St. Louis, Charlotte Draw 1-1 in MLS Opener

Hartel and Biel score in the first match of the new season.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 10:06pm

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In the opening match of the 2026 MLS season, St. Louis City SC and Charlotte FC played to a 1-1 draw. Marcel Hartel scored in the 60th minute to give St. Louis the lead, but Pep Biel equalized for Charlotte in the 73rd minute.

Why it matters

The draw marks the start of the new MLS season, with both expansion teams looking to make an impact in their inaugural campaigns. The result suggests the teams are evenly matched, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

The details

St. Louis City SC took the lead midway through the second half when Marcel Hartel found the back of the net. However, Charlotte FC responded with a goal from Pep Biel to level the score and earn a point on the road.

  • The match was played on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
  • Hartel scored in the 60th minute to give St. Louis the lead.
  • Biel equalized for Charlotte in the 73rd minute.

The players

Marcel Hartel

A midfielder for St. Louis City SC who scored the opening goal of the match.

Pep Biel

A forward for Charlotte FC who scored the equalizing goal for his team.

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The takeaway

The draw between the two expansion teams suggests a competitive and evenly matched start to the new MLS season, with both St. Louis City SC and Charlotte FC showing promise in their inaugural campaigns.