The North Carolina Courage and Racing Louisville have secured their spots in the NWSL Challenge Cup final after hard-fought victories in the semifinals. The Courage, who won the Challenge Cup last year, will have the opportunity to defend their title once again in front of their home crowd. Louisville, on the other hand, has the chance to win their first-ever trophy.
Here’s what you need to know before the final:
Viewing information
- Date: Saturday, Sept. 9 | Time: 12:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Wakemed Soccer Park — Cary, North Carolina
- TV: CBS
How they got here
The Courage finished at the top of the East Division, securing their place in the semifinals with two commanding victories. Louisville, as the best second-place team in the group stage, showcased their depth in the tournament.
The Courage faced the Kansas City Current in the semifinals and secured a dramatic 1-0 victory in the 96th minute. Louisville, facing the OL Reign in their semifinal match, capitalized on a turnover in the 28th minute to secure a 1-0 win.
Prediction
The Courage will likely dominate possession in the final, but Louisville has shown success in that game state. It is expected to be a closely contested match, with the possibility of an upset victory for Louisville. Prediction: North Carolina Courage 0, Racing Louisville 1
