Croatian goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina of Charlotte FC was named to the MLS Team of the Matchday for the opening week of the 2026 season after delivering a standout 10-save performance during the Club’s season opener against St. Louis CITY SC. This recognition marks Kahlina’s eighth selection to the weekly team since joining Charlotte FC in 2022, highlighting his continued growth and influence in goal.
Kahlina’s Consistent Improvement in Season Openers
Over his tenure with Charlotte FC, Kahlina has steadily elevated his contributions during each season opener, recording one save in 2022, followed by four, three, five, and now a career-best 10 saves in the 2026 kickoff match. His reliable presence has anchored the team’s defense, helping Charlotte FC secure at least a point in each of the last three season openers. Among seven Eastern Conference teams playing away games, Charlotte FC was one of only two clubs to leave the field with a point, joining New York Red Bulls, positioning the team fifth in the table entering Matchday 2.
Upcoming Challenges for Charlotte FC
The Crown is set to embark on another Western Conference road trip, facing the 2024 MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy on Saturday, February 28. The match will be held at Dignity Health Sports Park with kickoff scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET and broadcast available on Apple TV. Following this, Charlotte FC will return home on March 7 to face Austin FC, where fans arriving early will receive a limited-edition party shirt presented by Ally.
Comprehensive Team of the Matchday 1 Roster
The MLS Team of Matchday 1 features forwards Petar Musa (DAL), Julian Hall (RBNY), and Sam Surridge (NSH). Midfield selections include Denis Bouanga (LAFC), Adri Mehmeti (RBNY), Stephen Eustáquio (LAFC), and Guilherme (HOU). Defenders named are Daniel Munie (SJ), Miles Robinson (CIN), and Christopher McVey (SD). Kristijan Kahlina (CLT) was honored as the goalkeeper, while LAFC’s Marc Dos Santos was chosen as the coach.
The bench includes Maxime Crépeau (ORL), Cole Bassett (POR), Sebastian Berhalter (VAN), Marcel Hartel (STL), Warren Madrigal (NSH), Paul Rothrock (SEA), Anders Dreyer (SD), Logan Farrington (DAL), and Tai Baribo (DC).
