North Carolina Courage dominate San Diego Wave FC 4-1

2:05

Morgan ready to pass the torch to the next generation after retirement

Alex Morgan says she is "at peace" with her retirement and reflects on her favourite memory from her final match.

Updated: Sep 9, 2024, 09:41 am

The North Carolina Courage, led by a stellar performance from Malia Berkely, defeated the San Diego Wave FC 4-1 at Snapdragon Stadium on Sunday. 

It was the final game in the nearly 14-year career of USWNT star Alex Morgan. The two-time World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist played 15 minutes, exiting in the first half. Her shot on goal in the 10th minute was saved by Courage goalie Casey Murphy.


Haley Hopkins opened the scoring for North Carolina in the fourth minute with a header assisted by Berkely. Despite an equalizer from Kennedy Wesley of San Diego in the 13th minute, North Carolina quickly regained control.

Felicitas Rauch put North Carolina ahead again in the 21st minute with another header, also assisted by Berkely. Bianca St-Georges extended the lead just before halftime with a right-footed shot into the bottom right corner following a third assist from Berkely.

San Diego's efforts were further hampered when goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan received a red card in the second half. Meredith Speck sealed the victory for North Carolina with a goal in stoppage time, assisted by Olivia Wingate.

For San Diego (3-7-9), Wesley was the standout player, contributing defensively as well as on offense.

On North Carolina's side (10-1-8), Casey Murphy made three saves to keep her team comfortably ahead.

Up next: The San Diego Wave FC will face off against the Utah Royals FC on Sept. 14 at America First Field at 7 p.m., while the North Carolina Courage will host Bay FC on Sept. 13 at WakeMed Soccer Park at 4 p.m.

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