Charlotte FC’s Predicted Starting XI vs Nashville SC

By Ryan Donahue

After an underwhelming defeat last weekend in Colorado, Charlotte FC returns home for an exciting Eastern Conference clash with Nashville SC. Both teams currently sit with ten points each, just above the top four, and with Charlotte’s home performances, fans can expect an exciting matchup on Saturday afternoon. Here’s how Charlotte is expected to line up this weekend.

Defensive unit

With Andrew Privett coming back into the team this weekend and a lackluster performance last weekend, Dean Smith may decide to make a big call and rest Tim Ream for what has been Smith’s preferred center back pairing alongside Adilson Malanda. Nathan Byrne is almost certain to feature on the right, and Souleyman Doumbia will likely continue on the left. However, if Smith were to make a change, resting Doumbia for Ream is a possibility.

Kristijan Kahlina will line up in goal.

Midfield line

The midfield trio will likely be the consistent trio anchored by Ashley Westwood and Brandt Bronico, who will cover box to box. In front of Westwood and Bronico, Charlotte’s central attacking role will feature Pep Biel, who continues to be a major threat when it comes to unlocking defenses this season. When Charlotte’s midfield shows up, they are one of the most difficult teams to play against in MLS.

Forward line

Despite not scoring last weekend, Dean Smith will almost certainly continue with his main front three, including Patrick Agyemang leading the line. The center forward has looked sharp in his international appearances but has struggled to get going so far this season. Tomorrow’s fixture could be a great opportunity for the striker to show what a threat he can be for defensive opposition as he looks to link up with his wingers, Wilfried Zaha and Liel Abada. Zaha is continuing to settle into life in the States, but as the winger gets more comfortable and in rhythm, his linkup with Agyemang will yield more chances for Charlotte’s offense.

Another option we could see is Idan Toklomati, who Smith recognized as the alternative option for Agyemang this season and has featured regularly off the bench so far. Toklomati will more than likely be a second-half feature, but could be the spark needed in the second half to get Charlotte the home points. The matchup against Nashville is a big one for Charlotte, both in terms of asserting themselves among the best in the Eastern Conference, but also for keeping themselves in the top four running, and with home form being one of Charlotte’s big strengths, points against Nashville are essential.