Charlotte FC’s Predicted Starting XI against Toronto FC

By Rylee McKinney

Tim Ream and Kerwin Vargas (Photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/Topbin90)

Charlotte FC is on a roll, having earned all nine points over their last three matches. After a 3-2 win over rival Atlanta FC last week on the road, the team returns to The Bank this weekend, looking to earn a 4th consecutive win for the first time in club history. 

With the Leagues Cup right around the corner, Charlotte FC will have an intense schedule in the coming weeks. So, a regular MLS season win would be a great morale booster ahead of the tournament. 

We can expect The Bank to be electric once again tonight! Here is how the squad is most likely to line up tonight:

Defensive Unit

Kritijan Kahlina will likely kick off the starting lineup between the posts for Charlotte FC. Kahlina made some significant saves for Charlotte FC last weekend and stated in a mid-week press conference that he is back to meeting training expectations.

The defensive line will mirror last week as Charlotte FC has not signed a new fullback in the recently opened summer transfer window. Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty will likely hold the left fullback spot with Tim Ream to his right.

Next to Tim Ream in the center will most likely be Adilson Malanda, who has been building some consistent chemistry with Ream in the center. In the right fullback position will likely be Bill Tuiloma as he continues to earn some significant minutes in the back line. 

As for the bench, Dean Smith will have Mikah Thomas, Nick Scardina, and Jack Neeley on reserve. Nathan Byrne continues to rebuild stamina but is expected to be back on the pitch during the League Cup matches. 

Midfield 

Dean Smith has returned to the usual triangle in the midfield after several unique changes in the last few matchdays. Pep Biel will likely head the triangle in the attacking midfield as his momentum simply cannot be stopped. 

Homegrown Brandt Bronico will most likely sit to Biel’s left in the midfield, and Ashley Westwood will hold down the right side. 

Sitting on the bench will likely be Djibril Diani and Eryk Williamson. Depending on Charlotte’s performance against Toronto, Dean Smith will likely substitute these players to conserve some energy ahead of the Leagues Cup. 

Forward Unit

Charlotte FC is yet to sign a new striker to compete with Idan Toklomati for Patrick Agyemang’s position, despite potential transfer rumors circulating earlier this week. That leaves Idan Toklomati to likely start in the forward spot. 

On the left side will likely be Wilfried Zaha, who is consistently taking on defenders in 1v1s in the attacking third, making waves on offense. 

Liel Abada will likely serve as a substitute, granting Kerwin Vargas the start once more. Abada, although reported to be ready to play this week, did not travel with the team against Atlanta. So, Vargas will likely start on the right side. 

Tyger Smalls will also be an option for the front line and could get some minutes depending on how the match plays out. 

Tonight will be important for Charlotte FC as they look to tack on another three points! The Crown also needs to earn an early lead so they can conserve some legs for the upcoming Leagues Cup.

Predicted Starting XI