International

Thorns FC Abroad | Mana Shim and Iga FC advance in Empress Cup, NCAA College Cup approaches

2015 Nike Thorns soccer ball

Here’s a look at Portland Thorns FC players abroad and some other updates around the world of women’s soccer:

Nadeshiko League: Shim, Iga FC compete in Empress Cup
Following the conclusion of league play, Mana Shim and Iga FC opened Empress Cup play in the second round of the tournament against Osakataiikudaigaku, earning a 3-0 win. Shim subbed into the match in the second half and played 45 minutes.


Up Next: Iga squares off against Speranza FC Takatsuki in the third round of the Empress Cup on Nov. 21.


W-League: Catley and Melbourne City continue winning ways
Steph Catley and Melbourne City FC made it five straight wins last weekend and sit alone on top the W-League table with 15 points – eight points clear of three teams tied for second place. Melbourne City FC earned a 2-0 win against Adelaide United as Catley started and played 90 minutes.
Match Report


Up Next: Melbourne City FC plays Brisbane on Nov. 21.


Western Sydney Wanderers moved into a tie for second place in the W-League, following a 3-1 win against the Melbourne Victory. Kendall Johnson did not feature in the match.
Match Report


Up Next: The Wanderers have a bye this coming weekend and will travel to take on Canberra United on Nov. 29.


Clare Polkinghorne and the Brisbane Roar suffered a 2-0 defeat against Perth Glory. Polkinghorne logged 90 minutes in a starting role in the loss.
Match Report


Up Next: Brisbane takes on league-leaders Melbourne City FC on Nov. 21.


Michelle Betos and Sydney FC enjoyed a bye week last week and return to action this week against Canberra United on Nov. 21.


NCAA to crown NCAA Women’s Soccer Champion on Dec. 6 in Cary
Interactive Bracket


The 2015 NCAA Women’s College Cup kicked off last Friday and will continue until a champion is crowned on Dec. 6 in Cary, N.C.


Defending champions Florida State advanced to the second round with a 3-0 win against Evansville. The Seminoles play host to South Alabama on Friday. In addition, the 2014 runners-up Virginia earned a comfortable 7-1 win against Howard in the first round. The Cavaliers host UNC-Wilmington on Friday in the second round.


READ:5 Things You Need to Know From the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament


Third round games are set to take place this Sunday while the Elite 8 round matches are set for Nov. 27 and 28. The Final Four will meet in Cary beginning with semifinals matches on Dec. 4.


USWNT returns to action in December
Many U.S. Women’s National Team players enjoyed a nice break during the month of November, but the U.S. is back in action with four more games to finish its Victory Tour in December – hosting Trinidad & Tobago for a pair matches and China twice as well.


For a complete schedule, click here.