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Cary Today
By the People, for the People
Courage and Thorns play to 2-2 draw
North Carolina and Portland battle to a high-scoring tie in NWSL action
Apr. 5, 2026 at 1:36am
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The North Carolina Courage and Portland Thorns played to a 2-2 draw in a thrilling NWSL match at First Horizon Stadium in Cary, North Carolina. Reilyn Turner and Olivia Moultrie scored for the Thorns, while Manaka Matsukubo and Ashley Sanchez found the net for the Courage.
Why it matters
The draw keeps both teams in the middle of the NWSL standings, with the Courage and Thorns looking to make a push for the playoffs in the second half of the season. The high-scoring affair showcased the attacking talent on both sides and the competitiveness of the league.
The details
The Thorns struck first in the 12th minute when Reilyn Turner headed home a cross from Jayden Perry. The Courage equalized in the 28th minute through Manaka Matsukubo, who scored her fourth goal in as many games. Olivia Moultrie put the Thorns back in front five minutes later, but Ashley Sanchez leveled the score at 2-2 in the 37th minute.
- The match was played on April 4, 2026.
- Reilyn Turner scored in the 12th minute.
- Manaka Matsukubo scored in the 28th minute.
- Olivia Moultrie scored in the 33rd minute.
- Ashley Sanchez scored in the 37th minute.
The players
Reilyn Turner
A forward for the Portland Thorns who opened the scoring in the 12th minute.
Manaka Matsukubo
A midfielder for the North Carolina Courage who scored the equalizer in the 28th minute, marking her fourth straight game with a goal.
Olivia Moultrie
A midfielder for the Portland Thorns who restored the Thorns' lead in the 33rd minute.
Ashley Sanchez
A midfielder for the North Carolina Courage who scored the second equalizer for the Courage in the 37th minute.
Carly Wickenheiser
A midfielder for the North Carolina Courage who recorded her first assist for the team.
What they’re saying
“Manaka Matsukubo is the first player in NWSL history with multiple three-game scoring streaks before turning 22.”
— NC Courage Communications
“The draw keeps both teams in the middle of the NWSL standings, with the Courage and Thorns looking to make a push for the playoffs in the second half of the season.”
— NC Courage Communications
What’s next
Both teams will look to build on this result as they continue their NWSL campaigns. The Courage and Thorns will face off again later in the season, with that match likely to have playoff implications.
The takeaway
This high-scoring draw showcased the attacking talent and competitiveness of the NWSL, with both the Courage and Thorns demonstrating their ability to find the back of the net. The result keeps both teams in the middle of the standings, setting the stage for an exciting second half of the season as they push for a playoff spot.
