West Wake News

The North Carolina Courage has confirmed the extension of forward Manaka Matsukubo's contract through the 2026 NWSL season. This decision follows the club's option to purchase her contract outright last June after a year-long loan from Mynavi Sendai.

In 2024, Manaka delivered notable performances both domestically and internationally. For the Courage, she scored two goals and provided one assist in over 1,000 minutes during the NWSL regular season. On the international stage, she played a pivotal role for Japan, securing a silver medal at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup with three goals and receiving three Player of the Match awards. Her efforts earned her the tournament’s Silver Ball as the second-best player.

Manaka's achievements have also led to her first senior call-up to Japan's national team in October. "Signing Manaka to an extension is great for us," said Head Coach Sean Nahas. "She is an extremely talented young player who is truly just getting started, and we are excited she will continue developing with us in North Carolina."

Since joining Cary on loan in July 2023, Manaka has made significant contributions to the team. In the 2023 NWSL Challenge Cup, she scored a decisive goal with a volley shortly after her arrival. Throughout her time with the Courage, she has recorded five goals and two assists across 30 appearances in all competitions.