The North Carolina Courage set a new record for home opener attendance, drawing 8,158 fans to First Horizon Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Despite the strong turnout, the team suffered a 2-1 defeat against Seattle Reign.
This attendance figure is the sixth highest in the club’s history and marks their largest crowd before September. The match saw Aline Gomes score for the Courage in the 59th minute after Denise O’Sullivan’s effort, following goals from Seattle’s Jess Fishlock in the 35th minute and Jordyn Bugg in the 56th minute.
The game also celebrated Jessica McDonald’s induction into the Ring of Honor alongside Sam Mewis. It was Head Coach Sean Nahas’ 100th match leading NC Courage across all competitions.
Looking ahead, NC Courage will face Portland Thorns on March 29 as part of Week 3 of the NWSL regular season. The game will kick off at 10 p.m. ET and be broadcast on ION.
