North Carolina Courage secured a 3-1 victory over Seattle Reign on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at First Horizon Stadium in Cary, ending the Reign’s three‑game winning streak against the club.

How did the match unfold?

The game kicked off under a scorching 95‑degree sun, and the early tempo favored Seattle. Forward Mia Fishel threaded a low pass to Sofia Huerta, who set up Sally Menti for her first goal of the season in the 19th minute. Menti celebrated by rubbing her arms, joking about the heat. Seattle answered quickly, with Sam Meza’s sloppy giveaway allowing Ashley Sanchez to equalise in the 22nd minute, her shot deflecting off Jordyn Bugg.

What turned the tide for the Courage?

Momentum shifted after a penalty in the 64th minute. Reign defender Madison Curry’s foul on Allyson Schlegel earned a spot‑kick, which Riley Jackson converted. The penalty sparked a surge, and Sanchez, the team's top scorer with seven goals in 12 appearances, struck again in the 71st minute, finishing a precise through ball from Shinomi Koyama. Her brace pushed the Courage ahead for good.

Why does this result matter?

The win lifts the Courage to 9th in the NWSL Women’s standings with 35 points from 26 games (9‑8‑9) and a recent form of WWDLL. They have scored 37 and conceded 39 this season, sitting 30 points behind leaders Kansas City W. Sanchez’s continued scoring streak keeps her atop the club’s charts, vital as the team chases a playoff spot.

What’s next for the Courage?

Coach Sean Nahas will look to build on the transition play highlighted by Menti’s long‑ball goal. With goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan making key saves, the squad aims to tighten its defense, which has let in 39 goals. The next fixture pits the Courage against a mid‑table opponent, offering a chance to climb the table before the season’s final stretch.

Who missed the action?

Seattle’s regular starter Claudia Dickey remained sidelined with an ankle injury sustained while on U.S. Women’s National Team duty, prompting the Reign to start Cassie Miller in goal. Miller, acquired last year, faced a tough debut as the Reign struggled to regain composure after the penalty.

The match’s heat, the penalty drama, and Sanchez’s decisive strike defined a pivotal night for North Carolina Courage as they push toward a postseason push.