Charlotte, North Carolina, August 4, 2025
News Summary
Chivas de Guadalajara edged out Charlotte FC 4-2 in a penalty shootout following a dramatic 2-2 draw in regulation time during the Leagues Cup match in Charlotte, North Carolina. The match featured an own goal by Chivas, a late equalizer from Charlotte, and a heart-stopping shootout where Chivas converted all their attempts while Charlotte missed two penalties. With this victory, Chivas secured a point in the standings while Charlotte’s chance to advance hangs by a thread as they prepare for a crucial match against Monterrey.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Chivas de Guadalajara triumphed over Charlotte FC in a thrilling Leagues Cup match, winning 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a dramatic 2-2 draw in regulation time. The exciting finale took place at Bank of America Stadium and showcased a mix of skill and pressure from both teams, ultimately leading to a heart-stopping shootout.
After a tightly contested match, Chivas converted four penalty kicks successfully, with Gilberto Sepulveda, Miguel Gomez Ortiz, Cade Cowell, and Armando Gonzalez each scoring. Charlotte FC managed to find the net twice, with successful attempts from Nikola Petkovic and Brandt Bronico. However, missed penalties from Eryk Williamson and Tyger Smalls proved crucial, sealing Charlotte’s defeat in the shootout.
The match began in an unexpected manner, with Chivas conceding an own goal in the 11th minute courtesy of Gilberto Sepulveda, giving Charlotte a 1-0 lead. In response, Chivas equalized in the 24th minute with Richard Ledezma launching a long-range shot that found the back of the net. The momentum shifted again when Bryan Gonzalez scored a diving header in the 66th minute, putting Chivas ahead 2-1.
In a dramatic turn of events, Charlotte’s Kerwin Vargas equalized in stoppage time with a powerful free-kick strike, awarded after a foul by Chivas defender Alan Mozo. The game ended 2-2, prompting the penalty shootout that ultimately decided the match.
In the shootout, Charlotte goalkeeper David Bingham struggled, failing to save the initial attempts from Sepulveda and Gomez Ortiz. While Petkovic and Bronico netted their penalties, Williamson’s shot soared over the goal post, and Luis Romo’s attempt for Chivas hit the post. The final moments saw Cowell convert with confidence, while Smalls’ attempt was blocked by Chivas goalkeeper.
Armando Gonzalez then scored the decisive penalty, leading Chivas to victory. Following this result, Charlotte FC sits at 15th place in the Leagues Cup MLS group stage standings, having earned one point from their shootout loss. They remain in contention, albeit with slim chances of advancing, as they have one remaining match scheduled against Monterrey on August 7.
Chivas, following their victory, occupies the 10th position in the Leagues Cup Liga MX standings with one point from this match. Both teams have demonstrated resilience through this matchup, continuing their campaigns in the Leagues Cup, with future outcomes hinging on their upcoming matches.
Match Statistics
- Chivas Goal Scorers: Richard Ledezma (24′), Bryan Gonzalez (66′)
- Charlotte Goal Scorers: Gilberto Sepulveda (own goal, 11′), Kerwin Vargas (stoppage time)
- Penalty Shootout: Chivas 4, Charlotte 2
- Match Location: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina
Leagues Cup Implications
As a result of this match, Charlotte FC is not mathematically eliminated from the tournament; however, their chances of progression are very slim. Their next match against Monterrey will be crucial if they wish to advance. Chivas, on the other hand, has secured a point and will look to build on this success.
Upcoming Matches
- Charlotte FC vs. Monterrey – August 7
FAQ
What was the final score of the match between Chivas and Charlotte FC?
The match resulted in a 2-2 draw, with Chivas winning 4-2 in the penalty shootout.
Who scored the decisive penalty for Chivas?
Armando Gonzalez scored the final penalty kick that secured the victory for Chivas.
What are the current standings for both teams after this match?
Chivas is currently in 10th place in the Leagues Cup Liga MX standings, while Charlotte FC is in 15th place in the MLS group stage standings.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charlotte FC Set for Crucial Match Against Chivas de Guadalajara
Charlotte FC Secures Victory Over Toronto FC
Additional Resources
- Charlotte FC News
- Leagues Cup Match Recap
- Newsweek: Chivas vs Charlotte FC
- Reuters: Leagues Cup Roundup
- The Charlotte Post: Leagues Cup Analysis
- Wikipedia: Chivas de Guadalajara
- Google Search: Charlotte FC Leagues Cup
- Google Scholar: Charlotte FC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Chivas de Guadalajara
- Google News: Charlotte FC
Author: HERE Charlotte
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