Charlotte Takes Down Richmond in First USL Cup Match
USL1 Charlotte Independence

Charlotte Takes Down Richmond in First USL Cup Match

Published on April 25, 2026 under United Soccer League One (USL1)
Charlotte Independence News Release


RICHMOND, VA, - The Charlotte Independence scored two first half goals to burst by Richmond Kickers 2-1 on Saturday night at City Stadium.

It was a lovely brace from Enzo Martinez to bring his all competitions total to three and give the Independence a big three points in their first match of the Prinx Tires USL Cup.

The Independence started on the front foot. Scoring his second goal in all competitions, Martinez took the lead in the 10th minute. Clay Dimick hit Martinez quickly on the counter and the veteran struck, scoring one-time on the pass from Dimick.

Somehow, the ball didn't cross the backline for the Jacks in the 30th minute. A scramble in front and Souaibou Marou on the goal line was cleared by Richmond as Joey Skinner was battling away after an Independence corner kick.

Martinez wasn't done. It was a fantastic counterattack from the Jacks after a Richmond set piece. Marou played a sensational cross-field ball to Martinez to send the Jacks one-on-one and the UNC product made zero mistake to double the advantage in the 39th minute.

Martinez's double led to the Jacks' having a first-half two goal lead.

Matt Levy made his first critical strop of the night right after halftime. Josh Kirkland gained possession in the box and cut inside, but Levy denied him, making his first save of the night.

Charlotte nearly made it 3-0 in the 60th minute. Viggo Ortiz played it in to Jon Bakero, who chested it down beautifully and volleyed it just wide.

Richmond pulled one back in the 79th minute. After Charlotte gave up a set piece, Sam Layton powered the Kickers to within a goal with a little less than ten minutes to play in regulation.

Regardless, Charlotte captured their fifth consecutive victory over Richmond, starting their Prinx Tires USL Cup on the right foot.

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United Soccer League One Stories from April 25, 2026


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