Yesterday soccer legend Lionel Messi came to town with Inter Miami to take on Charlotte FC in the game that would determine our playoff chances.
We scored early when Kerwin Vargas found a weakness in Miami’s defense and found the net just 13 minutes in.
Intensity was then cranked up with Charlotte’s Adilson Malanda and Ashley Westwood both getting yellow cards in the first half.
Messi had several opportunities to level the score, including two promising free kicks, but Charlotte’s defense, especially their goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina, remained resolute.
As the game progressed, Charlotte introduced fresh legs with Brecht Dejaegere and Justin Meram replacing Vargas and Kamil Jóźwiak. This change seemed to invigorate the team, leading to more offensive plays. However, Miami wasn’t without their chances.
In the dying minutes of the match, they came close to equalizing, but a combination of Kahlina’s saves and a crucial block by Scott Arfield ensured Charlotte’s lead remained intact.
The final whistle marked a significant achievement for Charlotte FC, as they clinched a playoff spot for the first time ever.
Here are the highlights from what may be one of the best games in MLS history:
Last night wasn’t a dream. Witness it all over again 👑 pic.twitter.com/9tzfZTc0Hh
— x – Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) October 23, 2023
VAMOS 👑 pic.twitter.com/nFm5wKGPCP
— x – Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) October 22, 2023
Ladies and gentlemen, in preparation for departure, be certain that your seat back is straight up and your tray table is stowed.
Thank you for visiting the great state of North Carolina. pic.twitter.com/vBO0F7yyf9
— x – Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) October 22, 2023
Charlotte will now be taking on the New York Red Bulls on Wednesday evening, with that winner advancing to the MLS Round One Best-of-3 series.
Go Charlotte!
