Dash host North Carolina Courage under Friday night lights: What to watch for
(image via Houston Dash)
The Houston Dash are back at Shell Energy Stadium tonight to take on the North Carolina Courage. North Carolina ran away 5-1 winners in the previous match between these two teams on the opening weekend of the 2024 season.
When: Friday, May 24 | 7:00 PM CT
Where: Shell Energy Stadium; Houston, Texas
TV/Stream: NWSL+/Space City Home Network 2
Long-Awaited Debut
Since April 23, Dash fans have eagerly anticipated the arrival of Brazilian defender Tarciane, the club’s record transfer signing. With high expectations resting on her shoulders to bolster the backline, her youth promises an enduring presence for the next four seasons. As the defense coalesces, players are adapting to new additions like Paige Nielsen, whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping the backline. Tarciane's inclusion brings a raw talent that ignites excitement among both the team and its supporters. Head coach Fran Alonso said Thursday that the Brazilian will make her debut tonight, giving fans their first look at the imposing center back.
Winless Home Streak
Traditionally, playing at home offers a significant advantage—supportive fans, familiar surroundings, and a comfort zone. However, for the Dash, the opposite holds true. Since July 29, 2023, when they clinched a victory at home against Racing Louisville in the NWSL Challenge Cup, and June 3rd, 2023, in regular league play against Orlando Pride, they've haven’t gotten a win on their home turf. Should the Dash fail to triumph against NC Courage, it will mark over a full year since their last home victory in front of their fans. This trend is crying out to be halted tonight to prevent it from becoming ingrained in the team's culture.
Streaky Courage
Shifting focus to the Courage, their recent form has mirrored the Dash's inconsistency. They kicked off the season impressively, winning three out of their first five matches. However, in their last five outings, they've suffered three defeats. Their unpredictable form sees them oscillating between moments of brilliance and patches of misfortune. In this rematch against the Courage, the Dash aim to capitalize on their opponent's current downturn in form and get themselves just their third win of 2024.
Availability Report
Houston Dash – Out: Allysha Chapman (maternity leave), Ryan Gareis (meternity leave), Katie Lind (maternity leave), Elin Rubensson (thigh), Havana Solaun (knee), Kiki Van Zanten (SEI - foot), Cece Kizer (knee)
North Carolina Courage – Out: Kerolin (SEI - knee), Syndey Collins (D45), Estelle Johnson (maternity leave), Denise O’Sullivan (leg), Dani Weatherholt (leg), Olivia Wingate (leg)
Predicted Lineup
