The San Jose Earthquakes began their 2026 preseason with a 1-0 victory over Charlotte FC in an International Club Friendly on February 8. A single goal separated the two MLS clubs in a match that served as an important fitness exercise for both squads. The Earthquakes, playing at home, controlled large portions of the game and found the breakthrough in the second half through a well-worked team move. Charlotte FC, also in their preparatory phase, created a few opportunities of their own but were unable to find a way past the San Jose goalkeeper. The narrow scoreline is typical of early preseason matches where finishing can be rusty, but the intensity and commitment from both sets of players were evident. For San Jose head coach Luchi Gonzalez, the win and clean sheet provide a solid foundation to build upon. Charlotte's Dean Smith will take positives from the performance while noting the need for more clinical play in the final third as they continue their preparations for the MLS season opener.