Charlotte FC’s Predicted Starting XI vs Toronto FC

By Brian Maurer

Pep Biel and Ashley Westwood standing over a free kick (Photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/Topbin90)

After Charlotte FC's tough defeat on Wednesday against New York Red Bulls midweek they will look to bounce back quickly as they face Toronto FC on the road. After which, the Crown will have a much-needed bye week.

While Charlotte's road form has been abysmal to start the year, they will see this Toronto team as a good opportunity to get their road form on track, as Toronto has only won once at home.

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

Defensive unit

Kristijan Kahlina is expected to be in goal; he is currently going through a rough patch in form, but his starting role is still not in doubt. Dean Smith said Souleyman Doumbia is getting healthier after playing for a few minutes on Wednesday, but that the fullback is likely not ready to start yet. Smith mentioned that Tim Ream trained, so he should be back with the squad. It's difficult to say whether he is healthy enough to jump right back into the starting lineup.

The most likely backline is the same as last week (from left to right: Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, Andrew Privett, Adilson Malanda, and Nick Scardina). Ream and Doumbia are possible candidates for a sub role in this matchup.

Midfield line

Brandt Bronico will return from his yellow card accumulation suspension. He will likely join Captain Ashley Westwood in the middle of the field. Pep Biel will continue to play in the 10 role. Eryk Williamson was given the spot start to cover for Bronico on Wednesday, but did not impress enough for him to push Bronico or Westwood off their starting spots. Williamson will likely get a shot off the bench. Djibril Diani and Nikola Petkovic could also get opportunities to play off the bench.

Forward line

The forward line is likely to remain unchanged. Interestingly, Kerwin Vargas is earning starts over Liel Abada, as Smith said the two of them are competing for minutes. Recently, it looks like Vargas is winning that battle.

Wilfried Zaha will continue to feature on the left, and Patrick Agyemang will start up top. SuperDraft Pick Tyger Smalls provided good energy coming in, and expect him to be an option Smith uses off the bench tonight.

Predicted Starting XI