Charlotte FC produced a clinical away performance at Stade Saputo on Wednesday night, defeating CF Montréal 2-1 thanks to Idan Toklomati’s decisive 81st-minute goal.
CF Montréal had more of the ball and more pressure for long spells, finishing with 58.4 percent possession, 17 shots and 11 corners. But Charlotte made their moments count, turning four efforts on target into two crucial goals to leave Montreal with all three points.
Montréal struck first in the 34th minute when Daniel Ríos rose to head home and give the hosts a deserved breakthrough. The lead lasted only three minutes, however, as Liel Abada responded for Charlotte FC in the 37th minute to send the sides into the interval level at 1-1.
The second half developed into a tense, increasingly physical contest. Victor Loturi was booked for Montréal in first-half stoppage time, while Charlotte defender David Schnegg saw yellow in the 68th minute. Montréal continued to push, but Charlotte remained compact and dangerous on the break.
The decisive moment arrived in the 81st minute. Shortly after Montréal midfielder Matthew Longstaff was cautioned, substitute Idan Toklomati found the goal to put Charlotte FC ahead 2-1. The visitors protected that advantage through five minutes of added time to secure an important road victory.
Charlotte’s efficiency proved the difference: despite trailing Montréal 17-15 in total shots and 5-4 in shots on target, the visitors converted their key opportunities. The result moves Charlotte FC’s overall record to 11-6-7, while CF Montréal fall to 5-6-13.
CF Montréal return to action on Saturday, September 12, when they host the Colorado Rapids. Charlotte FC are also back on Saturday, travelling to face FC Cincinnati.
Goals
- CF Montréal: Daniel Ríos 34′
- Charlotte FC: Liel Abada 37′, Idan Toklomati 81′
