Charlotte FC's Predicted Starting XI vs. FC Cincinnati

By Rylee McKinney

The squad celebrates a goal (Photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/Topbin90)

Well, the Leagues Cup may have been a dud, but Charlotte FC returns to regular-season play tonight against FC Cincinnati. Prior to the “Let’s pretend that didn’t happen” Cup, Charlotte secured a 2-0 win over Toronto FC at The Bank.

So far this June, Charlotte has earned 13 points and will need to maintain that momentum in order to secure a playoff spot. The summer transfer window brought in fullback Harry Toffolo from Nottingham Forest, although he will not be quite ready for Sunday’s match as he awaits his visa.

Looking to shake off a difficult Leagues Cup loss, Charlotte FC will need to overcome their away-game struggles. Here’s how they are likely to line up:

Defensive Unit

After starting in two of Charlotte’s three Leagues Cup matches, David Bingham might be expected to take the starting goalkeeper spot tonight.

However, during Thursday’s presser, head coach Dean Smith acknowledged that Kristijan Kahlina has been performing really well over the last five MLS matches. As a result, Kahlina will likely get another start tonight.

At left back, Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty has been a consistent presence for Charlotte. In the center, Tim Ream will most likely partner with Adilson Malanda, who, according to Smith, is ready to play the full 90 minutes after resting a knee cyst injury. On the right, Bill Tuiloma is expected to start, fresh off his goal in the Leagues Cup.

The defensive line will likely see some changes in upcoming matches, with the recent signing of Toffolo and Souleyman Doumbia continuing his recovery, meaning he will not be on the roster tonight.

Viable substitutions for the back line include Andrew Privett, Nick Scardina, Nathan Byrne, and Jack Neeley.

Midfield

The usual powerhouse trio will be absent for this match, with Pep Biel sidelined by a hamstring injury and Ashley Westwood serving a suspension for yellow card accumulation.

But one man’s setback is another’s opportunity. Djibril Diani will likely start on the left side with Eryk Williamson on the right. At the head of the triangle will be Brandt Bronico, who previously filled this role against Orlando City in early July.

Given the notable absences, Smith will have limited midfield options, with Nikola Petković serving as the primary source of fresh legs.

Attacking Unit

Idan Toklomati is set to spearhead the attack, coming off a goal and a suspension following his red card against FC Juárez in the Leagues Cup.

Competition for the number nine position could soon intensify, with sources indicating Charlotte FC is closing in on a deal for Australian forward Archie Goodwin.

On the left flank, Wilfried Zaha is expected to return to the Starting XI after sitting out Thursday’s game, while Kerwin Vargas will likely feature on the right. After all, Vargas left fans head over heels in late July with a memorable goal against Toronto.

Notable attacking options off the bench include Liel Abada, Brandon Cambridge, and Tyger Smalls.

Charlotte FC has made it clear they aim to break into the top four in the Eastern Conference before the playoffs, and a win tonight could bring them one step closer to that goal.

Predicted Starting XI