Sports
CF Montreal Secures Victory Against Charlotte FC
CF Montreal has returned to the path of victory after overcoming Charlotte FC with a 2-1 win in a Major League Soccer match held at Stade Saputo on Saturday. This victory is significant for Montreal, as the team had only managed one win in the league since July. Under the guidance of coach Laurent Courtois, Montreal displayed an admirable level of control and sophistication, reminiscent of their early season performances.
Caden Clark, for the first time in his Montreal career, found the back of the net in the 23rd minute. His strike, alongside Bryce Duke’s decisive goal, ensured Montreal’s triumph. Charlotte’s Tim Ream also scored, marking Charlotte’s only goal in the match.
Montreal began the match strongly. After 15 minutes, a powerful free kick by Gabriele Corbo came close to opening the scoring, striking the crossbar. However, just a few moments later, after three remarkable saves by Charlotte’s goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina, Clark capitalized on an opportunity by volleying the ball into the open net, securing his maiden goal for the club.
Riding on high momentum, Montreal quickly doubled their lead three minutes after their first goal. A quick build-up on the left flank helped Raheem Edwards break through the defense. His pass to Duke led to a goal that exhilarated the home crowd.
Charlotte managed to reduce the deficit before halftime. Utilizing their strength in set pieces—a defensive area where Montreal has struggled—Ream scored his first goal for Charlotte by outjumping everyone at the back post.
The second half saw Montreal maintain dominant possession, whereas Charlotte sought to leverage counter-attacks to level the score. Despite Charlotte’s increased efforts to equalize, Montreal maintained composure and navigated the latter stages of the match with minimal risk.
Looking ahead, both teams will return to action on September 18. Montreal aims to avenge their previous 5-0 defeat against the New England Revolution, while Charlotte is set to face Orlando City SC.