Charlotte FC secured a 2-0 victory over the Philadelphia Union, who had already clinched the 2025 Supporters’ Shield, during MLS Decision Day at Bank of America Stadium. The win ensured Charlotte FC finished in the top four of the Eastern Conference for the first time in club history and earned them home field advantage for their opening playoff match against New York City.
The match saw early goals from Wilfried Zaha and Kerwin Vargas. Zaha scored in the 24th minute after a cross from Kerwin Vargas reached him via a dummy move by Idan Toklomati. This goal marked Zaha’s tenth of the season, along with ten assists, making him second on the team for total goal contributions this year.
Shortly after, Vargas doubled Charlotte’s lead by converting a cross from defender Harry Toffolo. The Colombian forward was left unmarked in the box and beat Philadelphia goalkeeper Andre Blake to make it 2-0.
Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina played a key role for Charlotte, recording six saves and securing his twelfth clean sheet of the season.
Wilfried Zaha received a second yellow card late in the match and was sent off, meaning he will miss Charlotte’s first playoff game.
Reflecting on the achievement, captain Ashley Westwood’s preseason goal for a top-four finish was realized as Charlotte locked in their best league finish to date.
