Charlotte’s Predicted Starting XI against NYCFC - Match Two
- Rylee Mckinney
- Nov 1
- 2 min read
Charlotte FC will face off against New York City FC today in their second match for the first round of the MLS playoffs. The first game in this best-of-three series resulted in a disappointing 1-0 loss for Charlotte. Today’s matchup is like a bad breakup—Charlotte FC will be looking for revenge!
Today’s match is make or break for Charlotte FC. A loss will send the squad back home to the Queen City, but a win will grant them one more shot at progressing in the playoffs. Here is how the squad is likely to lineup:
Defensive Unit
Kristijan Kahlina will likely earn the start tonight after his insane performance on Tuesday. His four saves in goal simply protected the squad from a worse loss at home.
In the left fullback position will likely be Harry Toffolo, who earned the start in the first playoff match against NYCFC. Partnered in the middle will likely be Tim Ream and Adilson Malanda once again. However, the pressure will be on for the center backs after a poor defensive performance on Tuesday, allowing Alonso Martínez an easy goal.
With Harry Toffolo back in the full swing of things, Nathan Byrne will likely assume the right fullback spot.
Pending the defense's performance today, Smith might just call upon some substitutes such as Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, Nick Scardina, Andrew Privett, and Bill Tuiloma.
Midfield
The midfield will likely remain the same for today’s matchup and will shape up in Charlotte’s favorite triangle lineup. On the left side will likely be Djibril Diani, who has consistently stepped up post Pep Biel’s season-ending injury.
To his right will likely be Captain Ashley Westwood, accompanied by Brandt Bronico in the attacking midfield spot.
Potential substitutions for the midfield will likely be Eryk Williamson and Nikola Petković.
Forward Line
After Tuesday’s shaken and discombobulated forward line, today’s attacking unit will hopefully restore what was lost. Despite a red card suspending Wilfried Zaha on Tuesday, he is expected to fall right back into the lineup for today’s rematch.
Zaha’s return will likely sideline Liel Abada despite Tuesday’s noble performance. Kerwin Vargas will likely start on the right side and will be expected to create some real opportunities today.
Leading the attack up top will likely be Idan Toklomati. Although Tuesday’s match was underwhelming for Toklomati, hopefully, Zaha’s presence can help rekindle his hunger.
Likely substitutes for the front line will be Archie Goodwin and Tyger Smalls.
Tuesday’s matchup really set the spooky vibes ahead of Halloween. However, today’s matchup marks the first of November, so the trick is over. Charlotte FC will need a win in order to continue their journey in the 2025 MLS Playoffs.
Predicted Starting XI
Comments