Charlotte FC Edges Union After Late Goal Exchange

Wilfried Zaha's late strike gives Charlotte the win over winless Philadelphia.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:55am

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Charlotte FC defeated the visiting Philadelphia Union 2-1 on Saturday night, with Wilfried Zaha scoring the game-winning goal in the 80th minute. The Union had equalized just minutes earlier through Danley Jean-Jacques, but Charlotte regained the lead late on Zaha's strike. The result keeps Philadelphia winless on the season at 0-6-0, while Charlotte improves to 3-1-2.

Why it matters

This match highlighted the contrasting fortunes of the two Eastern Conference clubs so far this season. Charlotte has surged to a strong start and sits tied for third in the table, while the Union - last year's Supporters' Shield winners - have struggled mightily out of the gate, still searching for their first victory.

The details

Zaha scored the decisive goal for Charlotte, running unmarked down the left side and firing a shot past Union goalkeeper Andre Blake. The goal came just minutes after Jean-Jacques had equalized for Philadelphia, finishing off a nice passing sequence. But the Union defense was unable to hold on, losing their shape and allowing Zaha's late winner.

  • The game was played on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
  • Zaha scored the game-winning goal in the 80th minute.
  • Jean-Jacques equalized for the Union in the 78th minute.

The players

Wilfried Zaha

The Charlotte FC forward scored the game-winning goal in the 80th minute.

Danley Jean-Jacques

The Philadelphia Union midfielder scored the equalizing goal in the 78th minute.

Andre Blake

The Philadelphia Union goalkeeper made 3 saves in the match.

Kristjian Kahlina

The Charlotte FC goalkeeper made 2 saves in the match.

Ashley Westwood

The Charlotte FC midfielder scored the opening goal in the 30th minute.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to fight and find a way to get results. This is a tough start, but we know we have the quality to turn it around.”

— Jim Curtin, Philadelphia Union Head Coach

What’s next

The Union will look to earn their first win of the season when they host Atlanta United next weekend, while Charlotte FC will aim to continue their strong start with a home match against D.C. United.

The takeaway

This match highlighted the contrasting fortunes of the two Eastern Conference clubs so far this season. Charlotte has surged to a strong start, while the Union - last year's Supporters' Shield winners - have struggled mightily out of the gate, still searching for their first victory.