Charlotte FC’s Predicted Starting XI against Atlanta United FC
- Rylee Mckinney
- 1 minute ago
- 3 min read
By: Rylee McKinney
In a streak of lightnin’, Charlotte FC finally broke their slump with a 2-1 win over DC United last Wednesday! But the lineup has fluctuated significantly in the last few matches, reflecting Dean Smith’s endless attempts to earn three points.
With Charlotte FC sitting in 9th place in the Eastern Conference standings, they need to build much-needed momentum in the weeks to come.
Finishing off a double-header week, Charlotte FC will be on the road to take on Atlanta United FC once again. Here is how The Crown is most likely to line up tonight:
Defensive Unit
As the weeks wane on, it appears that Kristijan Kahlina has gained the upper hand on David Bingham, so he will likely start between the posts tonight. Sitting ahead of Kahlina will likely be Marshall-Rutty in the left full-back spot, who has demonstrated excellent consistency for Charlotte FC.
In the center will likely be Tim Ream, who finally earned a start this past Wednesday after recovering from a knock during his USMNT Gold Cup run. Partnered with Ream will likely be Adilson Malanda, as their combination last week seemed to close some of the defensive gaps the team has been facing.
Finishing off the defensive line will likely be Bill Tuiloma in the right fullback position. Tuiloma has earned some significant minutes in the last few games and has made serious progress.
Sitting on the bench for the defensive unit will likely be Mikah Thomas, Nick Scardina, and Jack Neeley. Yet, with several unforeseen changes in the lineup lately, they might just earn a start.
Midfield
After Wednesday, it is safe to say that Pep Biel has proven his worth to Charlotte FC time and again. So, Biel will likely resume his position in the attacking midfield spot, looking to earn another goal to reach 10 goals and 10 assists this season.
With Biel in the attacking midfield spot, Brandt Bronico will likely fall into the left winger position. Although he did not earn the start on Wednesday, he has a strong chance of starting. This leaves Captain Ashley Westwood to claim the right side as he continues to silently create opportunities for Charlotte.
Viable options on the bench for the midfield will likely be Djibril Diani and Eryk Williamson. Diani has also earned significant time on the field, starting against Orlando City and DC United. Consequently, Diani might just disrupt the power triangle.
Forward Unit
With Patrick Agyemang officially off to Derby County, Idan Toklomati will likely start in the forward spot. Toklomati will most likely assume this position unless a striker is secured in the summer transfer window.
On the left side will likely be Wilfried Zaha, who has recently found his place with Charlotte FC and has created intense 1v1 battles in the attacking third.
Tonight, the right side might look slightly different. Liel Abada’s recent performance has not been quite up to par, according to Dean Smith; therefore, Kerwin Vargas will likely assume the starting position with Abada as a potential substitute.
Tyger Smalls will also be a potential option on the bench for the forward unit tonight.
Charlotte FC needs to earn back a winning streak to ensure they do not lose a playoff spot! Tonight’s matchup could simply be a push in the right direction.
Predicted Starting XI
