North Wake News

The North Carolina Courage will commence their 2025 NWSL season against Racing Louisville on March 15 at Lynn Family Stadium. The match, set for 5 p.m. ET, will be available to stream live on NWSL+.

Last season, the Courage finished fifth with a record of 12-11-3, securing a playoff spot but losing in the quarterfinals to Kansas City Current. Racing Louisville ended ninth with a record of 7-12-7, just missing out on the playoffs.

Courage Head Coach Sean Nahas commented on the preseason preparations: “It’s been a long preseason, but the group seems eager. We are ready to finally have a meaningful game. It comes around quick, but they seem ready to go. This will give us an idea of what our foundation is going to be and where we are with things and where we have to evolve. Overall, it’s been a good preseason camp.”

The Courage retains much of their squad from last year while adding new talent such as USWNT's Jaedyn Shaw via trade and Japanese youth international Shinomi Koyama from Sweden. They also signed forward Hannah Betfort as a free agent and USC All-American Brooklyn Courtnall as their first collegiate signing post-draft.

Shaw is noted for her attacking prowess with 13 goals and four assists over three seasons in San Diego. She joins Ashley Sanchez and Manaka Matsukubo in leading the Courage's attack.

Defensively, Kaleigh Kurtz returns alongside Malia Berkely, Ryan Williams, and Feli Rauch to maintain stability at the back. Denise O’Sullivan will lead the midfield with support from Riley Jackson and Shinomi Koyama.

Racing Louisville made significant trades last season acquiring forwards Janine Sonis (nee Beckie) from Portland and Bethany Balcer from Seattle along with rookie Emma Sears. Their midfield features Taylor Flint who led in duels won (234) and tackles won (56), supported by Savannah DeMelo.

Historically, the Courage holds a strong record against Racing Louisville at 10-1-0 in regular-season meetings; however, their sole loss came during last year's visit to Lynn Family Stadium.

Following this match, the Courage will host Seattle Reign FC for their home opener on March 22 at 7 p.m. ET. The team plans to induct Jessica McDonald into their Ring of Honor after this game.