The Orlando Pride are set to hit the road following a frustrating 1-0 defeat to the Portland Thorns. With a current record of 5-2-0 and 15 points, the Pride are preparing to face the North Carolina Courage, who have struggled this season with a record of 2-3-2 and 8 points.
Orlando’s head coach, Seb Hines, acknowledges the challenges of playing in North Carolina, stating, “Always a difficult place to go play. It’s always been a challenge there the way North Carolina like to play. We’re looking to bounce back from our recent result as well so it’s an exciting game.” The Pride are eager to return to their scoring ways, having averaged two goals per game this season, with the loss to Portland marking only their second scoreless outing.
Historically, facing the Courage has been tough for the Pride, who hold a record of 7-14-7 against them, with their last victory at North Carolina occurring in 2022. Hines remains optimistic in preparing the team, emphasizing a return to their core strengths to disrupt their opponents.
Defensively, Orlando has been strong this season, but the Courage come into the match on a scoring spree, having netted five goals in their last two games. Defender Emily Sams expressed confidence in the team’s defensive readiness, highlighting the importance of morale and teamwork in overcoming recent disappointments.
A victory on the road could significantly boost the Pride’s confidence as they aim to improve and showcase their high-level play from earlier in the season. “We’re just excited and I think we have a lot more levels to go up to,” Sams noted. “We’re all disappointed with how the last couple of games have been going and so we’re eager and competitive in training.”
Orlando will face off against the North Carolina Courage at First Horizon Stadium this Saturday at 7:30 PM, with hopes of turning their recent frustrations into a renewed success. The anticipation for this match is high, and with a determined mindset, the Pride aim to resurgence and reclaim their winning ways.