NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In a match overshadowed by social concerns, Nashville SC emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Charlotte FC on Saturday night. The game was played in the context of a larger narrative involving immigration, as a noticeable number of Nashville supporters opted to forgo attending the match as a form of protest against heightened ICE activities in Tennessee. Those who attended held signs proclaiming solidarity, with messages in both English and Spanish reading, “We are not all here” and “No estamos todo aqui.”
The energetic Nashville supporters’ group, La Brigada De Oro, decided to cancel all game-day-related activities in response to the ongoing immigration issues.
On the soccer field, the action began in earnest during the second half. Charlotte FC took an initial lead with Liel Abada scoring a precise right-footed shot to the bottom left corner just three minutes into the second half. However, Nashville SC responded almost immediately, with Hany Mukhtar leveling the score with his own right-footed strike from the right side of the box just a minute after Charlotte’s goal.
Nashville then forged ahead in the 54th minute when Jacob Shaffelburg delivered the decisive goal, connecting a left-footed shot from the right side of the box to put his team in the lead.
In terms of statistics, Nashville (6-4-2, 20 points) dominated with a 9-4 advantage in shots on target. Goalkeeper Joe Willis contributed to the victory with three crucial saves. On the other side, Charlotte (6-5-1, 19 points) has now faced three consecutive losses following a prior streak of three wins, with Kristijan Kahlina making seven saves in an effort to stem Nashville’s attacks.
Looking ahead, Nashville SC is set to host the New York Red Bulls on Wednesday, while Charlotte FC will travel to face Orlando City.