Charlotte FC host Atlanta United at the Bank of America Stadium in a matchday 27 MLS fixture this weekend, with Charlotte sitting sixth in the Eastern Conference and aiming to secure a win to boost their playoff chances.
Atlanta, currently ninth and struggling with inconsistency, need a victory to revive their faltering playoff hopes, so this match is critical for both teams as they vie for important points in the Eastern Conference.
Match preview
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Charlotte FC are enjoying a standout season, currently sitting just five points shy of their highest-ever points total of 43, which they achieved last season to secure the final playoff spot.
This impressive tally underscored a significant milestone for the club, highlighting their ability to compete at a high level and mark a period of growth and achievement since their league debut in 2022.
This season, the hosts are on course to achieve their first back-to-back playoff appearances, a testament to their continued progress and improvement. Their solid performance under the leadership of Dean Smith, who took charge in December 2023, has been a major factor in their impressive campaign.
Under Smith's guidance, the club have demonstrated notable growth, particularly in their defensive capabilities. Last season, the team conceded an average of 1.5 goals per match, but this figure has been reduced to approximately one goal per match this season.
As the season progresses, maintaining their defensive strength while enhancing attacking returns will be key for Charlotte. With only 31 goals scored so far, improving their goalscoring rate will aid the accomplishment of their playoff aspirations.
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In stark contrast, Atlanta United's season has not gone as expected, especially compared to their performances last year when they finished sixth in the Eastern Conference with 51 points, scoring an impressive 66 goals.
This season has seen them languishing in ninth place with only 28 points and a mere 35 goals scored, with just eight games remaining. The dramatic decline in their attacking output and overall performance has left them on the fringes of the playoff race, fighting to secure back-to-back post-season appearances.
A significant factor contributing to Atlanta's struggles has been their poor form away from home - they have lost their last four away matches in the league, a worrying trend that has severely hampered their playoff aspirations.
The last time Atlanta managed to secure any points on the road was five matches ago when they drew against St Louis City, and that dismal away record illustrates the difficulties they face when travelling, making their upcoming clash with Charlotte FC all the more critical.
As they head into this match, the visitors will be acutely aware of the need to reverse their fortunes on the road if they hope to re-ignite their playoff hopes. The challenge is formidable, especially against a Charlotte side that boasts one of the most robust defences in the league.
Interim manager Rob Valentino will need to find solutions quickly to address his team's away woes and inspire his players to seize crucial points in what promises to be a difficult encounter.
Atlanta have found it challenging to get the better of Charlotte in their head-to-head meetings as Charlotte have won three of the five encounters between the two teams, while Atlanta have emerged victorious in the other two.
Team News
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Charlotte FC will benefit from the return of Andrew Privett, who is back from suspension after serving a ban for accumulated yellow cards. His return will strengthen the squad and provide additional options in the midfield.
Junior Urso, who recently returned to fitness and made a substitute appearance in their last match, is expected to be available for selection.
On the other hand, Atlanta United will be without Ronald Hernandez, who is sidelined due to a knee injury. Hernandez's absence is a significant blow to their defensive options, potentially exacerbating their struggles at the back.
Additionally, Quentin Westberg remains out with a head injury, leaving the visitors with limited options in goal and further compounding their current difficulties.
Charlotte FC possible starting lineup:
Kahlina; Byrne, Malanda, Privett, Uronen; Bronico, Urso, Diani; Abada, Agyemang, Vargas
Atlanta United possible starting lineup:
Guzan; Lennon, Edwards, Williams, Hernandez; Firmino, Fortune, Slisz; Miranchuk, Thiare, Wolff
We say: Charlotte FC 2-0 Atlanta United
Charlotte's strong home form and defensive solidity should see them secure a comfortable victory, further solidifying their playoff position while leaving Atlanta's hopes hanging by a thread.
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