West Wake News

The North Carolina Courage secured a 3-1 victory over Racing Louisville FC on Sunday afternoon at WakeMed Soccer Park. This win marks the team's fourth consecutive positive result, bringing their record to 8-1-7 and earning them 25 points as they head into the Olympic break.

Ashley Sanchez, Manaka Matsukubo, and Olivia Wingate scored for the Courage in the second half. The team conceded a goal from Reilyn Turner just past the half-hour mark and did not register a shot on target in the first half. Head Coach Sean Nahas made an unprecedented move by substituting three players at halftime, which proved effective.

The equalizer came from an eight-pass sequence that culminated with Sanchez scoring a header in the 55th minute. Minutes later, Matsukubo capitalized on a poor pass from Katie Lund to score from long range at the hour mark. Wingate added another goal less than ten minutes later, assisted by captain Denise O’Sullivan.

Post-match ceremonies honored Olympians from both teams, while USA Swimming was recognized during halftime. Casey Murphy made four saves in her final game before joining the USWNT.

The Courage will resume play after the Olympic break against Orlando Pride on July 20 at WakeMed Soccer Park.