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29. Final Whistle, Next Chapter
01:13:42||Season 2, Ep. 29SummaryIn this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, the Courage close the season with a thrilling win over Gotham FC, showcasing skill, cohesion, and potential despite missing the playoffs. We break down standout stats, discuss hopes and key moves for 2026, highlight team milestones, and preview the NWSL playoffs as the league’s top teams battle for the championship.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Gotham FCThe Courage closed the season with a thrilling win over Gotham, dominating with sharp passing, strategic attacks, and opportunistic finishing. Despite controlling the game and showcasing their best play of the season, the team’s fate was tied to other results, and they ultimately missed the playoffs. Still, the performance highlighted the team’s skill, cohesion, and potential heading into next year.📊 Standout StatsDespite giving up a high volume of shots—especially inside the box—the Courage’s defense held strong, blocking key opportunities and limiting real threats. Offensively, the team was efficient, converting three of their twelve shots into goals, showing precision and finishing that capped off the season on a high note.🔮 Looking Ahead: 2026 SeasonAs the Courage head into the offseason, there’s a lot to consider for 2026, from potential roster moves to key free-agent decisions. The discussion focused on hopes for a more consistent starting 11, stronger set-piece defending, spreading goal-scoring responsibilities, and adding veterans or marquee players to support the team’s young core.📰 Courage NewsThe season brought plenty of milestones and highlights for the team. Record-breaking performances, standout contributions, and individual achievements underscored the talent on the pitch and set an exciting tone as the Courage look toward 2026.🌎 Around the LeagueThe playoffs are set, and the league’s top teams are gearing up for some intense matchups. With dominant performances and late-season momentum shaping the postseason, fans can expect high-stakes action and plenty of excitement as teams vie for the championship.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell
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28. Too Late or Just in Time?
48:28||Season 2, Ep. 28SummaryIn this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, the Courage lit up the scoreboard with a historic hat trick, dominating across every stat, but is it too late to secure playoff glory? We break down the numbers, preview the do-or-die showdown against Gotham, explore key team news, and reflect on the fans' ongoing commitment to inclusivity and growth.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Bay FCThe Courage came alive behind a record-breaking hat trick from Manaka, the youngest player in league history to do it. Big win. Bigger question: Is it too late?📊 Standout StatsThe Courage dominated across the board, showing precision, control, and efficiency in every aspect of the game. From shot placement to possession and attacking in the box, the numbers tell the story of a team firing on all cylinders.🔮 Looking Ahead: Gotham FCThe Courage face a do-or-die showdown against Gotham, where every goal counts and playoff fate hinges not just on their win, but on other results around the league. Decision Day drama at its finest.📰 Courage NewsThe Courage is gearing up for the future with new additions. Exciting developments on and off the field signal a dynamic end to the season and a fresh start ahead.🌎 Around the LeagueThe week in women’s soccer reminds us that the game is bigger than scores and stats. It’s an inclusive space where players of all backgrounds belong, and it’s on all of us to protect that. Off-field developments and changes keep the league evolving, but the commitment to fairness, respect, and opportunity remains at the heart of the sport.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell
27. Rain, Drama, and a Draw
39:32||Season 1, Ep. 27SummaryIn this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, The NC Courage battle a rain-soaked Washington Spirit to a dramatic draw, with clutch plays and a dominant midfield. Plus, we break down key stats, look ahead to a must-win matchup, and share the latest league news shaping the season.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Washington SpiritThe Courage battle through rain, drama, and playoff pressure to draw the league’s No. 2 team. We break down lineup shakeups, clutch saves, and a late equalizer that keeps the postseason dream alive—barely.📊 Standout StatsThe Courage go toe-to-toe in a dead-even battle: 50/50 possession, level XG, and one fierce midfield trio stealing the show. Riley Jackson, Shinomi, and Manaka dominate the rain-soaked chaos, proving the future of the Courage is already here.🔮 Looking Ahead: San Diego WaveThe Courage face a struggling Bay FC with everything on the line, and while the opponent has nothing to lose, North Carolina has no room for error.📰 Courage NewsThe latest from the Courage highlights exciting developments on and off the field, with players making strides and fans keeping the energy high.🌎 Around the LeagueAround the league, playoff races are heating up, leadership decisions are shaping the future, and long-time players are stepping away, leaving a lasting legacy. There’s drama, growth, and change at every level.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell
26. Must Win For Really Real
36:05||Season 2, Ep. 26In this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, the NC Courage fall, but the playoff race is still mostly alive. We break down the challenges, the team’s fight to stay in contention, and preview the crucial upcoming matchup, plus the latest league news and standout stats as the postseason battle heats up.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs LouisvilleThe Courage faced tactical tests, tough goals, and late-season pressure in a rollercoaster match against Louisville, but even after a hard loss, there’s still plenty of fight left and hope for a playoff push.🔮 Looking Ahead: Washington SpiritThe Courage face a tough test this weekend against one of the league’s strongest teams, and every move on the field will count in this high-stakes matchup.📰 Courage NewsThe Courage are filling the stands and bringing the energy, with fans creating an electric atmosphere this season!About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell
25. Courage Under Pressure
49:25||Season 2, Ep. 25In this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, the NC Courage face a tough 2-0 loss to Seattle, but the playoff fight isn’t over. We break down key players, tactical shifts, and late-game struggles, then preview the must-win clash against Racing Louisville. Plus, the latest league news and standout stats keep fans in the know as the postseason push heats up.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Seattle ReignThe Courage struck first but couldn’t hold off Seattle’s late surge. We break down the highs, heartbreaks, and what this loss means for the playoff push.📊 Standout StatsSeattle’s clinical finishing stole the win despite the Courage dominating possession. We break down the stats, near-misses, and the key moments that show why this team is still fighting for a playoff spot.🔮 Looking Ahead: Racing LouisvilleWith only four games left, the Courage face a must-win showdown against Racing Louisville to secure a playoff spot. We break down the key matchups, tactical questions, and why this game could define their postseason chances.📰 Courage NewsWe’ve got the latest updates from the Courage, including standout performances and key developments shaping the team’s season.🌎 Around the LeagueFrom Kansas City clinching the Shield to a playoff race that’s still wide open, we break down the biggest NWSL storylines.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell
24. Clutch Defense, Clutch Win
35:48||Season 2, Ep. 24In this episode of the Lion’s Pitch, Trevor and Katie break down the North Carolina Courage’s hard-fought 1-0 road win over Orlando Pride, highlighting standout defensive moments, emerging leadership, and the team’s growing depth. From clutch saves to goal-line heroics and a perfectly executed finishing play, the hosts analyze how sharper shooting and mental toughness are propelling the Courage in a razor-thin playoff race. They also preview the team’s upcoming must-win West Coast road test against Seattle Reign, dissecting key matchups, tactical challenges, and the pressure-packed push toward the final stretch of the season.In This Episode⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Orlando PrideThe Courage’s 1-0 road win over Orlando highlighted defensive grit, emerging leadership, and crucial momentum in a razor-thin playoff race.📊 Standout StatsStandout stats underscored the Courage’s progress, with sharper shooting and efficiency turning opportunities into results.🔮 Looking Ahead: Chicago StarsLooking ahead to a must-win road test in Seattle, the Courage face midfield battles, aerial threats, and playoff pressure that will define their late-season push.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell
23. Sealing the Win
50:07||Season 2, Ep. 23In this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, the NC Courage are making moves, breaking records, and showing off some serious skills on the pitch in their 2-1 win against Angel City FC. From big trades to standout plays and the road ahead, we’ve got all the insights, highlights, and behind-the-scenes chatter you don’t want to miss. Tune in and catch the action!In This Episode📰 Courage NewsWe break down the Courage’s biggest roster shake-up yet — from Jaedyn Shaw’s record-breaking trade to fresh new faces and Kaleigh Kurtz’s streak-smashing milestone — and why it all sets the stage for the club’s future.”⚽ Looking Back: NC Courage vs Angel City FCFrom Manaka Matsukubo’s opener to Meredith Speck’s clever clock management, the Courage showed what happens when teamwork, strategy, and clutch plays all click at once.📊 Standout StatsWith seven of 10 shots on target and just three corners allowed, the Courage showed precision, poise, and control that could pay off in their next clash against Orlando Pride.🔮 Looking Ahead: Orlando PrideThe Courage head to Orlando ready to control the game, exploit opportunities, and prove that strategy and teamwork can beat even a tricky, talented opponent.🌎 Around the LeagueWhether it’s on-field feats or off-field developments, there’s plenty keeping fans engaged this week.About The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWelcome to The Lion’s Pitch, your go-to podcast for everything North Carolina Courage. Every week, Trevor and Katie break down the latest matches, preview upcoming opponents, discuss NC Courage news, and take a look around the NWSL. Plus, we’ll bring you bonus episodes with interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and some fun surprises along the way.New episode drops every Thursday.Subscribe & FollowSubscribe wherever you get your podcasts and find us online at lionspitch.com, follow us on Bluesky @lionspitch.bsky.social, or on Instagram @thelionspitchHosted by Trevor Knoblich and Katie ClearyProduced by Mary PruterEdited by Danielle Russell