The Queen City is buzzing. The 2025 regular season is here, and there are major expectations for Charlotte FC in their fourth season. Why you ask? The Crown are coming off back-to-back playoff appearances after finishing 5th in the Eastern Conference under Dean Smith's first season. Add in the addition of world-class talent, Wilfried Zaha, in the offseason, among other moves, and the potential is clear.
"I want to win the Supporters Shield. Then, I want to win the MLS Cup. Then, the US Open... Leagues Cup as well. That has to be our standards that we set ourselves to go and win things. If you can't and you end up fourth, then that's an improvement on last season. But we're looking to improve each year and set standards that you're looking to surpass each year as well." - Dean Smith
That only means one thing... Charlotte need to make every home match matter. A Fortress. So here are the can't miss matches of the 2025 home season:
FILL THE FORTRESS
Home Opener. March 1 vs. Atlanta United. 2 p.m. Upper Bowl OPEN.
The first fans to arrive will receive the limited-edition CLTFC snapback hat presented by Ally.
Let the party continue!
There's not much more to say here... Home Opener. Full Stadium. Atlanta. Battle of the South.
If you aren't at this match, you are missing the biggest one of the year. It's that simple. This rivalry has grown each season, and now the schedule makers have graced us with a home opener on FOX. It's going to be electric. It's going to be tightly contested. It's going to be one to remember.
It's also going to be an important factor in the Eastern Conference race, as both Atlanta and Charlotte are expected to be in playoff positions come the end of the season. Yes, the second-week matters in the playoff race.
Buckle up. Grab your home opener tickets. The ride starts early.
If you can't make the home opener, match number two isn't a bad one, either. FCC proves to always be a tightly contested match, whether home or away. Add in it's just the second match of the season and the debut of the new Fortress Kit, and you have got yourself what should be one of the most exciting matches of the season.
Charlotte is the real Queen City.
Welcome the new kids on the block.
San Diego will make the journey east to Charlotte in their inaugural season. It marks their first away trip to an Eastern Conference opponent. Hiring Lozano was a marquee signing for San Diego in the offseason and will be the one to watch in this first-ever matchup.
PROMO SCHEDULE
Theme Nights and Giveaways for Season 4 are here! Check out the full promotions schedule for the 2025 Season.
Every match against Chicago Fire has had excitement, drama, and a little bite. It's by no means a rivalry, but the matches have always had a little something extra that makes them consistently intriguing. Charlotte lead the all-time head-to-head 5-0-1.
It's also one of the last matches in May before a long, very long road trip. Plus, the legendary giveaway of the Party Shirt (yes, it's back and better), and this match is one you won't want to miss this year.
Revenge.
Charlotte will make the away trip to Orlando earlier in the season, but this will be the first chance for the hometown fans to earn a little revenge. After seeing Charlotte's playoff run come to an end against The Lions, this match will be sure to be a chippy one.
This match also marks The Crown's return home after a long road stretch due to the FIFA Club World Cup being played in Charlotte. Five straight matches on the road in May/June, so this return home will surely be a party.
Every match with Miami is a big one.
This late in the season, playoff positions will be on the line, and star power will be at the forefront. Undoubtedly, this match will be one you can't miss.
It's one of the most important matchdays of the year. Playoff positions are always on the line on Decision Day, and Charlotte FC will have the luxury of playing at home this season. Last year, Charlotte won 3-0 on the road to help secure 5th place in the East.
As Dean said, top four is not the ambition; trophies are the ambition. So, this matchday will be crucial to helping reach that goal.
NEW! - Six Match Pack
Six Matches. Six Parties. All Season Long.
The Six Match Pack will get you into some of the best matches, spread throughout the whole season. Your NEW six pack to cheer on the Mighty Black & Blue!
