The first whistle of the 2026 MLS season is finally here.

In this high-speed "espresso shot" episode, we’re joined by MLS on Apple TV broadcaster Jessica Charman to preview the league’s curtain-raiser: Charlotte FC at St. Louis CITY SC.

Jessica has been a part of the Charlotte story since Day 1 and now brings her expert play-by-play lens to the national booth. We’re breaking down everything you need to know about the clash at Energizer Park in our signature 90-second "Matchday Sprints."

The 30,000-Foot View: Why CLT vs. STL is the perfect tactical chess match to kick off the new year.

Tactical Deep Dive: How Dean Smith's Charlotte FC plans to weather the the unknown of a St. Louis squad with Yoann Damet.

The X-Factor: The players Jessica believes will dictate the rhythm of the entire broadcast.

The Personal Sip: Jessica shares a 90-second "behind-the-mic" story from her journey as the first female radio color commentator in MLS history to the Apple TV booth and her 2025 MLS Apple on location debut in Chicago with Ian Joy.

The Golden Goal: One bold, non-scoreline prediction for what the headlines will say on Sunday morning.

Match Details:

📅 Saturday, Feb 21

⏰ 2:30 PM ET / 1:30 PM CT

📺 Watch: MLS on Apple TV

🎙️ On the Call: Jessica Charman & Ian Joy

Grab your coffee. The season starts now.

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