In a thrilling match during week 21, Pep Biel proved to be the star of the night, scoring two goals that led to Charlotte FC’s 2-1 victory over DC United on Wednesday at Bank of America Stadium.
Charlotte FC established early dominance, racing to a 2-0 lead thanks to the efforts of Pep Biel. He opened the scoring with a precise finish just before halftime at the 43rd minute, and doubled the advantage shortly after the break with a well-placed shot in the 47th minute.
DC United managed to pull one back through Gabriel Pirani in the 59th minute, igniting hopes of a comeback in the stadium. Pirani’s goal followed a slick assist from Randall Leal, as he found the bottom left corner with a powerful drive.
Pep Biel was clearly the standout performer on the pitch, attempting a total of 5 shots in addition to his two goals. Kerwin Vargas also made his presence felt, recording 2 attempts on goal.
Charlotte FC’s coach, Dean Smith, set up his team in a 4-3-3 formation. The lineup included Kristijan Kahlina as goalkeeper, with Bill Tuiloma, Adilson Malanda, Tim Ream, and Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty forming the defense. The midfield was anchored by Ashley Westwood, Pep Biel, and Djibril Diani, while the attack featured Liel Abada, Idan Toklomati, and Wilfried Zaha.
On the opposing side, DC United, managed by Kevin Flanagan, adopted a 4-5-1 setup. Luis Barraza guarded the net, accompanied by defenders Conner Antley, Garrison Tubbs, Kye Rowles, and Derek Dodson. In midfield, they had Matti Peltola, Gabriel Pirani, Jackson Hopkins, Brandon Servania, and João Peglow, with Dominique Badji leading the attack.
The match was officiated by referee Christopher Penso.
Looking ahead, Charlotte FC will face Atlanta United in their next fixture, while DC United will travel to play against Columbus Crew.
Substitutions for Charlotte FC
68’ 2H – Djibril Diani replaced by Brandt Bronico, Wilfried Zaha replaced by Kerwin Vargas, and Bill Tuiloma replaced by Nicholas Scardina.
79’ 2H – Liel Abada substituted for Tyger Smalls.
90’ 2H – Idan Toklomati substituted for Brandon Cambridge.
Substitutions for DC United
45’ 2H – Jackson Hopkins replaced by Randall Leal, and Conner Antley replaced by Boris Enow.
64’ 2H – Dominique Badji replaced by Hosei Kijima.
82’ 2H – Derek Dodson substituted for Jared Stroud.
87’ 2H – Gabriel Pirani replaced by Rida Zouhir.
Booking for DC United:
36’ 1H – Jackson Hopkins (Foul preventing opponent’s progression)