In a tense match during Week 23 of the MLS season, Charlotte FC emerged victorious at TQL Stadium, defeating FC Cincinnati with a score of 1-0. The decisive moment came in the 39th minute of the second half when Wilfried Zaha found the back of the net, sealing the win for the visitors.
Despite dominating possession and registering a total of 17 shots, FC Cincinnati struggled to convert their opportunities, managing to place only 7 on target while the remaining 10 went wide. This lack of finishing touch ultimately cost them the match.
Wilfried Zaha’s performance was a highlight, earning him the title of man of the match. He not only scored the crucial goal but also took 2 shots aimed at increasing the team’s tally.
Another standout player was Kristijan Kahlina, the goalkeeper for Charlotte FC, who displayed exceptional skill by saving 6 shots from the Cincinnati attackers, ensuring his team’s clean sheet.
On the Cincinnati side, manager Pat Noonan set up his squad in a 4-5-1 formation, with Roman Celentano guarding the goal and a defensive line consisting of DeAndre Yedlin, Miles Robinson, Matt Miazga, and Lukas Ahlefeld Engel. The midfield featured Gerardo Valenzuela, Pavel Bucha, Brian Anunga, Luca Orellano, and Evander, with Kei Kamara leading the attack.
Dean Smith’s Charlotte FC lineup also adopted a 4-5-1 formation, featuring Kahlina in goal, supported by defenders Bill Tuiloma, Adilson Malanda, Tim Ream, and Nathan Byrne. The midfield comprised Brandt Bronico, Djibril Diani, Kerwin Vargas, Wilfried Zaha, and Liel Abada, with Idan Toklomati at the front.
Filip Dujic officiated the match at TQL Stadium.
Looking ahead, FC Cincinnati will travel to face the Portland Timbers, while Charlotte FC is set to host Real Salt Lake in their next fixture.
Substitutions for FC Cincinnati
45’ 2T – Luca Orellano was replaced by Ender Echenique
72’ 2T – Kei Kamara was substituted off for Bradley Smith, while Gerardo Valenzuela was replaced by Stiven Jimenez
87’ 2T – DeAndre Yedlin made way for Alvas Powell, Nathan Byrne was substituted for Nicholas Scardina, and Lukas Ahlefeld Engel went off for Kévin Denkey
Booked players for FC Cincinnati:
16’ 2T Lukas Ahlefeld Engel, 18’ 2T Gerardo Valenzuela, 36’ 2T Roman Celentano, 51’ 2T Evander
Sent off player for FC Cincinnati:
24’ 2T Brian Anunga (Straight red card)
Substitutions for Charlotte FC
51’ 2T – Bill Tuiloma was replaced by Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty
79’ 2T – Liel Abada was substituted off for Eryk Williamson
Booked players for Charlotte FC:
37’ 2T Eryk Williamson, 51’ 2T Kerwin Vargas