Charlotte FC's predicted starting XI vs Nashville SC

By Sean McGuffin - @SeanMCG704

Photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/TopBin90

Charlotte FC looks to continue its winning ways tonight against a red-hot Nashville SC team. The southern rivalry pits Charlotte against the top team in the East who came off a midweek 0-0 draw against Club America.

Here is our predicted Charlotte FC starting XI for tonight's game:

Defensive Unit

Charlotte has yet to record a clean sheet in a win this season, but the backline of Harry Toffolo, Tim Ream, Morrison, and Nathan Byrne is unlikely to change. No changes are expected in goal either. Kristijan Kahlina will face a Nashville team that has already scored 13 goals in 2026.

Andrew Privett, David Schnegg, Henry Kessler, and Jack Neeley will be available from the bench.

Midfield

Dean Smith spoke about a potential shakeup in the midfield with Pep Biel being rotated to the right wing. Ashley Westwood is in great form and will be the first name on the sheet in midfield, with Djibril Diani, Brandt Bronico, and Luca de la Torre all options to partner with him in the double pivot. The midfield continues to be experimental with Dean Smith looking to find the perfect combination at the core of the team. 

If Diani keeps his starting role, Bronico and de la Torre will be available substitutes. Smith mentioned in a recent presser that he liked what de la Torre was bringing to games as a substitute.

Forward line

We are guaranteed a change in the forward line after Wilfried Zaha’s fifth yellow in just six games. Kerwin Vargas and Liel Abada have been trading starts on the forward line, but tonight we will likely see both take the pitch to open the match. There still seems to be competition for the right-wing position, and only one will return to the starting 11 after Zaha’s return. Idan Toklomati is expected to remain in the striker role. 

Tyger Smalls will be available off the bench, as well as newly called-up forward Rodolfo Aloko. If Aloko doesn't see any minutes against Nashville, he is likely to debut in the US Open Cup match against Charlotte Independence.

Predicted Starting XI