Charlotte FC kicked off their 2025 MLS season on a high, securing a 2-0 win over Atlanta United in what has been coined the 'Battle of the South.' Newcomer Wilfried Zaha, who joined the Crown wearing the No. 10 jersey, didn't disappoint his legion of supporters by scoring a goal and assisting another, according to the Charlotte Observer. Zaha, the 32-year-old Ivory Coast native, even managed a slice of unintended comedy admitting "his so-called pass to Pep Biel actually was intended to be a shot."

The team's social media presence didn't miss a beat either, playfully taunting their southern adversaries with a cheeky post celebrating their victory, as reported by Goal.com. And while the club's digital pundits were having their fun, the real talk of the town was the performance of Zaha, who's dexterity on the field left fans and onlookers alike impressed in his MLS debut for Charlotte FC's fans shown up in droves at the Bank of America Stadium.

Charlotte FC's win wasn't just a fluke, but a testament to the team's capabilities, as seen by the strong debut of key players like Zaha. The victory sets a confident tone for the team's upcoming fixture against Inter Miami. QC News highlighted the significance of Zaha's first goal, marking a momentous start for the club's newly acquired designated player.

Undoubtedly, expectations are now set for Zaha and Charlotte FC as they proceed in the MLS season, the initial victory has not only gotten hopes up, with the team and its fans eagerly looking at what could be an eventful season, and if the opener is anything to go by, Charlotte FC could very well be a team to watch this year.