Wilfried Zaha Shines in Charlotte FC’s 2-0 Triumph Over Atlanta United

March 1st, 2025

Charlotte FC gain 3 points after a 2-0 victory over Atlanta United at Bank of America Stadium. There was 51,002 fans to witness the home opener, in what was also

Wilfried Zaha's Charlotte FC and MLS Debut. The former EPL player missed game 1 of the season due to his wife going into labor and birth of a baby that we could say inspired his goal and assist in his debut.

Charlotte FC VS Atlanta United March 1st, 2025 | Image: Jacob Him for Football Club Magazine

After a goalless first half, Charlotte FC started the first half strong in comparison to Almiron's Atlanta, resulting in a 53rd minute goal. A Zaha maybe not so intentional assist to Pep Biel put the black and blue ahead. Four minutes later, Zaha capitalized on a rebound to score, doubling Charlotte’s lead.   

Wilfried Zaha After being Coronated l Image: Jacob Him For Football Club Magazine

Zaha’s performance earned him the Man of the Match award and the famous Charlotte FC coronation.

Defensively, Charlotte FC was sound, staying true to last seasons stats as second best defense in the league. After the match Wilfried joked about "constructive criticism but shouting it" when he needs to communicate the urgency of play on the field. He also talked about the conversation he had in the locker room about moving the ball faster which explains the urgency to transition the ball in the second half.

Pep Abiel was also present for comments after the game, where we asked him if he was interested in a permanent move to the queen city.

This victory propels Charlotte FC to the top of the Eastern Conference. They aim to maintain this momentum in their upcoming match against Inter Miami on March 9.