Overloaded

The NC Courage fall 1-2 in San Diego in a top-five showdown, but Trevor and Katie see real signs to build on as they head into a home match against shield leaders Gotham FC. Plus, exciting roster news at the trade.

In This EpisodeWhat We Learned This Week: NC Courage vs. San Diego WaveA tight, evenly matched game that came down to the midfield battle. San Diego overloaded the middle early and dictated tempo, and the Courage are still searching for answers when teams play how we want to play. We break down the Riley Jackson-sized hole in the midfield, why Uno Shiragaki and Natalia Staude have swapped sides at center back the last two games, and Mak Lind's willingness to pull defenders for attackers when chasing a result.

Standout StatsThe Courage outshot San Diego 13 to 9 and had more shots on target, but the Wave were far more clinical in front of goal. We dig into what that efficiency gap says about both teams.

Looking Ahead: Gotham FCThe Shield leaders come to WakeMed with the league's stingiest defense, just 18 goals allowed all season. We break down how Gotham lulls teams into complacency before striking on the counter. We discuss why Erica Meg Parkinson and Evelyn Ijeh could be the keys to breaking them down centrally, and whether Ashley Sanchez ties (or surpasses) the NWSL single-season goal record at home this weekend.

Courage NewsAshley Sanchez sits at 19 goals, one off tying Temwa Chawinga's NWSL single-season record. Maycee Bell is placed on the season-ending injury list. The Courage acquire forward Gianna Paul from Kansas City Current for $150,000.

Around the LeagueHouston fires Fabrice Gautrat. Chicago is officially eliminated from playoff contention. San Diego Wave's Cat Macario is placed on the season-ending injury list.

About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.

New episode drops every Thursday.

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Hosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for mo