Why North Carolina Courage could secure 1st win against unbeaten KC Current | OneFootball

The Courage has failed to win this season and sits in last place with two points, 13 points behind the league-leading KC Current side they host this Saturday night.

But don't count out the Carolinians from finally earning their first win of 2025 against their toughest opponent to date. Here's how they might do it:

The Courage haver the quality to break through KC's defense

The Courage attack and Current defense was supposed to be a meeting of strength against strength, but only the Current rearguard has produced so far.

That doesn't mean the Courage aren't capable, especially after an offseason move for forward Jaedyn Shaw. Shaw has not scored for North Carolina yet, but she has the potential to become the team's focal point for the attack after scoring 13 goals in three seasons for San Diego and setting up numerous more. It's just a matter of time before she breaks through for her new club.

Meanwhile, midfielder Ashley Sanchez can also provide a threat, as she showed last season with five goals in her first season with the Courage. She's also still scoreless in 2025, with quality that won't stay quiet forever.

Neutralize the Current's Attacking Threats

Washington Spirit v Kansas City Current | Brad Smith/ISI Photos/GettyImages

On the other half of the pitch, the Courage will need to ensure that Kansas City's goal scorers are tracked closely throughout the encounter. They'll be particularly familiar with Debinha, who previously played with Carolina and now has three goals in her third season in Kansas City.

Striker Temwa Chawinga also has three goals in five matches as she makes a bid to follow up on the 21 she scored in 27 games in her MLS debut campaign.

Michelle Cooper will be returning to the region where she played collegiately at Duke, looking to add to her two-goal total. If she does, she'll match a career-high.

Can the Courage Finally Get Their Win?

Courage fans will need their top players to step up and create big chances, something they've struggled to do all season.

Shaw and Sanchez have the potential to link up and break down a strong Current defense and beat shot-stopper Lorena, who has come up big for Kansas City.

The Current may be a more confident side after their much stronger start. But the Courage also knows Saturday could provide the exact kind of result needed to turn their slow start around.