Matchweek seven of the NWSL kicks off this Friday with two exciting matchups: Racing Louisville vs. Portland Thorns and Orlando Pride vs. North Carolina Courage. As teams battle for early-season momentum, here's a look at who's available—and who's sidelined—for these crucial fixtures.
For Racing Louisville, the injury report brings some challenges. Midfielder Savannah DeMelo is out due to illness, while defender Marisa DiGrande remains on maternity leave. Erynn Floyd is sidelined with a hand injury, Ellie Jean is also out with illness, and goalkeeper Olivia Sekany is on the season-ending injury list with a knee issue. No players are questionable or away on international duty.
Portland Thorns, meanwhile, are dealing with a string of knee injuries. Goalkeeper Bella Bixby, midfielder Julie Dufour, defender Caiya Hanks, and forward Morgan Weaver are all out, each listed with a knee issue—three of them on the season-ending injury list. The Thorns will need to rely on depth as they head into this road clash.
Over in Orlando, the Pride have a lengthy injury list. Kerry Abello is out with a hip issue, Hannah Anderson with illness, Zara Chavoshi with a lower leg problem, and Cosette Morche with an ankle injury listed as day-to-day. Jacquie Ovalle is sidelined with a thigh injury, Kylie Nadaner is on maternity leave, and Viviana Villacorta is out with a knee issue. No players are questionable or on international duty.
North Carolina Courage are also missing key contributors. Defender Maycee Bell is out with a knee injury, midfielder Payton Crawford is on the season-ending injury list with a knee issue, and Natalie Jacobs is sidelined with an ankle problem. Forward Olivia Wingate is also out with a knee injury on the season-ending list. No players are questionable or away on international duty.
With several key players unavailable, both matches promise to test squad depth and resilience. For fans, it's a chance to see emerging talents step up in high-stakes action. Stay tuned for more updates as matchweek seven unfolds.