Charlotte FC will face New York City FC on Tuesday in the first match of the Round One Best-of-3 series of the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs. The game will take place at Bank of America Stadium, where Charlotte FC has secured a top-four seed and home-field advantage.
This season, Charlotte FC achieved 13 home wins, making their stadium one of the most challenging venues for visiting teams in Major League Soccer. In their previous playoff appearance at home, Charlotte won a penalty shootout against Orlando City SC with a score of 3-1.
For this match, attackers Pep Biel and Wilfried Zaha are unavailable. As a result, Kerwin Vargas, Brandt Bronico, and Idan Toklomati are expected to lead the offensive efforts. Vargas has contributed nine goals or assists this season from the right wing. Midfielder Brandt Bronico is recognized for his persistent play and pressure on opponents. Idan Toklomati, who has scored 11 goals and provided four assists—most since becoming the starting striker—is seen as a key player for this fixture.
Defensively, Charlotte FC relies on Kristijan Kahlina, last season’s MLS Goalkeeper of the Year. Kahlina led all goalkeepers with 129 saves and matched his previous year’s clean sheet total with 12 shutouts. The team has won 11 out of its last 13 matches—including six shutouts in their last nine games—and tied the league record for longest win streak during this period.
The club’s recent form positions them as one of the strongest teams entering the postseason.
“The Fortress is expected to be packed Tuesday night, rally towels waving throughout the bowl, and when the Poznan begins, The Crown and their supporters will be ready to strike fear into the Pigeons.”
“With Pep Biel and Wilfried Zaha ruled out for this match, the attacking load will fall on Kerwin Vargas, Brandt Bronico, and Idan Toklomati.”
“Vargas is having a breakout season with nine goal contributions, driving the offense from the right wing.”
“Midfielder Brandt Bronico’s relentless pressure and ‘grindset’ mentality make him a constant nuisance for opposing defenses.”
“But Toklomati may be the true difference-maker. With 11 goals and four assists, most coming since he took over the starting striker position, the No. 3 player on the 22 Under 22 list will be expected to float in the box, ready to finish any chance that comes his way.”
“The phrase ‘defense wins championships’ has never rung truer for this backline, anchored by reigning MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, Kristijan Kahlina.”
“The Croatian Wall led all of MLS this season with 129 saves and matched his clean sheet total from last year with 12.”
“Charlotte FC have won 11 of their last 13 matches, including six shutouts in the last nine, and tied the league record for the longest win streak in MLS history during this run.”
“No team is hotter heading into the postseason than The Crown, and it all starts at the back.”
