Pieces in a Puzzle

The NC Courage lose 2-3 to Houston Dash. Katie is joined by guest Victoria Klum this week while Trevor remains out on paternity leave. Plus a great conversation with forward Evelyn Ijeh, who just recorded her third straight game with a goal.

You can find Victoria at Victoria Klum Media across socials and on Bluesky at @vicster.net

In This EpisodeWhat We Learned This Week: NC Courage vs. Houston DashThe Courage lost Natalie Jacobs to a concussion early in the match, and came out flat off the high of last week's comeback win. We break down what losing Jacobs means for the back line and why the team's resilience and leadership continue to stand out, even in a loss. Plus, the growing chemistry in a midfield trio that's quickly become one of the best units on the roster.

Interview: Evelyn IjehWe sit down with forward Evelyn Ijeh to talk about her move from AC Milan, including the adjustment to a new city, league, and culture. We discuss her fast-growing partnership with Ashley Sanchez and Ally Schlegel up top and what fans should know about her game. Then we get to know her a little better off the pitch, including her love of journaling and drawing as a creative outlet away from soccer.

Standout StatsRyan Williams tied Kaleigh Kurtz for second all-time in Courage appearances with 132. Ashley Sanchez crossed 10,000 career NWSL minutes, with more of those minutes now coming as a Courage player than anywhere else. With Ijeh's 10th goal of the season, she and Sanchez became just the third pair of teammates in club history to both reach double-digit goals in a single season, joining Jessica McDonald and Lynn Biyendolo (née Williams) in 2016 and Debinha and Diana Ordóñez in 2022. We dig into what the numbers say about a team that's finally spreading the goals around.

Looking Ahead: Boston LegacyCasey Murphy and Bianca St-Georges return to Cary for the first time since leaving in the offseason. We break down Boston's unconventional back three and where the Courage can find their opportunities in the middle of the park.

Looking Ahead: Angel City FCAngel City comes to WakeMed for Pride Night with the return of Sydney Leroux and a back line that's proven difficult to break down all season. We break down where the Courage might be able to create chaos in the box and why staying disciplined defensively will be as important as scoring.

Courage NewsCameron Brooks is nominated for the Lauren Holiday Impact Award for her partnership with the Bair Foundation, supporting