The National Women's Soccer League rolls on with the 2020 Challenge Cup as Portland Thorns FC square off against the Chicago Red Stars in a rematch of a 2019 NWSL semifinal. The Thorns are coming off loss against North Carolina Courage to start their tournament while Chicago Red Stars dropped their opener to Washington Spirit.
Below you'll find out how to watch the game and what to know.
Viewing information
- Date: Wednesday, July 1
- Time: 12:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Zions Bank Stadium -- Herriman, Utah
- Live stream: CBS All Access
- Odds: Thorns +160 | Red Stars +140 | Draw +220
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Storylines
Portland Thorns FC: Head Coach Mark Parsons got to see a number of his newer players on this pitch over the weekend. A quick turnaround to face another top club in Chicago will likely see some changes for his squad though. Portland's injury report has a number of players unavailable for this match, including veteran defender Becky Sauerbrunn and first-round draft pick Sophia Smith. Goal keeper Bella Bixby impressed in her debut, but it remains to be seen if she will get a rest in this match, so look for a potential change there and for Thorns striker Simone Charley to build on her goal scoring.
Chicago Red Stars: The Red Stars are also coming off an opening day loss. Head coach Rory Dames has expressed that he intends to utilize this tournament as an opportunity for his young players to get experience while implementing minutes restrictions on others. With Julie Ertz playing a full 90 in the midfield she could move into the backline for Danielle Colaprico to slot in the midfield. The top line could see a rotation with Mexican international Katie Johnson slotting in with Yuki Nagasato and Kealia Watt.
Game prediction
Anyone's game here, but I don't think Chicago will start the tournament with back-to-back winless games. I'll say the Red Stars edge the Thorns, 2-1.
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