UKG NWSL Challenge Cup: Breaking down the last four teams remaining
No. 4 seed: Racing Louisville (4-0-2)
Division: Central
Semifinal opponent: OL Reign
Through weeks three and four of the Challenge Cup, it looked like the Kentucky side was going to run away with the Central Division. Kim Björkegren’s team outscored its opponents 10-2 after four match weeks by way of a team effort. Seven different Racing players converted a chance during that dominant run.
Since that win over the Chicago Red Stars where Paige Monaghan netted a goal-of-the-season contender, Louisville has been held scoreless in cup games. The offside flag denied Racing threes goals in those matches including two in Kansas City which would have gifted it the lead at the time. Hamilton and the Current capitalized, finishing two chances in the final nine minutes plus stoppage time to seal the Central Division.
Getting better every day 📈 pic.twitter.com/2irvuM6E2y
— Racing Louisville FC (@RacingLouFC) August 9, 2023
Björkegren’s team while in poor form now, should be ready to tackle the Reign on the road with its World Cup players back in the fold. When running on all cylinders, this team has been one of the most dangerous in the entire league. The wing backs of Lauren Milliet, and Carsen Pickett cause consistent havoc while Jaelin Howell continues to dominate in the middle of the park with her unmatched physicality. Even with the slide toward the end, Racing deserved to get in. The stability of Abby Erceg, and Katie Lund allows for the creativity from DeMelo, and Thembi Kgatlana going forward. The Reign are going to have their hands full when it comes time for the semifinals.
The National Women’s Soccer League regular season resumes on Friday, August 18 when OL Reign visits Kansas City Current at 8:00 p.m. EST on Paramount+.