Charlotte FC beats Philadelphia Union 2-1

Westwood and Zaha score in rainy match

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:58am

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Charlotte FC defeated the Philadelphia Union 2-1 on Saturday in a rain-soaked match. Ashley Westwood and Wilfried Zaha each scored a goal for Charlotte FC to secure the victory.

Why it matters

The win helps Charlotte FC, an expansion team in its second MLS season, continue its strong start to the year and climb up the Eastern Conference standings. The loss is a setback for the Union, who were looking to build on their successful 2025 campaign.

The details

Charlotte FC took the lead in the 23rd minute when midfielder Ashley Westwood scored on a long-range shot. The Union equalized in the 57th minute through a goal by forward Wilfried Zaha. But Charlotte FC regained the lead for good in the 72nd minute when Zaha found the back of the net again to give his team the 2-1 victory.

  • The match was played on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
  • Charlotte FC took the lead in the 23rd minute.
  • The Union equalized in the 57th minute.
  • Charlotte FC scored the game-winning goal in the 72nd minute.

The players

Ashley Westwood

A midfielder for Charlotte FC who scored the opening goal of the match.

Wilfried Zaha

A forward for Charlotte FC who scored both of his team's goals in the 2-1 victory.

Philadelphia Union

The opposing team that lost 2-1 to Charlotte FC.

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What they’re saying

“It was a hard-fought match in tough conditions, but we're pleased to come away with the three points.”

— Ashley Westwood, Midfielder, Charlotte FC

What’s next

Charlotte FC will look to build on this win when they host New York City FC next weekend. The Union will try to bounce back at home against D.C. United.

The takeaway

Charlotte FC's victory over the Union demonstrates the team's ability to grind out results, even in difficult weather, as they continue to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference.