Spirit face monumental challenge against North Carolina Courage

Unbeaten in six games, the Spirit face one of the league's most solid defenses

By Izabelle Franca

Oct 15, 2023; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; North Carolina Courage forward Brittany Ratcliffe (11) and Washington Spirit defender Gabrielle Carle (14) chase the ball during the second half at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 15, 2023; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; North Carolina Courage forward Brittany Ratcliffe (11) and Washington Spirit defender Gabrielle Carle (14) chase the ball during the second half at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports / Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
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If you like excitement, get ready because the Washington Spirit are about to face a fiery test against the North Carolina Courage. At Audi Field this Saturday, during Pride Night, the league leaders will square off against one of the most resilient and defensively solid teams in the NWSL.

The Washington Spirit, with their ten wins, are making NWSL history. They became only the third team in league history to win ten of their first fourteen regular season matches, a feat only Seattle and the North Carolina Courage themselves have managed before. Coming off a physical and decisive win against Gotham FC, the Spirit are fired up and confident. Courtney Brown and Croix Bethune were outstanding in the last match, with Bethune collecting her ninth assist of the season, a milestone that puts her among the best in league history.

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On the other hand, the Courage, despite an uneven start, have been recovering with an iron defense and an attack that has finally found its rhythm. They are coming off an impressive win against the Chicago Red Stars, where three different players scored. This result is a sign that the Courage are not messing around and can surprise any opponent.

The Spirit know it won't be easy. The Courage have dominated possession this season, leading the league with 58% possession and over 5,800 passes completed. That means the Spirit need to be surgical in the opportunities they get. And speaking of opportunities, the Spirit attack is one of the most lethal in the league. With Trinity Rodman, Ouleymata Sarr and Croix Bethune leading the charge, the Spirit have an offensive line that can pick apart any defense.

This clash also marks the return of Ashley Sanchez to Audi Field. Sanchez was traded at the beginning of the year, and her performance has been solid with two goals and three assists this season. Will she put on a show against her former team? It's the kind of storyline that makes this sport so exciting.

What's more, the Spirit's unbeaten run in their last six matches adds an extra layer of pressure. They know that a stumble could cost them dearly in the title race. On the other hand, the Courage are still looking for their first away win this season, and toppling the leaders would make a powerful statement.

And if you think Spirit will settle for the lead, think again. This team has shown an insatiable hunger for victories, and Pride Night is the perfect setting for yet another spectacle. With the fans on their side and extra motivation, Spirit are determined to maintain their position at the top.

The team needs to be alert and take advantage of every opportunity, while the Courage are looking to keep possession and exploit any gaps in the defense. The question remains: who will emerge victorious? No matter the result, one thing is certain - high-quality soccer and lots of excitement are guaranteed. Let's follow along and hope for a great spectacle!

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