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By Brian Maurer Ashley Westwood (photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/Topbin90) MLS writer Matt Doyle published his grades for every MLS team this past week, and for Charlotte FC, he gave them a grade of "met expectations." It's a fair grade, and his assessment is likely common among many around the fanbase. Doyle's overall take was "[Charlotte FC] can grind out regular-season wins, but that's about it." The primary focus for Charlotte in 2026 will be their performance in the postseason, Leagues Cup, and US Open Cup. All tournaments, they should be able to compete in, but the Crown hasn't been able to make any serious movement under Dean Smith's leadership. In Smith's first two seasons, the Crown has never advanced past a Tier 1 team in tournament action. Smith has mentioned that his preference and view on success is to stay consistently rising in the table. Which he has done. The question now is silverware and qualifying for the Concacaf Champions Cup. Here is an early look at what I think Charlotte FC's grading expectations are for 2026, using a similar model to Doyle's grading system for 2025: exceeding, met, or below expectations: Exceeding Expectations - Winning Supporters' Shield or MLS Cup. If this team reaches the peak of MLS success either through their regular season consistency or with an exciting MLS Cup run, then they would have exceeded their season's expectations in my eyes. Met Expectations - Qualifying for Champions Cup or winning silverware. It's pretty straightforward what the next step up for this club is. Not accomplishing these feats would be below the club's own standards, which they have been setting, which is continued progress. They were one point from qualifying for the Champions Cup in 2025, so any progress made in the table this season should get them over the line. Below Expectations - If, at the end of this season, the conversation is "they are just one piece away" or "if this player or that player wasn't hurt at this time" or any of the other reasons that have been discussed in the past couple of seasons come up again, 2026 fails to live up to the hype. Sitting comfortably in the playoff picture won't be good enough, or satisfactory to a fanbase dying to see that next step taken in a city starved of trophies.

By Brian Maurer Luca de la Torre (photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/Topbin90) Charlotte FC's General Manager Zoran Krneta stated that new midfield signing Luca de la Torre "connects play and excels in progressing the ball." This statement is a good indicator from the front office chief that they have a concern with their ball progression and aim to improve in that area this offseason. The Crown finished the 2025 MLS season with the 18th most progressive passes*, placing them in the middle of the pack. In the final third, they were second-to-last in key passes and 14th in passes into the final third. All of these stats highlight that there is plenty of room for Charlotte to improve at progressing the ball into dangerous areas. The lack of ball progression last season forced Charlotte to be very dependent on shooting efficiency (second in MLS in goals per shot on target), which worked in 2025, but it's difficult to rely on long-term if they don't find ways to improve their overall attacking volume. In 2025, the Crown was second to last in shot-creating actions per 90 (18.59) and 26th in live pass SCAs per 90 (14.5). Ideally, de la Torre helps by connecting better passes to the forward line, who then have more opportunities to create, which theoretically gets these numbers up in 2026. Luca de la Torre's 2025 passing stats compared to Charlotte FC's 2025 midfielders Player SCAs per 90 Live pass SCAs per 90 Progressive Actions per 90** Passes into the final third De la Torre 2.42 2.09 14.21 4.47 Westwood 2.31 1.72 7.16 6.06 Bronico 1.67 1.32 8.34 3.22 Diani 1.02 .94 6.25 4.92 Last season, the USMNT midfielder averaged 2.85 progressive carries, 5.91 progressive passes, and 5.45 progressive passes received per 90. When comparing his progressive stats to Charlotte's three primary midfielders from last year (Ashley Westwood, Brandt Bronico, and Djibril Diani), he beats them in all three progressive categories. De la Torre averaged .94 key passes, 4.47 passes into the final third, and 1.06 passes into the penalty area per 90. Westwood had better numbers in all three of these categories, and Diani had slightly more passes into the final third. The midfielder had 2.42 SCAs per 90 with 2.09 live pass SCAs per 90. Westwood led Charlotte's midfielders with 2.31 SCAs per 90 and 1.72 live pass SCAs per 90, giving de la Torre an edge compared to the Crown's current midfielders in helping build play towards a shot. In 2025, Charlotte FC depended heavily on its shooting efficiency with limited attacking volume and ball progression. The signing of de la Torre indicates the team's aim to be stronger with the ball by controlling games in possession and moving the ball more methodically into dangerous areas on the field. Author note: Many might ask why I didn't use Pep Biel as a midfielder comparable, but based on the way Biel is used and plays, he is far more of a forward based on his positioning than a midfielder. *All stats used for this article were pulled from FBRef.com **Progressive actions = Progressive carries + progressive passes + progressive passes received

By Brian Maurer Liel Abada (photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/Topbin90) With the recent addition of midfielder Luca de la Torre, Charlotte FC now has 17 of its 20 senior roster spots filled for the upcoming season. There have also been recent reports that the Crown is receiving interest for Designated Player, Liel Abada, from clubs in the English Championship. Here is a breakdown of the current state of Charlotte's senior roster with de la Torre added and the options the Crown has if they move on from Abada: Goalkeeper Name 2025 Roster Designation Contract Guaranteed Salary as of fall 2025 Kristijan Kahlina TAM Player 2026; option 2027 $788,750 Now that the club has moved on from Drake Callender, the salary cap hit from the goalkeeper position makes sense again. It would have been a wild amount of dead cap money burned if there were two starting-caliber goalkeeper salaries on the senior roster heading into the 2026 season. Kahlina's salary currently takes up around 5% of the club's salary spend, and that salary cap portion should decrease as more new signings come in. Defenders Name 2025 Roster Designation Contract Guaranteed Salary as of fall 2025 Nathan Byrne TAM Player 2026; option 2027 $498,750 Andrew Privett 2028; option 2029 $251,400 Tim Ream TAM Player 2026; option 2027 $1,127,750 Harry Toffolo TAM Player (Int'l) 2028; option 2029 $1,020,000 Total Salary: $2,897,900 The defensive line has been invested in, but far more is likely still required to meet the needs of a grinding MLS season. I would expect at least one more, if not two more, senior roster signings along the backline to add both depth and starting-level competition. The defensive line currently takes up about 17% of the club's total salary, but that portion should go up as the winter rolls along. Midfielders Name 2025 Roster Designation Contract Guaranteed Salary as of fall 2025 Brandt Bronico 2027; option 2028 $389,000 Baye Coulibaly U22 Initiative (Int'l) 2028; option 2029 $269,500 Djibril Diani International 2026 $337,944 Luca de la Torre TAM 2029; option 2030 $1,644,295 Nikola Petkovic U22 Initiative (Int'l) 2026; option 2027 $466,250 Ashley Westwood TAM 2026; option 2027 $783,333 Total Salary: $3,890,322 The Crown's midfield finally got another big signing with the de la Torre transfer. The midfield line was an area with a desperate need for investment, when the highest-paid player in the middle is 35. The other odd man out in this group right now is Nikola Petkovic. He is on a cap-friendly deal as a U22 Initiative player, but the transfer fee (~$3m) and the roster designation won't be worth a third year of limited appearances. The Serbian currently has as many MLS appearances as he does MLS NEXT Pro appearances. He is entering his third season with the First Team. Petkovic either needs to find his way on the field, or Charlotte needs to find a way to get that U22 Initiative spot opened up. The Charlotte midfield is taking up about 24% of the salary spend, and that number could increase if Petkovic gets moved and more reinforcements are brought in. Forwards Name 2025 Roster Designation Contract as of fall Guaranteed Salary as of fall 2025 Liel Abada Designated Player (Int'l) 2026; option 2027 $2,548,500 Pep Biel 2026 Designated Player (Int'l) 2026; option 2027 ~$2,000,000* Archie Goodwin International 2028 $341,187 Idan Toklomati U22 Initiative (Int'l) 2027; option 2028 $452,700 Kerwin Vargas 2027; option 2028 $683,750 Wilfried Zaha Designated Player (Int'l) June 2026 $2,751,667 Total Salary: $8,777,804 Charlotte has spent a bunch of money on their forward line, which is pretty standard for MLS, given the roster rules. Things could get interesting if Abada is sold during this winter window. It would free up a DP and international spot, giving the team flexibility to either sign a new DP or U22 Initiative, depending on which model the team opts for. The Crown also has a high-level prospect in Rodolfo Aloko, who was brought in on a large transfer fee and will be joining this preseason. He would likely require a U22 Initiative spot on the senior roster if he doesn't start at Crown Legacy. The forwards account for about 54% of the salary spend. Given some of the rumors swirling around the club, that number could increase even more if Abada is sold and a big incoming transfer hits the books. Overall state of Charlotte FC's roster The de la Torre signing added an upgrade in investment in the position group that needed the most spending. The Crown still has three open senior roster spots, and looking at their salaries released last fall and by estimating the amount of allocation money the club currently has, there should be plenty of spending power to bolster the roster with more moves this winter. This is also supported by several rumors and reports of players Charlotte is currently interested in (e.g., Antoine Griezmann, David Alaba, and Harvey Elliott). The Crown looks to be willing to spend and make win-now type moves. Those moves could be enhanced even further if an Abada transfer comes through. *There is no report yet on Biel's new salary, it has been reported that his new permanent contract that he earned based on his performance in 2025 will make him a DP, so the above $2m salary is an estimation.

Photo Courtesy of Cj Hellner/Topbin90 Liel Abada recently went on ONE’s “Today’s Conversation” podcast in Israel to discuss his time at Charlotte FC, the struggles he has faced this past season, his near move to a Championship side in the summer, and what the future may hold. Below are some excerpts from the interview highlighting key points shared by the Israeli DP winger. Please note: Google Translate was used for these excerpts, so the translations may not be 100% word-for-word accurate to Liel Abada’s original comments. The 2025 season at Charlotte FC When asked to reflect on his most recent season, Abada offered an honest assessment of both the team’s success and his personal struggles: From a team perspective, it was a good season that ended in fourth place. Personally, there were ups and downs, and it was a less than good season mentally as well. In the end, the coach decides who plays and who doesn't. I work hard to give my 100% every practice, every game. In the end, it's always up to you: If you're good, you'll play, and if not, then you won't. Liel Abada had a tough second season at Charlotte FC. In 39 appearances across all competitions, he recorded six goals and two assists, a production that fell short of expectations for a player reportedly acquired from Celtic FC for a transfer fee around $8 million, with a guaranteed salary of approximately $2.5 million per year. The Israeli attacker also addressed the pressure that came with his price tag: It doesn't go through my head at all (the fee Charlotte paid for him). I think I came with the starting goal of showing good ability to give what I know. Last season it was less, but it's also because I played less in the end, you need to play to show good ability to score goals and assist, and that happened less for me last season. I'm not saying I was 100% I could have done much better, but this is a season I'm learning from, and next season I'll keep going, I'll fix things. There are times when I would eat myself up from the inside, but I always believe in myself and want to improve, and that's something that has characterized me throughout my career. Idan Toklomati's development Abada also spoke about fellow Israeli Idan Toklomati and his journey within the club, including his early time with Crown Legacy FC: At first, he wasn't with us; he was with the other group (Crown Legacy). Mentally, it was hard for him. I was always there for him to lift him, telling him his chances would come. The club told him to be patient; they'd take it step by step. After Patrick Agyemang was sold, his chance came, and he seized it. He has an amazing character, a good kid beyond soccer, and I'm happy for him. Failed loan move to the Championship Abada confirmed that Charlotte FC received a loan offer from Europe during the summer window , and the club rejected it because they didn't have a replacement for him: Interviewer: We understand that few months ago, you asked to leave. Did you have an offer? Abada: Yeah, because I wasn't playing and I wanted to go play, and they wouldn't let me. I respected their decision, but in the end, it turned out that even after I didn't play. The Interviewer pressed Abada a bit on the league and team, and he let it be known that the offer was from the championship and explained why Charlotte FC didn't let him go: Abada: Simply because it was the end of the window, then they didn’t really have anyone to bring in because there was like a day or two to close the window, and they didn’t have anyone to replace me. And they weren’t lying to me. I respected it, you know, I moved on. But you see, in the end, I didn’t play, and that really hurt me. But now let’s see what happens. I don’t know. From what I understand, they are very happy with me and want me to stay, but I want to play, so we will have to see what happens. Interviewer: You have a contract here now (Charlotte FC), and they have to decide there's an option next season, and I believe they won't drag it till the last minute. Where is this going? Can you share without naming any names if there are teams interested in acquiring you these days? Abada: Ultimately, it depends on Charlotte what they want, if they want me to stay or if they want to move me, but let’s see what happens. I don’t know right now. It’s still early. The window only opens in January, and in the MLS, you have until April. Let’s see. Right now, I’m starting the season with Charlotte. MLS's growth Liel Abada also spoke on MLS and how it's attracting more Israeli Players: It's a very good league. People think it's a league for people who come before retirement, and that's not true. There are a lot of young people, and the level has improved a lot. There's a lot more money in this league than there is in the European leagues, and that's what attracts the players to come. The culture is different because there are more central branches: it's more of a show, and they come to enjoy themselves. There's not the pressure that there is in Europe. A few crucial weeks lie ahead for Abada and Charlotte FC as both sides look for the best solution for the struggling DP. With Charlotte rumored to be targeting another winger and a center back, we could see the Israeli depart as the club looks to bolster its squad, while Abada searches for more consistent minutes. Watch the full interview on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7pvdnk64As&t=32s

By Sam Vanolinda Photo Courtesy of CJ Hellner Another Charlotte FC season is in the books. 2025 was a year of ups and downs, excitement and disappointment, and hamstring injuries. Lots of hamstring injuries. While another first-round exit was a tough pill to swallow, this was statistically Charlotte’s best season and an improvement on 2024. All you want from a young sports franchise is to watch it grow into a consistent playoff team. With Smith at the helm, I’m confident in this team's ability to make the postseason year after year. The team now needs to take another step by winning a playoff series. To get to that point, they need a good offseason and to address some needs. Let’s take a look at some of the top performers in the 2025 season and some needs to address as we sink into the offseason: Player of the Season Wilfried Zaha It looked like Pep Biel would easily be the unanimous player of the season after he carried Charlotte to a great start, but unfortunately, injuries derailed his year. My player of the season is Zaha. He stepped up when Biel went down and led the team to fourth place despite a nigtmareish month of May. Once he got settled into the MLS style of play and shook off the rust, he was playing just like he was in blue and red back in South London. Drawing fouls, completing dribbles, creating havoc on the left side of the field, and being a leader for the squad. Zaha ended the year with 10 goals and 10 MLS assists, totaling 20 contributions in 31 games; an amazing first year. Zaha was fouled 111 times in the 2025 season. That is 33 more than the next closest, Carlos Gil. It is understated how much value that brings to a team, and how much pressure it puts on the opponent. What Charlotte needs to key on now, if Zaha stays, is how to take advantage of the set pieces Wilf creates and the yellow cards he draws. Rising Star Idan Toklomati  Toklomati impressed me when I watched him at Wakemed Soccer Park during the preseason. I could see the energy and hustle that he possessed, and I thought he could be a key player for the first team later in the year. After his first few substitute appearances, the idea of losing Patrick Agyemang was slightly less scary, and once Pat headed to Derby County, Toklomati broke onto the scene. 11 goals and four MLS assists in his first MLS season, which he started at the age of 20, is incredible.  It is not easy to find a consistent striker, and the fact that Charlotte found another right after Agyemang left is a testament to the club's scouting and player development. I am excited to see what the future holds for Toklomati. He is a player with both class and energy that resonates with the rest of the team. Defender of the Year Adilson Malanda  In his final year for Charlotte, Malanda proved why he has received so much attention from Europe. The month of May was terrible for the whole defense, but besides that slip-up, Malanda was his usual self, both adept on the ball and off. He has flashes of quality that make you think he could be playing for one of the top clubs in Europe one day; while he still has mistakes he needs to iron out, the development in the Championship could set him up for future greatness. Malanda is a modern center back. He can pick out a pass and is relaxed in possession, but can also sit back in a low block and be a brick wall. He will be missed in the Queen City. Most Improved  Kerwin Vargas In his overall quality of play and consistency, Vargas was the most improved player for me. He is one of the hardest-working defensive wingers I have ever watched at any level of football, and he has also improved his offensive contribution. While he was competing for his spot as starting right wing at the start of the year, he proved his value to the club with good appearances off the bench and ended up securing the starting spot on the right. In 19 starts, he recorded six goals and three assists, an impressive contribution. His effort and work rate on both sides of the field are what make him a fan favorite. I am excited to see more somersaults from the Colombian in the future. Offseason Needs: Overall Depth:  The most critical task in the offseason is bringing in players who can contribute and provide good bench depth to give the team a boost late in games. It was obvious against NYCFC that the opponent had far superior substitute players who could come in and provide both quality and energy. In Charlotte’s case, the subs are mostly fringe young players; while injuries did play a role in the lack of depth, the team needs to invest in proven players to step in and help. With more veteran presence coming off the bench, Charlotte FC can be more confident going into a playoff series, even if they have to play three games in quick succession. I don't think this offseason is about the massive-name players, but more about the under-the-radar moves the team will make to secure depth. Veteran Striker  Charlotte has two exciting young forwards, Toklomati and Archie Goodwin, but they need a veteran striker to help mentor them and provide quality up front. Someone willing to come in and not expect to start every game, but who can help the young guys develop, and also provide quality minutes. While finding a player like that can be tough, we can go into depth on some potential players in future articles. Malanda Replacement Malanda leaving leaves a big gap at center back. While Andrew Privett and Bill Tuiloma could fill that role, Charlotte could use another young, talented center defender to lock down the middle. Tim Ream isn’t getting any younger, and while still a great player, I’m sure Dean Smith will prioritize strengthening the back line, especially if he wants to play counterattacking football. Midfield Playmaker While Biel, when healthy, is one of the best 10s in the league, Charlotte could use not only depth at that position, but also another player who can create chances for the Crown alongside him. Bronico and Westwood are hard-working midfielders, but don’t have the creative flair to create great chances, something that was missing in the NYCFC series. I'm thinking of a player who can drive the ball forward from their own half, pick out a decisive pass, and beat defenders off the dribble. While finding a player of that quality is easier said than done, there is so much talent to be seen, whether it's a young prospect from South America or an older player looking for a fresh start outside Europe. Summary  As the offseason progresses, we will begin to hear rumors and report on players who could be an excellent fit for Charlotte. Reflecting on the 2025 season, Charlotte FC beat expectations, but with the quality of the team and the leadership of Dean Smith, it still feels like they have more to show in the future. Charlotte, as a sports city, has become so used to a losing culture that it is refreshing to see a team consistently win, especially at home. Now it is time for Charlotte to reload and make another run for some silverware.

By: Sebastian Quiroz-Gutierrez Photo Courtesy of TopBin90 Charlotte FC's 2025 campaign ended the same way it did a year ago — full of promise in the regular season, but short of expectations in the playoffs. Under Dean Smith, now finishing his second season in charge, Charlotte surged late with a nine-game MLS win streak to clinch fourth in the Eastern Conference and home-field advantage in round one of the playoffs. However once again, postseason goals proved elusive. After scoring just one goal in their 2024 first-round exit to Orlando City, Charlotte managed only one goal across three games against New York City FC in 2025. That brings Smith’s playoff record to two first-round exits and two goals in six postseason matches — a frustrating ceiling for a side that continues to progress during the regular season. With the offseason underway and roster decisions looming, several key questions surround which familiar faces will return and who could be on the move ahead of 2026. Confirmed Departure: Adilson Malanda The only major confirmed exit so far came back in August when center back Adilson Malanda joined Middlesbrough on August 20. His departure opens the door for Andrew Privett to step into a starting role alongside veteran Tim Ream, but depth remains a concern. As Tom Bogert, a Senior Writer for The Athletic   noted on the  Soccerwise  podcast, “Charlotte will need to sign a serious center back to compete and have cover for Privett and Ream.” Expect center-back reinforcements to be high on the club’s offseason priority list. Likely Departures and Contract Situations Beyond Malanda, several other players could be on their way out as Charlotte reshapes their roster. Nikola Petkovic  – Contract through 2026 (option 2027). The young U22 midfielder never cemented a place in the first team despite opportunities down the stretch. Bogert summed it up bluntly: “That experiment has to be over.” A departure looks highly probable. Eryk Williamson  – Contract through 2025, no option year. Limited minutes this season make his exit a near-certainty. Djibril Diani  – Contract through 2025 (option 2026). Showed flashes of quality but inconsistency leaves his future uncertain; could depend on whether the club exercises his option year for 2026. Bill Tuiloma  – Contract through 2025 (option 2026). Another case where the club’s decision on the option year will dictate his future. Liel Abada  – Contract through 2026 (option 2027). Began 2025 brightly but faded in the second half, losing form and confidence. His Designated Player slot may be key to Charlotte’s roster flexibility, making him a possible candidate to move if the club opts to reset in attack. David Bingham  – Contract through 2025, no option year. At 36 and serving as one of the backup goalkeepers, he is expected to depart when his deal expires. One To Watch Photo Courtesy of Topbin90 Kerwin Vargas is another player who could see a move abroad in the upcoming transfer window. The Colombian winger was the subject of a late bid this summer that Charlotte FC rejected. Multiple teams are monitoring Vargas’ situation at the club, and according to a source, at least two more clubs could make a bid for the winger this winter. The Designated Player and U22 Initiative Puzzle Roster mechanics will shape Charlotte’s offseason as much as individual performances. MLS clubs must choose one of two models next season: Standard DP Model: 3 Designated Players + 3 U22 Initiatives Enhanced U22 Model: 2 Designated Players + 4 U22 Initiatives + up to $2 million in extra General Allocation Money (GAM) In 2025, Charlotte operated under the second model with two DPs — Wilfried Zaha and Liel Abada — plus four U22 Initiatives: Kerwin Vargas, Idan Toklomati, Baye Coulibaly, and Nikola Petkovic. Next year, Pep Biel returns from injury as a Designated Player, joining Zaha and Abada. That temporarily gives Charlotte three DPs while still holding the same four U22 contracts — one too many under MLS rules. To comply, the club must either: move to the 3 DP + 3 U22 structure (likely meaning Petkovic’s exit), or stay with 2 DP + 4 U22s and shed one of the Designated Players — possibly Abada, if a suitable offer arises. While not the central storyline of this offseason, Charlotte’s core is aging fast. Ashley Westwood (36), Tim Ream (38), Nathan Byrne (33), Kristijan Kahlina (33), and Wilfried Zaha (32) bring experience but also underscore the need for succession planning. What’s Official, and What’s Next The only confirmed piece of business this offseason is Brandt Bronico’s contract extension through 2027 (option 2028), announced on November 12. Everything else remains fluid. With roster decisions due in the coming weeks, the main storylines are clear: How will Charlotte balance its DP and U22 slots? Who among Petkovic, Abada, Diani, and Tuiloma stays? And can Dean Smith finally pair regular-season momentum with postseason breakthroughs? Charlotte FC will enter 2026 with one of the most flexible rosters in MLS and perhaps their most pivotal offseason yet.

By Brian Maurer Photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/Topbin90 Charlotte FC saved their season with a big PK shootout result in New York last weekend, returning home-field advantage to their playoff series. Now the focus turned to whether Charlotte's attack could put goals up in a crucial home playoff match, something they have never done before. The Charlotte faithful's pre-match Poznan set the tone for a high-energy start for the Crown's fast, high-pressure through the first few minutes of the match. They controlled the vast majority of the first half, but a decision to go for an aggressive long throw to close out the first half turned into a dangerous counter for New York, who clinically finished their chance. The second half started poorly for Charlotte as well, as they gave up a second on a one-on-one where Alonso Martinez buried his chance, making the Crown look dead in the water. Then seemingly out of nowhere, Idan Toklomati put away a chance that fell to him from an Archie Goodwin assist, giving them life with less than 10 minutes and another 12 of stoppage time. Unfortunately, Charlotte couldn't find an equalizer, and New York was able to chip home a third dagger late. Kristijan Kahlina - 5/10 Kahlina had to save one comfortable free kick and collect one searching cross that looked dangerous, but other than that, it was a comfortable first half for the Croatian keeper until New York took advantage of Charlotte putting numbers forward on a long throw. In the second half, Kahlina didn't have to face much volume besides the second New York counterattack goal, but again, not much he could have done with the one-on-one chance. He faced a third one-on-one chance and was chipped on the third goal to ice the game for NYCFC. Harry Toffolo - 6/10 In possession, Toffolo would get high down the left, giving Zaha the flexibility to push more centrally to get on the ball in the final third. He posed as a great outlet on the left wing in the attacking half. Toffolo continued to play extremely high, especially down the stretch when Charlotte was looking for an equalizing goal. He put a dangerous header in towards Goodwin, but his acrobatic scorpion kick was nowhere near. Tim Ream - 4/10 Ream's presence and one-on-one defending were strong through the first 30 minutes of the first half. The only hiccup on what was otherwise a great first half was the one-on-three after the long throw, but most defenders stranded on that island aren't going to be able to do much in that spot. In the second half, Ream and Malanda struggled a bit more to stay compact and keep sound shape, allowing New York to find opportunities and a second goal. On the third goal, Ream and Zaha both failed to stop Wolf as he drove forward strongly on the counter to put the game to bed. Adilson Malanda - 4/10 Malanda's passing was aggressive early, but he had multiple passes that led to turnovers in bad areas. Defensively, he and Ream looked strong through the first half until the New York counter that led to Charlotte going down 1-0. Malanda and Ream looked less stable and were drawn out of position more in the second half, leading to a second goal scored by NYCFC in the second half. The third goal was on a last-ditch scramble as Charlotte put all their numbers forward. Nathan Byrne - 4/10 Byrne's support with the high press helped keep New York pinned back through the first stretch of Game 3. Hannes Wolf didn't have many dangerous moments early, largely due to the recoveries from both Byrne and Vargas. New York found two goals, one at the end of the first half and at the start of the second half both involved Byrne as he couldn't manage the last ditch defending well enough. The first goal was tricky to blame any one player, as it was Smith's coaching decision that led to that heavy counterattack. The second goal was Alonso Martinez being distinctly faster, stronger, and more composed in that moment. Djibril Diani - 5/10 Diani was able to provide support with his press and as a runner in the box early on with a chance at a free header that sailed high. Throughout the majority of the first half, Diani's pressing and work rate were strong, but Charlotte's midfield got played through a lot more in the second half as New York began to impose itself on the game. Ashley Westwood - 5/10 Westwood faced another game in this series where he struggled to make the impact needed from the captain in a make-or-break game. Defensively, Westwood and Diani's work in the middle was solid pressing during the first half. After going down 2-0, he put in a good cross into Vargas, who hit the side netting and had more of an impact in attacking build-up, but it felt like it was too little too late. Brandt Bronico - 5/10 Bronico was key at the top of Charlotte's press early on and had a moment to turn the tide with a go-ahead goal from a Toklomati layoff, but he put his shot over the bar. While the pressing and running from the midfielder was solid, he had a moment to change the game, and he failed to do so and was eventually subbed for Archie Goodwin in the 61st minute. Wilfried Zaha - 6/10 Zaha started Game 3 well, making an impact early, getting on the ball and distributing, setting up multiple attacks in the final third. Unfortunately, the key moment never came in the first half, which set up the moment for New York to steal the thunder in stoppage time during the first 45. In the second half, Zaha's frustration started to boil over as New York continued to get under his skin. Idan Toklomati - 7/10 Toklomati found multiple dangerous moments, but his biggest moment was when he couldn't quite pull the trigger, and then he decided to dish it to Bronico, who put his shot over the bar. Toklomati struggled to make an impact through most of the second half, but when the ball fell to him in the six, he slotted it home coolly to give the Crown a chance at a comeback. Kerwin Vargas - 5/10 Vargas' work rate on the high press early helped keep Charlotte on the front foot and provided multiple recovery runs to support Byrne defensively as well. He struggled to make the offensive impact needed in the second half and was subbed by Liel Abada in the 78th minute. Archie Goodwin - 7/10 Subbed in for Bronico in the 61st minute. He made an impact with his first goal contribution as a Charlotte FC player with an assist to Toklomati, as the Crown attempted to mount a comeback. Liel Abada - 5/10 Subbed in for Vargas in the 78th minute, and struggled to make the attacking impact needed off the bench.

Charlotte FC's Starting XI against NYFC in match one (Photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/TopBin90) Friday night lights will be on tonight as Charlotte FC battles against NYCFC in their last best-of-three match! A win tonight will propel the Crown into the Eastern Conference Semifinals.  So far, the squad has suffered a 1-0 loss in the first match. Yet, they came back with a vengeance in the second match, earning a narrow win in penalties.  Charlotte’s playoff journey will be on the line tonight! Here is how the squad is most likely to line up: Defensive Unit With an amazing performance in last week’s penalty shootout, Kristijan Kahlina earned himself the player of the match. So, he will likely hold down the back line again for tonight’s match. Harry Toffolo will likely start again at left fullback, as he has started in the last two matches.  Dynamic duo, Adilson Malanda and Tim Ream, will likely start in the center. After a less-than-best performance in the first match, Malanda and Ream will need to step up the focus for the defensive unit. On the right side will likely be Nathan Byrne, who has returned to the starting lineup with extreme grace post-injury.  The defensive bench will be full tonight with Nick Scardina, Andrew Privett, Jahkeele-Marshall Rutty, and Bill Tuiloma as potential substitutes.  Midfield To no one’s surprise, the midfield lineup will likely mirror the same triangle that fans saw for most of Charlotte’s season. Djibril Diani, scoring both of his penalty attempts, will likely start on the left side.  On the right side will likely be Captain Ashley Westwood. His promise to fans for a fourth-place ranking held true, but Westwood will have to deliver in the midfield for tonight’s match to be successful.  Leading the triangle up top will likely be Brandt Bronico, who did not have the most outstanding performance last match. Hopefully, tonight will change the tide for Bronico.  Warming the bench for the midfield will likely be Eryk Williamson and Nikola Petković. Forward Line Charlotte FC’s Tallisman player, Wilfried Zaha, will likely start on the left side. Zaha will be an essential threat to the integrity of NYCFC’s back line. To his right will once again most likely be Kerwin Vargas, whose energy always brings intensity to Charlotte’s forward line.  Idan Toklomati will likely lead the charge against NYCFC tonight up top. Despite some opportunities in the last match, Toklomati struggled to find the net. After all, the best way to win games is to score, so the forward line will need to perform tonight.  Viable substitutes for the front line will be Archie Goodwin, Liel Abada, and Tyger Smalls. Tonight, Charlotte will have to give their all. It is simply do or die at this point. Fans can expect some paper cuts tonight as the match’s intensity will likely be met with several yellow cards and maybe…..even some red cards. All of this is to say that the squad will need to play composed yet competitive for tonight’s matchup. Predicted Starting XI

By Brian Maurer Photo: CJ Hellner/Topbin90 Charlotte FC needed to find a response in a do-or-die game at Yankee Stadium. With Wilfried Zaha back in the squad, Charlotte had more threat going forward and it looked like Dean Smith opted to go for it as both fullbacks and his midfield played higher up through the first 20 plus minutes of the match. That attacking pressure was close to paying off late in the first half as they had several good chances. The second half started well for Charlotte, but as the half wore on New York started to mount pressure, but Charlotte's defense was able to bend without breaking forcing a penalty shootout to save their 2025 season. In penalties, Charlotte fell behind when Ashley Westwood missed his penalty, but after New York had a PK go wide, the shootout went to extra PK rounds, where Kristijan Kahlina stepped up to save the day. Kristijan Kahlina - 8/10 Kahlina's role was minimal in the first half as Malanda and Ream handled the pressure in front of them. In the second half the match opened up significantly forcing Kahlina to make several more saves, although none of them were anything exceptional. Kahlina did his job in regulation. In penalties, Kahlina stepped up and made a big time save to keep their playoff run alive, turning his performance into a top one. Harry Toffolo - 6/10 Toffolo created Charlotte FC's first chance off of combination play with Zaha and then a cross into the box. He was set up with a great look by a Toklomati back heel but he missed a wide open look with his left. Toffolo's assignment got far more difficult in the second half as the game became wide open. However, his ability to cover and support from Diani helped limit the defensive fragility from that side. Toffolo's penalty was scary because he slipped but he slotted it home. Tim Ream - 7/10 Ream and Malanda managed the attacking pressure from New York well through the first 45. In the second half the defensive performance became far more shaky as the pressure of the season being on the line created an open game. He was asked to do a lot of running through the final minutes of a very intense match. Adilson Malanda - 6/10 Through the first 45 Malanda and Ream both managed the pressure left from the space left by the team playing higher and looking to go for goal. Malanda had a similar rating and performance to Ream but he had one extra poor moment where he fouled a New York attacker just outside the box giving them an unnecessary free kick from 20 yards. In penalties, he drilled his shot giving Charlotte Nathan Byrne - 6/10 Byrne's right hand side is where several dangereous moments came for New York in the first half. Charlotte wasn't punished by any of them but it looked like Charlotte's right flank was a target. He had a bad wiff in the second half which put him out of position in the second half where New York had a dangerous moment. He continued to get caught out of position leaving space in behind, and eventually was issued a yellow for a bad foul just outside the box. He also drilled his penalty to help secure the win. Djibril Diani - 6/10 Diani played a bit higher alongside Westwood and both left space in behind that New York was able to exploit at times. Diani's pressure playing higher provided countering opportunities early on but his possession was not strong enough when he made progressive passes to the attacking line. Diani gave up a silly foul earning a yellow card in the early part of the second half, which didn't do him any favors on his performance. He was able to help support some of the gaps left by Toffolo as he stayed high and the match began to open up. Diani stepped up and drilled his penalty. Ashley Westwood - 6/10 Westwood and his midfield pivot partner Diani both started the game playing a bit high leaving space to operate between their midfield and backline. New York were able to create multiple counter attacks off of that space in midfield. By the end of the first half, Westwood's higher pressure was close to paying off as he had a shot that hit the woodwork late in the first 45. While the second half opened up, the most memorable moment from the Captain's performance is going to be his missed PK which put the Crown behind early in the penalty shootout. Brandt Bronico - 8/10 Bronico started the game in his typical high pressing from his midfield role and had Charlotte's first real chance in the first 15 minutes with a shot off the crossbar. He was then involved in two more great chances by Charlotte as the first half wound down. The second half started strong for Bronico as well as he continued to find the ball while making runs into space. He looked like one of Charlotte's most impactful players before he was subbed by Archie Goodwin. Wilfried Zaha - 7/10 Zaha drew an early yellow from New York's Aiden O'Neill, and was able to create a few dangerous moments especially with his combination play with Toffolo along the left-hand side. Zaha used New York's defensive focus to open play up for his teammates. A good example of this in the first half was when he took the ball centrally and put Bronico through on the right. Bronico's cross found Toffolo open in the box. Zaha slotted his PK home to keep Charlotte's playoff hopes alive. Idan Toklomati - 6/10 Toklomati took a bit of time to find his place in the game, but as the first half wore on he was involved in Charlotte's best chance where he backheeled a pass onto the foot of a wide open Toffolo. Unfortunately the finish wasn't there. Toklomati continued to be involved in the attack through the second half but wasn't able to make that impact moment happen. The Israeli striker drilled his penalty in the shootout. Kerwin Vargas - 5/10 Vargas' right hand side was exploited multiple times by NYC as most of their attacks came down his flank. He had a good moment where he headed a set piece back towards runners but Freese was able to gather the ball. Vargas' performance had a couple moments but nothing significant which describes his overall play from today. Archie Goodwin - 6/10 Goodwin subbed on for Brandt Bronico in the 74th minute. Goodwin wasn't able to provide an attacking impact that was needed to help get the team across the line in regulation. In penalties he stepped up and put his PK past Freese. A big moment for the summer signing.

Idan Toklomati competes for the header (Photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/TopBin90) 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

By Sam Vanolinda Adilson Malanda (Photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/TopBin90) Charlotte FC began its playoff run Tuesday night, hosting NYCFC at the Bank on a cold, rainy night in the Queen City. The bleak weather foreshadowed a poor performance for Charlotte, with a 0-1 loss leaving them with a hill to climb to advance to the next round. The Crown didn’t have a clear-cut big chance in the game and was outshot 12-10 by New York. The team lacked any creativity, delivering aimless cross after aimless cross into the box. I had a feeling Wilfried Zaha’s absence could have a massive impact on this game, but I also hoped Charlotte could squeeze out a win. But it was not to be. The gap left by Zaha was not filled by Liel Abada, who had a frightful game on this Halloween week. It was a frustrating watch because you could see how valuable Zaha would’ve been in such a physical and tense playoff game. This was the type of situation he thrives in, but his emotions took a toll on the team. All we can do now is look towards Yankee Stadium. Zaha has the chance to redeem himself and solidify all the great work he has done this season by carrying the team to victory. Harry Toffolo said post-game Zaha delivered a talk to the team and is “raring to go.” Here’s the stock up/stock down for Tuesday night’s defeat: Stock Up: Kerwin Vargas In a game where no players stood out, Vargas at least showed some heart and looked more lively than any other attacker. His deflected shot early in the second half was one of Charlotte’s only half-chances of the game.  Vargas thrives when Zaha draws the defender's attention on the other side of the field, but he still had a solid game against New York; he will make a significant impact on Saturday. Stock Down: Harry Toffolo, Tim Ream, Adilson Malanda Overall, these three didn't have horrible games, but they were all culprits as Alonso Martinez dribbled through them like training cones and scored the game-winning goal. Defending is a tough job because you can play well and be judged because of one moment, but in a playoff game at home, you cannot lose focus like they did. Credit to Martinez for a world-class solo effort, but the defense was middle school-level.  Liel Abada Abada had a chance to solidify his future at Charlotte with a great performance in this game. After being benched during the season, Zaha’s suspension gave him a chance to shine. He then lost possession on his first touch of the game and had absolutely no impact on the match. Abada was subbed in the 65th minute with zero chances created, zero successful dribbles, and was dispossessed twice. Idan Toklomati  Toklomati was tested on his ability to create chances for himself with both Biel and Zaha out. While he did make one chance for Bronico in the first half, he was shut down for most of the game. Toklomati has excelled with the service provided to him, but he can understandably struggle when the offense is stagnant. It doesn’t help that the service he received was mediocre. The team ran out of ideas in the second half, and the crosses were being met by a low block that was impossible to break down. Toklomati could have a significant impact in Yankee Stadium with Zaha back in the lineup. Djibril Diani  Diani was too loose with possession in the first half. His turnovers created dangerous counterattacking opportunities for NYCFC, who hit the crossbar directly after Diani turned the ball over.  While the Frenchman has flashes of brilliance at times, pushing the ball forward effectively, he is too inconsistent, and being clumsy with the ball in a vulnerable position like center mid is a recipe for disaster.  Wilfried Zaha I don't want to pile the blame on Zaha, but every single Charlotte FC fan knows how much he would've impacted this game. Towards the end of the season, Zaha was putting the offense on his back, scoring, assisting, and drawing fouls to create set-piece opportunities. He fits so perfectly in an intense playoff atmosphere. Playing in the Premier League for so long, he embraces physicality and big moments. With that said, I have all the confidence in the world that he will deliver in Yankee Stadium and send us back to Charlotte for game three.

By Brian Maurer Photo courtesy of CJ Hellner / Topbin90 Charlotte FC looked like a team missing its most dangerous attacker for the majority of the first half. The Crown was able to mount a bit of pressure towards minute 40, but by then the team had already allowed a goal by Alonso Martinez after lazy team defending. A wake-up call from Dean Smith was needed at halftime to change the Crown's fortunes. Unfortunately, that wake-up call never came, and the attack continued to look toothless without their key man, Wilfried Zaha. Kristijan Kahlina - 5/10 Kahlina was able to make the saves he could, but had to deal with Martinez cutting through the Charlotte backline like butter. That Martinez goal wasn't on Kahlina. The second half was relatively quiet for him, but the damage in the match was already done in the first 45. Harry Toffolo - 5/10 A question for Toffolo was how he would combine with Abada? Turns out he wasn't able to help unlock the winger. He also failed to step on Alonso Martinez's dribble drive and score. Displayed an ability with good crosses from the left, but wasn't able to make a serious impact and was involved in lazy defending in what turned out to be the key moment in the game. Tim Ream - 4/10 Charlotte needed Ream to be a veteran presence in key defensive moments, and instead, he was one of four defenders who failed to step up and stop Martinez on his goal. While he and Malanda stayed more compact the rest of the match, the damage had already been done. Adilson Malanda - 4/10 This might have been Malanda's last game at Bank of America Stadium. The Frenchman was one of four defenders who failed to step up and defend Martinez on the goal, and while he didn't make any other major mistakes, and also had some solid progressive passes; he made the most crucial of mistakes in a bad moment. Nathan Byrne - 6/10 How did Byrne show up in his 100th appearance? Well, he was the only defender not involved in Martinez's goal against in the first half, and little of New York's attacking threat came from his side, even when New York's Hannes Wolf was subbed on. A quiet showing from a defender is usually a sign of a halfway decent game, but he wasn't able to provide enough connection going forward either. Ashley Westwood - 5/10 Westwood played several long balls throughout the first half, but could not quite find the target to set up enough dangerous attacks. Was one of four defenders who failed to close down Alonso Martinez on his goal. Throughout the game, his ball progression was not clinical enough, and his frustrations boiled over in a scrum towards the end of the match. Djibril Diani - 5/10 One question for Diani was how he would respond after giving up the penalty against Orlando in the playoffs last season. He had a bad turnover setting up a NYCFC counter, and Perea hit the crossbar in the 31st minute. His possession and passing throughout the match failed to make the needed impact. Brandt Bronico - 5/10 Bronico's running was able to win Charlotte a dangerous free kick from just outside the box in the second half, but besides that and a couple of won corners, Bronico wasn't able to trigger enough turnovers in dangerous areas to make a significant impact. He was subbed off in the 78th minute for Archie Goodwin as Dean Smith needed to add more attackers to make a final push towards an equalizer. Liel Abada - 3/10 Struggled to connect the whole first half and turned the ball over needlessly. He continued to fail to make an impact throughout his shift in the second half. He was the first player subbed off in the 65th minute. The question was whether the club record transfer could step up after losing his starting role, and his performance tonight failed to provide any confidence that he could. Idan Toklomati - 5/10 Toklomati needed to answer the question of how he leads the line without Zaha? Can he create his own chances? The Israeli striker was able to beat Haak 1v1 in the 17th minute and dished it to Bronico for a shot, but apart from that, he struggled to make a significant impact for a large portion of the game. He drew a yellow card from Haak in the 71st minute, but wasn't able to apply enough pressure with three of four NYCFC defenders on yellow cards. Kerwin Vargas - 6/10 He showed small glimpses in the first half, had a deflected shot early in the second half and brought some enthusiasm and determination to get the crowd back into the game, and created moments in the second half. Even if there were a few bright spots from the Colombian winger, it was not enough to make the impact needed. Tyger Smalls - 5/10 Smalls subbed in for Abada in the 65th minute, but struggled to make an impact as the Crown searched for an equalizer. Archie Goodwin - 5/10 Goodwin subbed in for Bronico in the 78th minute. He had one late look but wasn't able to make the chance count. Brandon Cambridge - N/A Cambridge subbed in for Vargas in the 86th minute.