Sep 20, 2024

Charlotte FC's predicted XI against New England Revolution

By Ryan Donahue

Photo Courtesy of CJ Hellner

After another disappointing result to Orlando midweek, Charlotte will need to bounce back this weekend as the side take on the New England Revolution at home Saturday afternoon in what could be considered an absolute must win if Charlotte are to keep their playoff hopes alive.

With the side having not picked up three points since July, and New England who sit bottom of the eastern conference, anything less than a win for Dean Smith’s team could be devastating to their playoff hopes.

As Charlotte push through the remainder of the seasons fixtures, picking up points is still very much in reach but the side desperately will need to find their early season form to avoid dropping below the playoff line. Charlotte who sit just 2 points above qualification, have very winnable matches on the horizon. After New England, Charlotte’s toughest opposition will be Inter Miami, followed by winnable eastern matches against Montréal, Chicago Fire, and DC United, all of which sit toward the bottom of the East.

Ahead of the match, here's how Smith could look to line the side up to finally get the spark the team has been needing.

Defense

In defense, Adilson Malanda and Tim Ream will partner at the heart of defense with the reliable Jere Uronen and Nathan Byrne filling in as the outside backs. If Smith, did decide to make an adjustment, one potential option we could see come back into the side is Andrew Privett who played a large part in the success at the beginning of the season.

Midfield

In midfield, Smith will likely stick with his captain Ashley Westwood as the anchor in the midfield with Brandt Bronico, and Pep Biel sitting as the more attacking options. Other potential rotations due to the midweek fixture could include seeing Djibril Diani rotate for Bronico or Biel.

Attack

At offense, Smith will likely bring his strongest options with Liel Abada and Kerwin Vargas taking their spots on the wing. Although Patrick Agyemang got the start on Wednesday, Smith will likely revert back to deploying Karol Swiderski at center forward from the start with Agyemang off the bench in the second half.

With Charlotte desperately searching to rediscover their form, the team and Smith know they will have the backing of the home field supporters in what could be a season defining fixture for the city.