On August 5, the Courage clinched the 2018 NWSL Shield for the second consecutive season after a 2–1 win over Portland.

[3] On September 22, North Carolina defeated the Portland Thorns 3-0 to win the 2018 NWSL Championship and completed one of the most successful seasons for a professional women's soccer team in the United States.

[4] Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

As defending 2017 Shield winners and playoff finalists, the Courage were selected to participate in the inaugural Women's International Champions Cup.

They defeated French side Paris Saint-Germain Women in the semi-final round and French side and defending UEFA Women's Champions League titleholders Lyon Women in the final at Miami Garden's Hard Rock Stadium to become the first ever champions of the event.