Charlotte FC's Predicted Starting XI against New England Revolution
- Rylee Mckinney
- 1 minute ago
- 2 min read
By Rylee McKinney
Charlotte FC takes on New England away this evening – a classic sweat tea versus clam chowder clash!
The Crown currently runs a seven-game winning streak, which is the longest active streak in the MLS right now. Most significantly, Charlotte FC has reached the top four in the Eastern Conference, which seemed unlikely during their slump in May. But hey, when Westwood says top four, he means top four!
Tonight, Charlotte FC will lineup against New England Revolution, looking to extend their streak once more. Here’s how Charlotte FC is likely to line up:
Defensive Unit
Kristijan Kahlina is on fire and has no desire to slow down. Despite his midseason struggles, Kahlina is finally recognizable between the posts, earning him a likely start.
In natural Charlotte FC fashion, new signing Harry Tuffolo suffered a hamstring injury last week against the New York Red Bulls. With a two-to-three-week recovery ahead of him, Toffolo will likely pass off his starting position to Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty on the left side.
Partnered in the center will likely be the Tim Ream and Adilson Malanda duo. In this week’s presser, Dean Smith acknowledged that Bill Tuiloma is finally back to full fitness. However, Charlotte FC’s hamstring history will likely grant Nathan Byrne the right full-back starting spot.
Reserves for the defensive unit will likely be Nick Scardina, Andrew Privett, and Bill Tuiloma.
Midfield
The midfield triangle will have to go on another week without their 24-carat gold Labubu, Pep Biel. Biel is still on track to return against Miami prior to the international break.
Djibril Diani will likely take the left side with captain Ashley Westwood to his right. Mayor Brandt Bronico will finally return from his marketing campaign trail at UNC Charlotte this week to likely fill in for Biel in the attacking midfield spot.
Substitutions for the midfield will likely include Eryk Williamson and Nikola Petković.
Forward Line
Charlotte’s forward line will likely mirror last week’s lineup, with Idan Toklomati likely leading the charge. Australian signing Archie Goodwin made his first appearance last week against the New York Red Bulls, but he seems to still be adjusting to MLS.
On the left side will likely be Wilfried Zaha again, accompanied by Kerwin Vargas on the right side. Vargas has been exceptional in his performance the last few weeks, and I am starting to wonder who flips more: Vargas or Benson Boone? I will check that stat before the next match, I promise.
Potential substitutes for the attacking unit will likely be Liel Abada, Tyger Smalls, and Archie Goodwin.
The season may be winding down, but Charlotte FC is finally heating up. With playoffs around the corner, this winning streak might just give them the momentum they need.
Predicted Starting XI
