North Charlotte Today

Patrick Agyemang scored a crucial equalizer in the 84th minute to secure a point for Charlotte FC against the defending MLS Cup Champions, Columbus Crew.

After thunderstorms cleared the Columbus area, Lower.com Field hosted a match under clear skies. Both teams entered with recent away victories—Charlotte defeating Cincinnati 3-1 and Columbus triumphing over LAFC 5-1.

The opening minutes saw Columbus dominate possession while Charlotte focused on counter-attacks. The Crew had early chances, including a missed opportunity by Max Arfsten and a blocked shot by Kristijan Kahlina. Patrick Agyemang also had an attempt at goal but failed to convert.

In the 21st minute, controversy arose when Cucho Hernandez's shot was initially deemed a handball by Adilson Malanda. However, after VAR review, referee Victor Rivas overturned the penalty decision as the ball had hit Malanda's chest.

Columbus continued to press and took the lead in the 30th minute after Malanda's error allowed Hernandez to score. Despite further opportunities for Columbus, including efforts from Arfsten and Christian Ramirez, Charlotte managed to reach halftime trailing by only one goal.

Following an extended halftime due to severe weather, Charlotte returned rejuvenated. Ashley Westwood created an early chance for Liel Abada, but Columbus goalkeeper Nicholas Hagen made a save. Diego Rossi nearly doubled Columbus' lead with a deflected shot that hit the crossbar.

Charlotte made several substitutions in response to continued pressure from Columbus. In the 69th minute, Head Coach Dean Smith introduced Joao Pedro, Iuri Tavares, and Nikola Petkovic. Despite Privett's injury forcing another substitution with Bill Tuiloma entering the game, Charlotte remained resilient.

As the match progressed, both teams created chances but failed to convert until Agyemang capitalized on a long ball from Tuiloma in the 84th minute. After sprinting past Rudy Camacho and evading Hagen outside his box, Agyemang calmly slotted home for an equalizer.

Charlotte endured late pressure from Columbus but held firm until the final whistle. This result marks a successful trip for Charlotte FC in Ohio as they earned four out of six possible points against top league teams. Next, they travel to Texas to face Austin FC before MLS pauses for the Leagues Cup.