Matildas World Cup hero signs three-year deal with US NWSL club

Matildas winger Cortnee Vine has signed a three-year contract with North Carolina Courage in the United States’ National Women’s Soccer League, sealing her club future until the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

It is a first move away from the A-League Women competition for Vine, 26, after a trophy-laden stint with Sydney FC.

The explosive winger netted 30 goals in 65 matches for the Sky Blues.

Once her US visa is rubber-stamped, Vine will be eligible to play for the Courage from August 1.

But she is unlikely to link up with the club until after the Matildas’ Paris Olympics campaign has concluded.

“The biggest reason I’m excited to join the Courage is their style of play,” Vine said in a statement.

“They play beautiful, possession-based football. And I’m excited to be part of the culture.”

Vine’s stunning domestic form with Sydney FC, after stints at Brisbane Roar, Newcastle Jets and the Wanderers, earned her a shot with the Matildas.

She scored the dramatic winning penalty in last year’s World Cup quarterfinal shootout win over France.

Sydney FC confirmed on Friday Vine had played her last match for the club after leading the Sky Blues to a second-straight grand final victory.

“We are thrilled to add Cortnee to our club,” Courage coach Sean Nahas said in a statement.

“She has great international experience and can come in and instantly help us day in and day out.

“In my conversations with her, she is eager to learn and help in any way she can, both on and off the field.

“She has a very high soccer IQ and always looks to threaten in the final third.

“She’s an explosive player both on and off the ball and will fit in perfectly with our style of play.”

AAP