Match Centre

The 3-1 scoreline flattered Charlotte, with Columbus Crew deserving winners based on their superior chance creation. Their 2.85 xG to Charlotte's 0.91 tells the story of a match where the home side generated far higher-quality opportunities, reflected in their 33 total shots (14 on target) versus Charlotte's meagre 9 (2 on target). Despite only edging possession (53% to 47%), Columbus turned their dominance into 10 corners to Charlotte's 4, pinning the visitors back.

Charlotte's early lead through Idan Toklomati Jorno (17') was against the run of play, with Brais Méndez levelling (28') before second-half goals from Anass Zaroury (63') and Taha Habroune (65') sealed it. Columbus' attacking trio of Zaroury, Méndez, and Habroune were decisive, with Mohamed Farsi's assist for Zaroury's goal a standout moment. The telling stat? Columbus' 21 shots inside the box to Charlotte's 7 — a relentless attacking display that Charlotte couldn't withstand.