Two NWSL Cup contenders squared off in the first game of the 2019 season and the match was perhaps a little typical of two teams still settling into the season. For the Courage, the game would be a story of missed chances with the Red Stars needing just one opportunity to take a point on the road as the game ended 1-1 in a comeback draw for the home side.
The Courage would lineup in their well known 4-4-2 box formation with the first pick roster, minus Debinha with O’Sullivan starting in the right side no. 10 role.