We are here—Battle of the South, Atlanta edition.
Charlotte is on a three-match unbeaten run with back-to-back wins. Atlanta is also on a three-match unbeaten run with three straight draws. Perfect recipe for a match on Saturday.
Momentum is always key. Charlotte has more of it right now, which could prove vital. Momentum from two home wins and momentum from the last two matches in Atlanta—two wins in a row in Hotlanta.
But as always, everything changes in rivalry matches. Anyone can win on any day, which makes it critical for Charlotte to bring the right mindset. With another 2,000 fans making the trip to ATL, it should be no problem.
Here are the Ingredients of the Match for Charlotte FC to make it three straight wins in Atlanta:
You can almost hear the Europe song start to play in your head. The majestic 80s synth music is beginning. We are in the back half of the season. 23 of the 34 are complete, and none may be more critical than Saturday.
The ‘final third’ is crucial for Charlotte FC in all its metaphorical glory. Not just the last third of the season, but Charlotte FC’s attack will start to take a new shape with Patrick Agyemang’s departure, and so far, results have been strong. Idan Toklomati at position 9 forced Charlotte to bring a different approach to the final third, which forced more possession and fluidity in the game. His movement around defense forces defenses to do more tracking and moving. Something that benefits Pep Biel and Wilfried Zaha who were both playing some beautiful soccer against D.C. Zaha set up both goals just from his skill and IQ on ball.
If Charlotte can continue growing relationships between those three, final third of season could be stark contrast to middle third.
Two straight wins are nice but three straight including road win over rival feeds families. Charlotte can have all momentum heading into season’s final third before Leagues Cup before transfer window before key players return from injury.
Are you hearing music now too? It’s Final Countdown.
“They can take their party hats off.”
Dean Smith knows what’s up—that was post-match press conference from last match where Dean started noticing what this rivalry means club fans bought immediately.
An anticipated 2k fans once again expected make way Hotlanta same as last year—that type traveling support makes Battle South special atmosphere unmatched players feel every bit fueled them two victories away home—and let’s not forget how first match ended—a Wilfried Zaha debut goal seal points.
So CROWNS UP bring own party hats help boys push season sweep.
