Photo by Justin Glatt / Orlando Soccer Journal
The Orlando Pride looked like it was heading to their first win of the year, but an equalizing goal from Denise O’Sullivan in the final play of the game for the North Carolina Courage saw the match play to a 1-1 draw during the opener of the 2023 NWSL Challenge Cup on Wednesday at Exploria Stadium.
Ally Watt scored first in the 56th minute after receiving a ball from Summer Yates to strike the ball toward the goal, which was blocked away by the keeper before the ball landed into the net for the 1-0 lead for the Pride.
The Courage almost had an opportunity to tie the game moments later when a handball was called but later waived off by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
In the final play of the game, a failed clearance from the Pride saw O’Sullivan pounce on the opportunity, striking the volley past the keeper Carly Nelson for the equalizer.
Up next, Orlando returns to regular season action against KC Current on Sunday at 5 p.m. at Children’s Mercy Park.
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