The North Carolina Courage and Chicago Stars FC face off in an NWSL regular-season matchup at WakeMed Soccer Park. The Courage are looking to bounce back after a tough start to the season, while Chicago aims to snap a four-match losing streak and climb out of last place in the standings.
Match Details
- Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
- Time: 5:00 PM ET
- Venue: WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary, NC
- TV Broadcast: CBS Sports Golazo Network, NWSL+
Team Overview
North Carolina Courage (2-3-3, 9 points, 11th in NWSL standings)
- Recent Form: Draw-Loss-Draw-Win-Loss
- Key Players:
- A Sanchez (midfielder, 2 goals)
- Ryan Williams (defender, 1 goal, 1 assist)
- Kaleigh Kurtz (defender, 1 goal)
- Strengths:
- Strong midfield control with Sanchez leading the attack
- Resilient defensive structure despite recent struggles
- Home-field advantage at WakeMed Soccer Park
Chicago Stars FC (1-6-1, 4 points, 14th in NWSL standings)
- Recent Form: Loss-Loss-Loss-Loss-Win
- Key Players:
- Ludmila (forward, 2 goals)
- Julia Grosso (midfielder, 1 goal)
- Jade Joseph (midfielder, 1 goal, 2 assists)
- Challenges:
- Struggled defensively, conceding 12 more goals than they’ve scored
- Poor road record (0-3-1)
- Must improve finishing efficiency
Matchup Breakdown
- Courage’s Edge: North Carolina has historical success against Chicago, winning four of their last five meetings. Their midfield control and defensive resilience could be key.
- Chicago’s Hope: The Stars have momentum after their first win of the season. If they can capitalize on scoring chances and tighten their defense, they could secure another victory.
- X-Factor: A Sanchez, who has been instrumental in North Carolina’s attack, could be a game-changer with her ability to create chances and finish under pressure.
MATCH ODDS
North Carolina Courage – 230 Draw + 330 Chicago Stars + 550
Over 2.5 – 120 Under 2.5 – 120
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 16, 2025
