Red Stars take down front runner North Carolina

The Red Stars defeated the Courage 3-1 for Chicago's first road victory of the season.

As Sunday's match started, ball possession went back-and-forth between the two teams, both receiving promising opportunities. The first chance went to Chicago, as Christen Press chipped the ball over the Courage backline to Danielle Colaprico. The midfielder took a hard touch and North Carolina goalkeeper Sabrina D'Angelo was able to make the save in the 6-yard box.

Minutes later, the Courage were in their attacking third when reigning NWSL Save of the Week goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher was called upon, coming off her line to make a sliding save at the top of the box as the ball neared the feet of Debinha.

In the 14th minute, Naeher showed why she is one of the top goalkeepers in the world, catching a goal line chip over several players before being taken down and holding onto the ball despite the chaos.

The Red Stars would continue to apply pressure in the final third, earning multiple shots on goal. Chicago captain Christen Press was able to thread two North Carolina defenders to reach the feet of Sofia Huerta, but D'Angelo blocked the quick shot out of danger.

Chicago's strategy finally paid off in the 30th minute as Press received a ball all alone in the box, making D'Angelo come off her line to stop it, but tripping Press in the process. Press stepped up to the penalty kick and hit the ball perfectly to the side of the net, giving Chicago the 1-0 lead.

The continued attack from North Carolina would not be enough as Chicago's defense stayed consistent and stopped all chances, giving the Courage their second 3-1 defeat.