Charlotte FC lost 1-0 to New York City FC at home, putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy.

What happened?

The team squandered their home-field advantage, with Alonso Martinez scoring the winning goal in the 34th minute. Charlotte FC played without two of its leading scorers: Pep Biel and Wilfried Zaha. Zaha will return for the next game in New York.

Why it matters for Charlotte FC

The loss means Charlotte FC must win in New York to force a deciding game. Coach Dean Smith expressed confidence in his team's ability to win the next game. Smith noted that the team gave the ball away too often and looked sluggish in the first half.

What comes next?

Charlotte FC will face New York City FC again on November 1. If they win, the deciding game will be played at Bank of America Stadium on November 7. | Stat | Value | | --- | --- | | Attendance | 33,709 | | Score | 1-0 | | Date | October 29, 2025 | The team finished fourth in the MLS Eastern Conference this season, while NYCFC came in fifth.