Charlotte FC have qualified for the Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs, clinching their spot via a 4-0 win over CF Montréal on Wednesday.
With two regular-season matches left, Charlotte are fifth in the Eastern Conference (50 points; 14W-10L-8D) as they aim to secure home-field advantage in Round One.
The Crown have qualified for the playoffs in four of their five seasons as a club, only missing out during their inaugural 2022 campaign. They're yet to win a trophy.
Star players
Spanish midfielder Pep Biel and marquee signing Allan Saint-Maximin headline Charlotte's attack, the latter arriving this summer after Wilfried Zaha's loan ended. They form Charlotte's Designated Player trio alongside Liel Abada.
Veteran midfielder Ashley Westwood captains Charlotte, while center back Tim Ream captained the United States at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Westwood and Ream joined Biel at the 2026 MLS All-Star Game presented by Chime, which Charlotte hosted in July.
Between the sticks, 2024 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Kristijan Kahlina has ensured Charlotte remain among the league's best defensive units in their third season under head coach Dean Smith.
Charlotte's previous best postseason runs came in 2024 and 2025, when they exited in Round One.
Audi 2026 MLS Cup Playoffs
MLS Cup presented by Audi will be played Dec. 18, while the playoffs begin Nov. 18 with Wild Card matches.
- Seeds 1-7 in each conference qualify for the Round One Best-of-3 Series.
- Seeds 8-9 in each conference qualify for the Wild Card matches.
- Seeds 10-15 in each conference do not qualify for the postseason.
All games can be viewed on Apple TV.
