Chattanooga FC is still dancing.
Richard Dixon's side withstood a challenging Kalonji Pro-Profile side Wednesday night to open U.S. Open Cup play, coming from behind an early deficit to take a 2-1 win.
Goals shortly before and after halftime lighted the path for CFC, with two players scoring their first goals for the club. CFC has progressed to the second round of the Open Cup for the second consecutive year.
Early wake-up call
CFC goalkeeper Griffin Huff saved a penalty kick in the 13th minute, but the rebound of the save found Huff out of position. Braiden Kalonji, just 14 years old, scored with a chipped shot that sailed over Huff's head.
Ortiz levels just before half
Honduran midfielder Darwin Ortiz struck his first CFC goal in first-half stoppage time, bringing CFC some hope heading into the break. Ortiz, 20, is off to a strong start to the 2026 season. He made seven appearances for the club last season.
CFC finished the first half with 11 shots to Kalonji's two. Ortiz set the table for CFC to take control of the match in the second half.
Mohand strikes quickly
Sid Mohand found the goal that eventually proved to be the match winner just 11 seconds into the second half. He sent a low drive into bottom corner of the goal to hand CFC the lead.
CFC have had mixed results so far this season, but have not had trouble finding the goal. The team has scored eight goals in four games in all competitions in 2026.
Moving on
CFC moves ahead to the Second Round of the Open Cup, but league matches are coming thick and fast early in the 2026 season. CFC makes a short road trip to Huntsville City FC on Saturday, March 21.
