With the National Women’s Soccer League in full swing, the standings are taking shape with the top four teams within three points of each other. This week saw an eagerly anticipated clash between two sides that needed a win to keep the momentum forward. Chicago Red Stars welcomed North Carolina Courage to the SeatGeek Stadium with a record attendance of 17,388.
This tactical analysis will portray the fast-paced nature of the two sides and how one team just edged their way to three points. Both coaches opted for familiarity as the long-standing rivalry continued. The game was finely poised till Sam Kerr’s winner but head coach Rory Dames’ tactical changes at half time proved the difference.
Squad selection & line ups
North Carolina Courage opted for a 4-2-2-2 formation, looking to stifle the Red Stars midfield. They also looked to make three changes. World cup returnees Abby Dahlkemper and Sam Mewis returned to the starting line up while Jessica McDonald preferred to Kristen Hamilton up front partnering Lynn Williams. North Carolina have lost four of their eight league games against Chicago. They have only lost six times against the rest of the league combined.
Tactical analysis Attacking the channels
Much of the first half was a cagey affair between two sides trying to settle into the game. However, neither were able to really test one another until the 20th minute after which Alyssa Naeher was busier of the two goalkeepers. From that moment on, North Carolina Courage started to exert some pressure over the Red Stars.
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