05 July 2020

North Carolina Courage beat Chicago Red Stars 1-0 to remain unbeaten in the NWSL Challenge Cup

North Carolina Courage have secured their third victory in a row after defeating Chicago Red Stars 1-0 in the National Women’s Soccer League Challenge Cup.

Courage have now won all of their matches and sit at the top of the table.

Both teams started timidly as they found their feet in the opening minutes of the match.

As Courage got warmed up the chances began to flow. Sam Mewis had the best two chances with hits from a distance, both being handled well by Red Stars keeper Alyssa Naehel.

An excellent part of Red Stars’ first half performance was their defence. They were all over Courage as they tried to attack and even forced them back to their keeper on a few occasions.

Despite the promising play by both sides, they headed into the break goalless.

Red Stars started the second half well and began to put some attacking play together. Their best shot came as Julie Ertz passed a beautiful long range pass to Kealia Watt.

Watt got a chance away but it went just wide.

And Chicago’s defensive wall remained strong until Courage demolished it in the 81st minute.

Jaelene Daniels crossed the ball into the box and Abby Erceg got a header on the end of it to put her team ahead.

Red Stars attempted to regain possession to get the equaliser but Courage’s Lynn Williams dominated the last five minutes of the game.

She got three close chances away but none were converted and as the final whistle blew Courage celebrated.

Red Stars are yet to achieve a win in this tournament, their next chance will be on July 12 against Utah Royals.

And Courage will attempt to continue their unbeaten run as they compete against Sky Blue FC on July 13.

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