In Week 5 of the MLS, Charlotte FC showcased their attacking prowess with a commanding 6-1 win over New York Red Bulls. The home team opened the scoring with Idan Toklomati’s header in the 13th minute, following a precise assist from Pep Biel, whose delivery found the striker just inside the box. Toklomati’s effort nestled into the top right corner past goalkeeper Ethan Horvath.
Following this, Charlotte continued to apply pressure. Goodwin, who was the standout player, netted two goals (both in the second half, at 31’ and 47’) and played a key role in the team’s success. Kerwin Vargas added another, scoring right after the break (0’ 2T) alongside Pep Biel, who converted a stunning free-kick in the 54th minute. Wilfried Zaha also got on the scoresheet with a goal in the 67th minute. For New York, Julian Hall managed to pull one back with a goal in the 80th minute, but it was too little, too late.
New York’s Ronald Donkor narrowly missed out on scoring after hitting the post twice, a frustrating evening for the visiting team. The night turned sour for the Red Bulls after Gustav Berggren received a direct red card early in the second half (7’ 2T), which effectively hindered their attempts to get back into the game.
Pep Biel was also instrumental for Charlotte FC, contributing not just with a goal but also creating numerous opportunities, attempting multiple shots on target.
In tactical setups, Charlotte FC utilized a 4-3-3 formation under coach Dean Smith. Kristijan Kahlina guarded the goal, while the backline consisted of Nathan Byrne, Tim Ream, Morrison Agyemang, and Harry Toffolo. The midfield included Ashley Westwood, Pep Biel, and Djibril Diani, supporting a forward trio of Wilfried Zaha, Kerwin Vargas, and Idan Toklomati.
On the other side, New York Red Bulls, managed by Michael Bradley, also fielded a 4-3-3 formation with Ethan Horvath in goal, protected by Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, Gustav Berggren, Robert Voloder, and Matthew Dos Santos in defense. The midfield featured Adri Mehmeti, Ronald Donkor, and Emil Forsberg, with Cade Cowell, Jorge Ruvalcaba, and Julian Hall leading the front line.
The match was officiated by referee Allen Chapman.
Looking ahead, Charlotte FC will face Philadelphia Union in their next outing, while New York Red Bulls will host FC Cincinnati at Sports Illustrated Stadium.
Substitutions for Charlotte FC
65’ 2T – Kerwin Vargas off for Liel Abada, Djibril Diani off for Luca de la Torre
74’ 2T – Idan Toklomati off for Archie Goodwin, Harry Toffolo off for David Schnegg
82’ 2T – Pep Biel off for Brandt Bronico
Bookings for Charlotte FC
19’ 1T Djibril Diani (Unsporting behavior)
Substitutions for New York Red Bulls
45’ 2T – Matthew Dos Santos off for Omar Valencia
55’ 2T – Adri Mehmeti off for Tim Parker, Cade Cowell off for Mohammed Sofo
76’ 2T – Jorge Ruvalcaba off for Tanner Rosborough
Bookings for New York Red Bulls
31’ 2T Ronald Donkor (Unsporting behavior)
Red Cards for New York Red Bulls
7’ 2T Gustav Berggren (Direct red)