The National Women's Soccer League Challenge Cup quarterfinals get underway Friday. The top-seeded North Carolina Courage take on No. 8 Portland Thorns FC in the first match of the round.
Below you'll find out how to watch the game and what to know.
Viewing information
- Date: Friday, July 17
- Time: 12:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Zions Bank Stadium -- Herriman, Utah
- Live stream: CBS All Access
- Odds: Courage -167; Thorns +400; Draw +260
So who wins the NWSL Challenge Cup? And which long shot could stun the soccer world? Visit SportsLine now to see the model's picks for the NWSL Challenge Cup, all from the proprietary European soccer model that's up an eye-popping 13,800 percent!
How do I get CBS All Access?
Don't worry. Signing up is simple! You simply go to the CBS All Access landing page and pick the plan you want to purchase. Or just click here if you want to go straight to the free one-week trial and input the proper information.
Where and how can I use CBS All Access?
Apple TV, Android, iPad, Roku, Google Chrome, PlayStation 4, Xbox, Windows 10 and Amazon Fire TV all have CBS All Access capability, meaning you can stream games from the comfort of your home or on the go. You can also download the CBS app through various app stores or by clicking here.
Storylines
North Carolina Courage: Head coach Paul Riley and his championship squad were undefeated in group play and are entering the knockout stage somehow feeling like they have another level to hit. The team is facing a familiar playoff rival in Portland and the two teams have typically matched up in physical games. The Courage will want to score early against the Thorns, who have found themselves struggling in front of goal this tournament.
Portland Thorns FC: Portland has had its share of scoring woes like so many other teams this tournament, but an impressive Challenge Cup debut from goal keeper Bella Bixby has kept the team afloat with three draws in four games. If the Thorns can manage to not only sustain, but break through Carolina's press, they can bring some chaos to the knockout round.
Game prediction
The Thorns will bring their best, but the Courage could take things over after the first hydration break.
Prediction: North Carolina Courage, 3-1.
