In a high-stakes NWSL matchup on June 8, the Washington Spirit delivered a gutsy 2-1 win over the North Carolina Courage at Audi Field, rallying from behind to secure three crucial points in the playoff race.
The match began with both teams feeling each other out, trading possession but offering few clear chances. The Courage struck first in the 27th minute when Tyler Lussi capitalized on a defensive lapse and slotted a low shot past Spirit goalkeeper Aubrey Kingsbury. That early lead gave North Carolina confidence, and they held steady through the first half with disciplined pressing and compact midfield play.
Washington, however, responded with urgency in the second half. In the 59th minute, Trinity Rodman broke down the left flank, cutting inside and forcing a diving save. The rebound fell to Ashley Hatch, who calmly buried it to equalize, marking her sixth goal of the season.
The Spirit’s energy surged from there. Despite Courage attempts to regain control, the Spirit’s midfield trio of Sullivan, Staab, and Metayer began to dominate possession. The decisive moment came in the 83rd minute when Croix Bethune, recently subbed on, launched a curling effort from outside the box that found the top right corner—her first professional goal and the eventual game-winner.
The Courage fought back with late set pieces, but Kingsbury held firm, including a crucial save in stoppage time. The win marked Washington’s third straight at home and extended their unbeaten streak to five.
With the victory, the Spirit climbed the table and continued to show the league that their young core is ready to contend. NC Courage, meanwhile, will look to rebound quickly after letting a lead slip away on the road.
