And now, the pressure shifts.
Before kickoff last Friday, Portland Thorns FC could embrace life as an underdog, play without pressure, and know anybody with context on the National Women’s Soccer League’s Challenge Cup presented by P&G and Secret would cast the North Carolina Courage as favorites in the teams’ quarterfinal matchup. But then the two-time defending league champions fell, 1-0 on rookie Morgan Weaver’s first professional goal. In addition to a place in the Challenge Cup’s semifinals, the Thorns also raised expectations. Ahead of Wednesday’s match against the Houston Dash (9:30am PT, CBS All Access), Portland may be the tournament’s favorites.