Charlotte FC Concedes Late Lead, Draws 2-2 with Orlando City in MLS action

July 5th 2025

Charlotte FC drew 2-2 with Orlando City SC at Bank of America Stadium, extending their winless streak to four MLS games. Charlotte led early, scoring twice before halftime, but Orlando rallied late to claim a point.

Nick Scardina Attempt at goal versus Orlando City at The Bank Of America | Image: Trent Shepherd For Pitchside Brazil

The game started with Orlando dominating what seemed like a cautious Charlotte, which given the stretch of losses, we understand. It was during a moment of strong possession in Charlotte's half that led to an early injury to the game. David Brekalo was defending the ball while Brandt Bronico attempted to steal possession, and that's when an accidental elbow from Brakalo made strong contact with Bronico which left a cut on his left eyebrow. Medical staffed came on immediately to stop the bleeding and play continued. Orlandos possesion of the ball was a constant issue the entire first half, however Pep Biel opened scoring in the 41st minute from a low strike after a Nick Scardina setup. It was Scardina’s first MLS assist, stepping in for the injured Souleyman Doumbia. In the 65th minute, Biel sent in a free kick that Bill Tuiloma headed home, marking Tuiloma’s first MLS goal during his first start of the season.

A few minutes after halftime, Orlando switched things up, bringing on Ramiro Enrique and Martín Ojeda. Enrique scored in the 69th minute off Ojeda’s pass, cutting the lead. Orlando kept the pressure on and earned a penalty in the 80th minute; Marco Pasalić scored to complete the comeback. Orlando’s goalkeeper Pedro Gallese made key saves late to help preserve the draw.

Charlotte controlled possession (53%) and matched Orlando with eight shots on target, but struggled to hold the lead. Kristijan Kahlina stood out with three crucial saves, particularly late in the game.

Injuries and lineup changes weakened Charlotte’s setup. Wilfried Zaha missed the match due to a yellow‑card suspension, and Andrew Privett was sidelined. That led to defensive reshuffling, while Scardina stepped in and assisted the opener. Head coach Dean Smith noted that late-game fatigue and “small lapses” hurt their chances. This game added another layer of uncertainty for fans given the news that Patrick Agyemang is on his way to Derby County on a "deal in region of $8m + $2m bonuses. Charlotte retain sell-on clause" per Tom Bogert. Followed by the news of PSV's interest in signing french center back Adilson Malanda.

Despite what I'd call as 2 successful transfers if Malanda's deal is finalized, the lack of interest in DP caliber players joining the black and blue continues to be a concern once the market opens. Most notably, Marco Reus going to LA Galaxy despite a pay cut, goes to show that while Charlotte has proven be an more than capable city to host international level clubs and nations, it's still not an attractive destination for a DP.

Charlotte sits 8‑11‑2 (26 points) in the Eastern Conference. Orlando (9‑5‑7, 34 points) leaves with momentum as they prepare to host Montréal. Charlotte returns home to face Chicago Fire in an effort to end their losing streak.

You can watch Charlotte FC matches live on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV, with both English and Spanish commentary. Local fans can also tune in on WAXN 64 or Radio WFNZ 92.7 FM.