February 26, 2024 – Major League Soccer (MLS) – Charlotte FC News Release
On a brisk February evening in the Queen City, a remarkable 62,291 fans defied the chill to rally behind Charlotte FC as they kicked off their third MLS season against New York City FC.
This showdown not only heralded the dawn of a new campaign but also marked the debut of Head Coach Dean Smith in the league. Despite the pressure of Charlotte FC’s previous two season opener losses, Smith was determined in his mission to rewrite the narrative in front of the CLTFC faithful.
Much to his and Charlotte’s delight, he achieved just that, securing a 1-0 victory over NYCFC that extended CLTFC’s unbeaten record against their northern opponents to five matches.
In his post-match press conference, reporters asked about the fact that CLTFC had never won – or scored in – a home opener. Smith, having already praised his players’ work ethic and discipline in grinding out a home shutout, was clear in his opinion on whether narratives about the 2022 or 2023 seasons still hold relevance for the 2024 version of CLTFC.
“That’s put to bed, so we can stop talking about that now.”
Charlotte FC set the tempo early, seizing control of the game and capitalizing on an early opportunity in the 8th minute when center back Adilson Malanda found the net off a corner kick. Charlotte FC’s defensive resilience then held firm, limiting NYCFC to very few clear chances and dispelling any doubts about their ability to protect a lead.
Smith commended his team’s performance, particularly highlighting their defensive discipline.
“The first 22 minutes I thought we were really on the front foot. Every time we won the ball back, we went direct to try and score… I feel they got a hold of the game in the second period of the first half without really troubling us. Defensively, I thought our structure was really good.”
Smith had made a promise to his defenders before the season began: a reward of a fine bottle of wine for every clean sheet. True to his word, they accomplished it, wasting no time in reminding their coach in the locker room after an almost flawless defensive display. However, it was the collective and unified effort of the entire team that ultimately led to The Crown’s victory.
“We’ve worked hard all preseason, we had a game plan, we came out and executed it,” said CLTFC midfielder and captain Ashley Westwood. “Another clean sheet, I think that’s five on the bounce now [including preseason]. We are going in the…
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