NWSL returns to Radio-Canada Sports

A total of 12 teams make up the largest women’s professional league in the United States. North Carolina Courage is one of the powerhouses. The team has won the NWSL Shield three times (2017, 2018 and 2019), awarded the team with the best season record, and the playoffs twice (2018 and 2019).

In 2021, Courage struggled to get off the field with the dismissal of head coach Paul Riley, amid allegations of sexual harassment. Two players, Sinead Farrelly and Meleana Shim, reported him publicly.

Again this season, Courage can count on exceptional Brazilian midfielder Debinha.

French international Valérie Gauvin, who played for English club Everton, where she scored 17 goals in 37 games, also joined the group. We also have to watch another newcomer to the attack, the young Brazilian Kerolin Nicoli.

Carolina’s defense relies on experienced Malia Berkely, a member of the American team that won bronze at the Olympic Games in Tokyo and was on loan from Girondins de Bordeaux in the French first division.

Although the Carolina team has gained success over the years, it needs to be wary of this newcomer to the championship, Angel City FC, a team that is 100% owned by women, including actresses. that Natalie Portman and Eva Longoria, tennis players Serena Williams and the legendary Billie Jean King, ski champion Lindsey Vonn, not to mention soccer player Mia Hamm.

This expansion team did not save on cost by bringing in high-caliber players such as American midfielder Savannah McCaskill and defender and Canadian Olympic gold medalist Vanessa Gilles, who play in Bordeaux, France.

The biggest catch was undoubtedly American striker Christen Press, a two -time World Cup champion who played for Manchester United. According to LA Timeshis two -year contract with an option year is worth $ 550,000, which would make him the highest paid player in NWSL history.

Good start to the season!