NWSL Challenge Cup Semifinals Preview
We’re down to the final four of the 2022 NWSL Challenge Cup, and there were some surprises, to say the least. Both Kansas City and North Carolina showed they were going to be better than advertised and made it to the semifinals. Washington was able to edge out Gotham and prove the defending champs are here and going for more hardware. Let’s take a closer look at how the NWSL Challenge Cup Semifinals could play out.
OL Reign vs. Washington Spirit, May 4, 8:00 PM ET/5:00 PM PT, CBS Sports Network
The OL Reign and Washington Spirit have played some tight matches against each other over the last couple of years. Both teams match up well with each other. The Spirit represents the future of the NWSL, with their young core of talent only getting better. On the flip side, the OL Reign have plenty of young talent, but their stars, such as Jessica Fishlock, Rose Lavelle, and Sofia Huerta, play a much bigger role.
These two teams just played their NWSL regular-season opener just a few days ago, which adds to the intrigue of this matchup. How will both teams adjust to the tactics after playing each other a couple of days prior? The Spirit won 2-1, and this is something the OL Reign will be eager to correct with a little more at stake this time around.
While the OL Reign finished the game with more possession, Washington created many more opportunities with 12 shots on target to the Reign’s three. Giving Washington extra space is never a good idea, especially on the counter, and if the OL Reign try to possess and push high up the pitch, they’ll get punished. I believe the OL Reign learn from the recent loss and edge the Spirit 1-0 to get to the final.
Prediction: OL Reign advances 1-0
Kansas City Current vs. North Carolina Courage May 4, 8:30 PM ET/5:30 PM PT, Paramount+
The two aforementioned surprises of the tournament will square off for a spot in the final. This is a fun matchup because players from both teams will be familiar with each other. Kristen Hamilton faces her former team, and it’s a shame they won’t have Sam Mewis and Lynn Williams to go against the Courage either. Both teams have done a great job of rebuilding and almost seem to be ahead of schedule.
While the Current is playing so incredibly well as a team and have shown they will be very competitive this year, North Carolina should be favored going into this game. Debinha is one of the best in the world and a clear MVP candidate; she will dominate this game.
Not only that, the Current has to contend with a healthy Taylor Smith and new Brazilian starlet Karolin. The Current has an experienced backline with Adrianna Franch in goal. They’ll be ready, but I’m taking the Courage to get this done.
Prediction: Courage advances 2-1
Featured image via @nwsl on Instagram
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