The Lion's Pitch

The NC Courage picked up a draw in Boston and dropped 3 points at home to Kansas City. Trevor and Katie break down both results and look ahead to a road trip to Orlando.In This EpisodeLooking Back: NC Courage vs Boston Legacy & KC CurrentTwo games, two slow starts, and too many goals conceded inside the first ten minutes. We break down the goals against Boston and Kansas City, what they reveal about the Courage's consistency challenges, the Feli Rauch red card that nobody in the stadium saw coming, and a few bright spots, including Chioma Okafor's growing impact, Lauren Thompson's electric cameo, and Manaka Matsukubo's knack for being in exactly the right place.Standout StatsKansas City won the defensive battle in the first half with the Courage stabilizing in the second. We dig into what the numbers mean.Looking Ahead: Orlando PrideOrlando is hovering mid-table but don't let that fool you. With Barbara Banda, Marta, and Summer Yates all capable of scoring, they have threats everywhere on the pitch. We break down what the Courage need to watch out for and what a road win could do for their table position.Courage NewsAshley Sanchez wins NWSL Player of the Month for April. Riley Jackson hits 50 consecutive caps, becoming the youngest Courage player and fourth youngest in league history to reach the mark. Avenue Capital Group investment clears, bringing serious new financing to the club.Around the LeagueAshley Sanchez wins NWSL Player of the Month for April. Riley Jackson hits 50 consecutive caps, becoming the youngest Courage player and fourth youngest in league history to reach the mark. Avenue Capital Group investment clears, bringing serious new financing to the club.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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NC Courage bounce back with a fun-to-watch 2-2 draw against our bitter rivals, the Portland Thorns. Katie and Trevor break down the match before looking far into the future to the Houston road match after the international break.In This EpisodeLooking Back: NC Courage vs Portland ThornsWe break down Manaka Matsukubo's magic and Ashley Sanchez's stunning strike. The Courage's defensive work kept Portland's dangerous front line largely in check. This performance felt like a step forward despite the draw.Standout StatsThe Courage generated 1.8 xG on just 12 shots while holding Portland to 1.48 xG on 16, including just 0.36 xG in the second half despite a heavy press. We dig into what the numbers say about where this team is heading.Looking Ahead: Houston DashHouston has 3 wins and 1 loss after a wild penalty-driven comeback win over Racing Louisville, but can they sustain it? We break down midfielder Kiki Van Zanten, the center-back pairing featuring a familiar face in Malia Berkely, to watch, and what the possession battle might look like when two teams who want to play the same style go head-to-head.Courage NewsA busy international window with Manaka Matsukubo, Evelyn Ijeh, Kailen Sheridan, Carly Wickenheiser, Lauren Thompson, and Riley Jackson all heading off on international duty. We run through the call-ups and what we're looking forward to watching.Around the LeagueAngel City fall, San Diego climb, and Denver quietly put together three clean sheets. We look at the early movers on the table and share our cautious takes on who can actually sustain it.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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The NC Courage draw Gotham FC on the road, remaining unbeaten in their first two matches of the season. Trevor and Katie break down the match, look ahead to a struggling Bay FC, and dig into an encouraging culture shift within the Courage.In This EpisodeLooking Back: NC Courage vs Gotham FCDebuts from Evelyn Ijeh, Sydney Schmidt, and Uno Shiragaki injected new energy into the match. We break down Mak Lind's surprise back five and the growing Carly Wickhenheiser and Riley Jackson partnership.Standout StatsGotham had 59% possession and twice as many passes in the Courage's half, so why didn't it feel that way? We dig into what the numbers actually tell us.Looking Ahead: Bay FCBay comes to WakeMed missing key defenders and with questions up front. We break down what to expect from Saturday's home match and make our picks for the starting XI.Courage NewsLind and Ryan Williams both spoke this week about celebrating small wins and building a culture of positive reinforcement.Around the LeagueSix red cards through two match days compared to 11 in all of 2025. We look at what's driving the surge. Plus, congratulations to Manaka Matsukubo and Japan on winning the AFC Women's Asian Cup.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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SummaryThe NC Courage are back. A potential $40 million investment, a brand new kit, and a season opener against Racing Louisville, this is the episode to get you ready for the 2026 NWSL season.In This Episode📰 Courage NewsKick off the new NWSL season with big news for NC Courage fans, including a potential $40 million investment that could reshape the club's future and a fresh new Venus flytrap-inspired third kit that everyone seems to love.📋Predicted LineupWe break down their predicted starting eleven for our NWSL opener against Louisville, debating midfield choices between Carly Wickenheiser and Shinomi Koyama, as well as a potential attacking four.🔮 Looking Ahead: Racing LouisvilleWe preview the NWSL season opener against Racing Louisville, breaking down what makes the Courage's first opponent so tricky to play against and why, despite the challenge, they both like NC Courage's chances on Saturday.🌎 Around the LeagueTrevor and Katie wrap up with a look around the league, reflecting on a promising She Believes Cup run for the US Women's National Team and what it could mean heading into the road to the 2027 World Cup.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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katie and Trevor break down the North Carolina Courage’s roster overhaul, from entirely new keepers to scoring superstars. Who’s gone, who’s new, and who will lead the team? Get analysis and a peek at what we hope this revamped squad can do in 2026. Courage Country, this is your must-listen season kickoff!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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SummaryIn this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, the Courage lit up the scoreboard with a historic hat trick, dominating across every stat, but is it too late to secure playoff glory? We break down the numbers, preview the do-or-die showdown against Gotham, explore key team news, and reflect on the fans' ongoing commitment to inclusivity and growth.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Bay FCThe Courage came alive behind a record-breaking hat trick from Manaka, the youngest player in league history to do it. Big win. Bigger question: Is it too late?📊 Standout StatsThe Courage dominated across the board, showing precision, control, and efficiency in every aspect of the game. From shot placement to possession and attacking in the box, the numbers tell the story of a team firing on all cylinders.🔮 Looking Ahead: Gotham FCThe Courage face a do-or-die showdown against Gotham, where every goal counts and playoff fate hinges not just on their win, but on other results around the league. Decision Day drama at its finest.📰 Courage NewsThe Courage is gearing up for the future with new additions. Exciting developments on and off the field signal a dynamic end to the season and a fresh start ahead.🌎 Around the LeagueThe week in women’s soccer reminds us that the game is bigger than scores and stats. It’s an inclusive space where players of all backgrounds belong, and it’s on all of us to protect that. Off-field developments and changes keep the league evolving, but the commitment to fairness, respect, and opportunity remains at the heart of the sport.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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, the NC Courage fall, but the playoff race is still mostly alive. We break down the challenges, the team’s fight to stay in contention, and preview the crucial upcoming matchup, plus the latest league news and standout stats as the postseason battle heats up.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs LouisvilleThe Courage faced tactical tests, tough goals, and late-season pressure in a rollercoaster match against Louisville, but even after a hard loss, there’s still plenty of fight left and hope for a playoff push.🔮 Looking Ahead: Washington SpiritThe Courage face a tough test this weekend against one of the league’s strongest teams, and every move on the field will count in this high-stakes matchup.📰 Courage NewsThe Courage are filling the stands and bringing the energy, with fans creating an electric atmosphere this season!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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Lion’s Pitch, Trevor and Katie break down the North Carolina Courage’s hard-fought 1-0 road win over Orlando Pride, highlighting standout defensive moments, emerging leadership, and the team’s growing depth. From clutch saves to goal-line heroics and a perfectly executed finishing play, the hosts analyze how sharper shooting and mental toughness are propelling the Courage in a razor-thin playoff race. They also preview the team’s upcoming must-win West Coast road test against Seattle Reign, dissecting key matchups, tactical challenges, and the pressure-packed push toward the final stretch of the season.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Orlando PrideThe Courage’s 1-0 road win over Orlando highlighted defensive grit, emerging leadership, and crucial momentum in a razor-thin playoff race.📊 Standout StatsStandout stats underscored the Courage’s progress, with sharper shooting and efficiency turning opportunities into results.🔮 Looking Ahead: Chicago StarsLooking ahead to a must-win road test in Seattle, the Courage face midfield battles, aerial threats, and playoff pressure that will define their late-season push.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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, Trevor and Katie cover inspiring team milestones to the shocking Jaedyn Shaw trade, plus a look at lineups, tactics, and what to expect in the next big match. Stay in the loop and hear the latest Courage news!In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Utah RoyalsRain, lightning, and a whirlwind of action, the Courage battle Utah in a nail-biting 1-1 draw, featuring Marissa Jordan’s stellar debut and Jaden Shaw’s clutch penalty that had fans on the edge of their seats. 🔮 Looking Ahead: Utah RoyalsWith Angel City reeling from Alyssa Thompson’s departure but still loaded with threats like Christen Press and Sveindís Jane Jónsdóttir, the Courage face a high-stakes matchup for playoff positioning. We break down key battles, lineup possibilities, and how the home-field advantage could tip the scales in this exciting East Coast showdown.📰 Courage NewsCatch this episode to hear the latest updates, milestones, and highlights from the North Carolina Courage.🌎 Around the LeagueStay up to speed on the latest NWSL news, from league updates to big moments across teams, and hear all the developments shaping the season.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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Lion’s Pitch Podcast, we drop a mini-episode as the team takes a short vacation, but we’re still bringing the preview you need for the upcoming Kansas City clash. The Courage are gearing up to face the league’s top squad, analyzing key matchups, tactical tweaks, and players to watch. From aggressive midfield plays to defensive strategies against powerhouse forwards, we break down what could tip the balance in this high-stakes showdown.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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SummaryIn this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, Sean Nahas exits, we break down Houston heartbreak, explore a listener question on throw-ins, and peek at key league shake-ups.In This Episode📰 Courage NewsThe North Carolina Courage surprised fans by abruptly parting ways with head coach Sean Nahas over vague 'performance and culture' concerns, leaving questions after a tense press conference.With Sean Nahas gone, Katie shares her pick and weighs whether the club should act now or wait for the offseason to revamp the system and offense.⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Houston DashIn a week already full of challenges, the Courage fielded an unusual lineup in Houston and struck first with a penalty, only to see the Dash pull level, then break hearts with a stoppage-time winner.📊 Standout StatsThe Courage piled up some standout stats with shots and corners flying early, but despite a strong start, the game slipped away in typical soccer fashion.🔮 Looking Ahead: San Diego WaveThe Courage head back to WakeMed to take on their fierce rivals, a team loaded with attacking firepower, and with playoff hopes still alive.📧 Listener Question SpotlightSomeone asked if the Courage have a “worse-than-average” throw-in success rate. It sparked a deeper conversation about the team’s offensive movement.🌎 Around the LeagueWe cover some exciting comings and goings in the league, including familiar faces making moves.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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SummaryIn this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, get the latest on the Courage’s midseason break games against Liga MX Femenil, learn about key player moves, and how they’re gearing up for a fresh start against San Diego. Plus, big NWSL signings and league updates that show the game’s evolving landscape. Don’t miss our midseason deep dive!In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: The Season So FarThe NC Courage faces tough decisions balancing rising young talent and veteran stars while struggling to unlock a dynamic offense with key players like Ashley Sanchez and Jaden Shaw. With a quiet transfer window and a wave of important free agents looming, the future of the team hangs in the balance. Find out what this means for their playoff hopes and beyond.Liga MX FemenilThe NC Courage showed promising offensive sparks in their Liga MX exhibition games, including the team's rare set-piece goal from Tyler Lussi and Brooklyn Courtnall's first professional score in a thrilling win over Chivas. This burst of energy and goal-scoring should boost their confidence as they head into their next official match against the San Diego Wave.🔮 Looking Ahead: San Diego WaveAfter a tough 5-2 loss to San Diego earlier this season, the Courage face a critical home match where they’ll need to rebound and adapt to San Diego’s aggressive, high-scoring style. This episode breaks down key players to watch, tactical challenges, and what the Courage can learn to turn things around in the season’s second half.🌎 Around the LeagueThis week, we highlight major NWSL moves including Mia Fishel’s long-term signing with Seattle and Boston’s exciting international additions as new teams join the league. Plus, we share our excitement for the season’s second half and look ahead to the Courage’s next challenges.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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SummaryIn this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, the Courage secure their first-ever win at LA’s BMO Stadium with a 2-1 victory over Angel City. We break down key stats, preview the upcoming Houston Dash matchup, and share the latest team and league news. Plus, enjoy a Pride interview with Grace that you won’t want to miss!The Lion’s Pitch Podcast is your go-to source for insightful, weekly coverage of the NC Courage, hosted by Katie and Trevor.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: Angel City FC 1, Courage 2A thrilling win over Angel City marked the Courage’s first-ever victory at BMO Stadium. We dive into player performances, lineup choices, and why this match felt like a turning point.📊 Standout StatsWe highlight key numbers and stats from the Angel City match that reveal how the Courage controlled the game and found success on the field.🎤 Mic'd Up: GraceDrag performer Grace (aka G Clef) joins us to talk Pride, soccer, and what it means to be visible in the world of sports. It’s an honest and inspiring conversation full of joy, resilience, and a few laughs.Follow Grace on Instagram @tori2grace🔮 Looking Ahead: Houston DashWe preview the upcoming showdown with the Houston Dash—another team running a back three—and discuss which Courage players could break through. Plus, will we finally see the return of the box midfield? Katie sure hopes so.📰 Courage NewsIrish international Denise O’Sullivan has been called up for friendlies against the USWNT and Canada. ⚽ News Around the LeagueA quiet week around the league sets the stage for upcoming national team camps and roster updates..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.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.