Credit: QCNews
Red Bulls beat Charlotte FC in Rainy Match
Published: Wednesday, May 28, 2025
by Thomas Kvalo
HARRISON, N.J. – The New York Red Bulls (7-3-6) defeated Charlotte FC (7-1-8) by a score of 4-2 on a rainy Wednesday night. This hard-fought victory continues an impressive home record.
Rotation in the squad saw the Red Bulls start without both stars Emil Forsberg and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.
The rotation in the squad did not seem to matter as New York struck early. Just prior to the 14 minute mark, a beautiful, lobbed pass from Kyle Duncan found Wiktor Bogacz, who secured his first ever MLS goal and provided the Red Bulls with a 1-0 lead.
Charlotte FC is known for their resilience, which was proven after a goal by Kerwin Vargas in the 26th minute tied the score up at 1-1.
However, the Red Bulls did not let the goal discourage them as they went straight down the pitch to take the lead once again. This time, the goal was scored on a wonderful strike from 20-year-old breakout star Mohammed Sofo. This was Sofo’s third straight game with a goal and seventh on the season.
Following the second Red Bulls goal, there were few chances for either team in the first half. The slippery conditions and solid defense from both sides held the score at 2-1 going into halftime.
Going into the second half New York had a clear strategy: defend the lead. A lot of the possession was given to the visiting side, but the Red Bulls defended well, putting most of their players behind the ball.
Coach Schwartz utilized his players in intriguing fashion when defending, as the Red Bulls started in their usual four at the back formation but went over to the five at the back formation. Raheem Edwards tucked in as the left sided center back and Sofo playing left wing back.
Yet giving up more of the ball did not mean New York was giving up on attacking. Substitute Choupo-Moting was able to win a penalty after being tackled just inside the penalty area. The star forward was also the one to convert the penalty, putting them up by a score of 3-1 in the 70th minute.
Only 6 minutes after the Red Bulls scored. Liel Abada made it a one goal game again. After scoring, he grabbed the ball and ran back to the center circle with the ball and belief in a comeback.
Nevertheless, the Red Bulls remained in control of the game. Choupo-Moting won another penalty kick in the final moments, increasing the lead to 4-2, which would end up being the final score.
The Red Bulls are back in action on Saturday as they welcome Atlanta United to Sports Illustrated Stadium. Anticipate a close contest, seeing as the last meeting between the two clubs resulted in a draw.
Thomas Kvalo can be reached at thomas.kval@student.shu.eduPosted in: sports,