The NWSL Challenge Cup is now poised for the final games of the preliminary round. How did we get here and what do the Red Stars need to avoid playing North Carolina in the first round? Plus a few thoughts on the Red Stars 1-0 to the Courage and how they should approach Sunday's game vs Utah.

MLSisBack got started last night with a tremendously impactful demonstration from Black Players For Change, followed by a sloppy 2-1 win for Orlando City, followed this morning by more moving gestures, this time from the Philadelphia Union who went on to beat NYCFC 1-0.

Also, what the heck is going on with the Fire and who are they playing (I didn't know at time of recording) as Nashville and Dallas have both been withdrawn due to a high number of positive COVID tests.

Finally, Meredith Cash from Insider joins the show to talk about her reporting on the anthem protests and possibility of fans being brought into the NWSL bubble as well as her thoughts on Rory Dames' strategy so far, Shea Groom's vertical, and what to expect from the knockout stage.

Follow Meredith on Twitter @mercash22

Follow Alex on Twitter @alex_s_campbell

Follow the show on Twitter @soccer_cast

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