Photo Credit: Jaylynn Nash-Imagn Images
The North Carolina Courage triumphed over the Orlando Pride with an emphatic 5-0 victory at WakeMed Soccer Park on Friday night, marking the largest margin of victory in the NWSL this season. This win was vital for the Courage after they suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to the Utah Royals in their last match.
Leading the charge for North Carolina was forward Evelyn Ijeh, who made history as the first Swedish player to score a hat trick in the NWSL. With three goals on the night, Ijeh has now reached a total of seven goals this season. Her performance was not the only highlight, as the Courage enjoyed several significant contributions from their teammates.
Lauryn Thompson opened the scoring in the fourth minute, netting her first professional goal and becoming the youngest player to score for the Courage in NWSL history. Thompson’s impressive performance continued as she assisted Ijeh’s second goal. Meanwhile, England international Erica Meg Parkinson set up Thompson’s initial strike, marking an important milestone as the first assist for the 18-year-old since her summer transfer, creating just the third teenager-to-teenager goal in NWSL history.
Ashley Sanchez rounded off the scoring with her tenth goal of the season, ensuring her position as a strong contender for the Golden Boot. She also provided the assist for Ijeh’s opening goal, showcasing her playmaking abilities in addition to her scoring prowess.
Another notable return for North Carolina was team captain Natalie Jacobs, who made her first start since March 21 after recovering from injury. Additionally, Vilde Bøe Risa, a Norwegian midfielder who joined the Courage just this week, made her NWSL debut in the 82nd minute, adding depth to the squad as they look to maintain their momentum in the league.
