The Utah Royals FC heads into Sunday’s game against the Chicago Red Stars coming off a disappointing loss.
The Royals gave up a goal in stoppage time to Sky Blue FC and failed to score themselves for the first time in the tournament. The game against the Red Stars is Utah’s final game before the quarterfinal round of the National Women’s Soccer League Challenge Cup, and the last chance to regain some mojo.
Because after that game, it’s win or go home.
Chicago has yet to win a game in the tournament, although it did play the Portland Thorns to a scoreless draw in Game 2 of the preliminary round. But the Red Stars are also searching for momentum, and may be more desperate than the Royals.
Royals defender Rachel Corsie said Friday that the team is in a “great position,” but is still disappointed overall after conceding three goals in its first game and giving up the late goal against Sky Blue.
“We haven’t felt like we’ve given a complete performance yet,” Corsie said. “I think that’s a good thing because the games ahead are the ones that ultimately have more importance and we need to step up. We’re on that path.”