Charlotte FC's predicted starting XI vs Atlanta United

By Sean McGuffin - @SeanMCG704

Photo courtesy of Eastern Visuals/TopBin90

Charlotte FC looks to bounce back from two straight losses in MLS competition tonight as they host a US Open Cup match against their Southern rival, Atlanta United. For the first time, the I-85 Derby comes to Matthews for midweek action.

Here’s our predicted lineup for tonight’s US Open squad:

Defensive Unit

Tyler Miller will likely return to goal, continuing his role as Charlotte’s keeper for the tournament. David Schnegg and Will Cleary will likely return to the starting 11 after a clean sheet against Charlotte Independence. Andrew Privett will be the biggest question mark of the backline as he had a start on Saturday, replacing an injured Tim Ream, who reportedly is back fit. Henry Kessler is out, so Morrison Agyemang could be back in action after playing this past weekend. Jack Neeley could slot into that spot after being snubbed a start against the Independence.

Privett, Ream, or Neeley could be available as subs, depending on who starts, and Kristijan Kahlina will likely slot in on the bench as the backup goalkeeper.

Midfield

Djibril Diani and Luca De La Torre are both well rested and could get another Open Cup start tonight. Brandt Bronico started on Saturday at Nashville as Dean Smith continues to tweak his midfielders. Bronico played the role of central midfielder in the win against Charlotte Independence and could return to that role tonight. If the short time between matches is a factor, Smith may choose to put in Aron John in the role.

If Bronico starts the match, John will be available as a sub. Pep Biel and Ashley Westwood will also likely be available off the bench if things don’t go according to plan from the start.

Forward line

Archie Goodwin and Rodolfo Aloko both started against Charlotte Independence just two weeks ago. Since then, the two have made their MLS starting debuts, and both started against Nashville just days ago. They are 21 and 19, respectively, so they could very well be ready to start tonight, even with a short rest. The youth initiative continues with Tyger Smalls, possibly rounding out the forward line. There is a chance Aloko is rested after multiple consecutive starts and replaced with Liel Abada in the starting lineup. If Archie Goodwin doesn’t start, Idan Toklomati would likely get the nod as the two 21-year-olds battle for the starting striker position.

Kerwin Vargas and Wilfried Zaha should be available as substitutes.

Predicted Starting XI