After a narrow 1-0 defeat against the Utah Royals, the Portland Thorns return home to host the North Carolina Courage in a clash that could have major playoff— and shield— implications.
Wednesday night’s showdown is the latest installment of a series between the two NWSL powerhouses. Back in 2016 the Courage, previously known as the Western New York Flash, defeated the Thorns 4-3 in a wild semi-final at Providence Park. Since the playoff defeat, the Thorns have a 3-1-5 record against the Courage. This season the Thorns have yet to drop points to North Carolina, fighting to a 1-1 draw in Cary and winning 2-1 at home a month ago despite not scoring any goals of their own.