How things stand in the Carolina Challenge Cup after Round 2
Day two of the Carolina Challenge Cup has wrapped up. Where do the four clubs stand? Check out the results of the first two rounds, and a preview of what’s still to come in South Carolina.
Every year since 2004, the USL club Charleston Battery has hosted three MLS clubs in a tournament known as the Carolina Challenge Cup. This year’s clubs were an interesting mix of old, new, and premier.
First, for those new to the Cup, lets take a quick look at the clubs competing:
- Charleston Battery – The host club. One of the two oldest continuously operating soccer clubs in America. Has competed in every Carolina Challenge Cup; however, have yet to win one.
- Atlanta United FC – One of two new MLS expansion clubs in 2017. First time competing in Carolina Challenge Cup.
- Columbus Crew SC – One of the ten charter clubs in MLS. Fourth time competing in Carolina Challenge Cup. First ever winners of the Carolina Challenge Cup.
- Seattle Sounders FC – Defending MLS Cup Champions. Second Carolina Challenge Cup.
It is important to remember that the MLS clubs competing Carolina Challenge Cup are doing so as part of their preseason, therefore don’t necessarily reflect the club we will see during the MLS Regular Season.
First Round Results – February 18
- Columbus Crew SC – 2, Atlanta United FC – 1
In the first ever matchup between Columbus Crew SC and Atlanta United FC, the veteran club out of Columbus was able to overcome an early goal from Atlanta with 2 second half goals from designated player Federico Higuain.
Check out the MLS Multiplex recap of the match here.
- Charleston Battery – 1, Seattle Sounders FC – 1
Charleston Battery scored a late goal at the 92 minute mark to shock the champs and take home a draw against the Seattle Sounders.