Penalty in Manhattan as Charlotte FC Edges NYCFC Seven to Six

By Adam Luna

In an extraordinary display of nerves and precision from the penalty spot, Charlotte FC claimed a thrilling 7–6 victory over New York City Football Club after a goalless 90 minutes. Neither team could break the deadlock during regular play as chances went begging and goalkeepers stood tall, setting the stage for a dramatic shootout.

The penalties began with Archie Goodwin giving Charlotte the early lead, swiftly answered by Alonso Martínez for NYCFC. From there, the shootout turned into a relentless exchange of spot-kick perfection. Aiden O’Neill, Thiago Martins, Justin Haak, Hannes Wolf, and Raul Gustavo all scored for New York City, while Idan Toklomati, Harry Toffolo, Wilfried Zaha, Adilson Malanda, and Djibril Diani kept Charlotte in lockstep.

The goalkeepers became heroes and villains in equal measure. Kristijan Kahlina denied Agustín Ojeda’s effort for NYCFC, while Matt Freese saved Ashley Westwood’s strike for Charlotte. Despite these crucial interventions, the composure of Charlotte’s penalty takers ultimately proved decisive. Nathan Byrne slotted the decisive penalty, clinching the win for the visitors in a shootout that had fans on the edge of their seats.

During open play, both teams struggled to convert chances. Julián Fernández and Maxi Moralez missed opportunities for NYCFC, while Charlotte saw efforts from Wilfried Zaha and Idan Toklomati saved or blocked by Matt Freese. A handful of free kicks and yellow cards punctuated the match, but they were mere preludes to the dramatic conclusion.

The match will be remembered for its intensity and the sheer drama of a shootout that tested every ounce of skill and composure. Charlotte FC emerged victorious, but both teams left a lasting impression on a crowd that witnessed one of the most nerve-wracking finishes in recent MLS history.