CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Uptown Charlotte was filled with excitement as Charlotte FC heads to the playoffs.
Charlotte FC took on Inter Miami and soccer star Lionel Messi in a history-making match, handing Miami a 1-0 loss that qualified Charlotte for the MLS playoffs.
The Bank of America Stadium was packed with over 60,000 fans.
“I think the road is going to be very flourishing from here," said Omar Alaoui.
From the locals to the out-of-towners, soccer fans showed their colors Saturday night, bringing a sense of community and excitement to Uptown Charlotte.
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“I think Charlotte's made a really great move bringing soccer to the city," Alaoui said.
But what really got people excited was Messi, Inter Miami's Argentinian superstar, who, to his fan's delight, played the entire game.
"He’s pretty inspiring,” said Nicholas Gabbert.
For soccer fans, the game was a balancing act between rooting for Charlotte FC and showing their love for Messi.
“It’s going to be fun, just to see a legend like that but at the end, we're Charlotte FC fans all the way,” Amy Plutzker said.
His name alone brought higher ticket prices, with some people spending up to a couple hundred bucks for tickets to the match and also putting money into Charlotte's economy.
Now, Charlotte FC is gearing up for their next win and the fans are ready.
Contact Lexi Wilson at lwilson@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.