Thorns FC host Racing Louisville FC on Saturday at Providence Park, with both clubs looking to capture their first win of the regular season. Get your notes, numbers and a preview on Saturday's matchup.
Portland Thorns FC remain at home as they host Racing Louisville FC on Saturday night. Kickoff from Providence Park is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. (Pacific), with a national broadcast available on ION.
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The Opponent: Racing Louisville FC (10th, 0-0-2, 2pts)
Saturday's opponent is also looking for their its win of the season. Following draws against Orlando Pride and at Houston Dash, Racing has a new challenge ahead in the Rose City.
Led by head coach Beverly Goebel Yanez, the 2021 expansion club steps into Providence Park looking to build on the last result between the two clubs. On Sept. 2, 2023, Racing earned their first victory over the Thorns in NWSL play with a 2-1 scoreline at Lynn Family Stadium.
Forward Elexa Bahr leads the way for Louisville in 2024, with a goal and an assist through two matches. With a supporting cast consisting of forwards Reilyn Turner and Uchenna Kanu, Louisville will be a threat on offense. On the defensive end, midfielder/defender Taylor Kornieck will hold things down, she leads the club in clearances per match (5.5) and interceptions per 90 minutes (4.5).
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Notes & Numbers:
No. 9
Thorns FC's superstar – No. 9 Sophia Smith – has inked a new deal that keeps her at the club through 2025. She currently is tied for first in the Golden Boot race (2), leads the league in shots per 90 minutes (5.5), and leads the club in shots on target per 90 minutes (2.7).
5-1-0
Saturday marks the seventh all-time meeting between Portland and Louisville. Since their first matchup back on June 5, 2021 (a 3-0 victory for Portland), the Thorns have kept control of the series, recording five wins, one loss, and no draws. Portland's goal differential is an astonishing +10, having only allowed three Racing goals all-time.
Smith & Weaver
Over the last couple years it has been two Thorns that have inflicted the most damage to the Portland-Louisville scoreline. In their last four matches, either Sophia Smith or **Morgan Weaver** have found the back of the net for the Thorns (two goals each).
GOALFEST
When Portland and Louisville go to battle, sparks are sure to fly. In all six matches thus far, there have been at least over 1.5 goals scored by the end of each match. In fact, in four of the six matches the result has reflected over 2.5 total goals scored.
