North Charlotte Today

Charlotte FC will conclude a series of three matches in eight days this Saturday in Philadelphia. A win over D.C. United and a draw with ten men against Orlando City have placed The Crown securely in fifth place in the Eastern Conference. Now on the road, Charlotte FC aims for a strong finish to this challenging stretch.

Match: Charlotte FC at Philadelphia Union

When: Saturday, June 22

Where: Subaru Park

Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET

Watch: Away Match Watch Party at Caswell Station; MLS Season Pass on Apple TV – How to Watch & Listen

Listen: WFNZ 92.7 FM (English) & WOLS 106.1 FM (Spanish)

This week's series of matches has highlighted Charlotte FC’s identity under Head Coach Dean Smith. A gritty 1-0 win over D.C. United followed by a determined draw while down a man for more than 50 minutes against Orlando City showcased the team's resilience.

“I think we’re humble enough to know that we have to work extremely hard to be a successful side,” said Smith during this week’s pre-match press conference. “And we’re quite happy and comfortable to go and do that.”

The team has achieved a league-leading eight clean sheets and six one-goal wins out of their eight victories, reflecting their hardworking approach.

This weekend presents another opportunity to affirm that identity. After two demanding home matches, Smith's squad must travel to Philadelphia on short rest following an extended period playing with ten men.

Some rotation might be expected from Smith, but maintaining their hardworking identity remains crucial. If the team can bring the same energy and determination to Subaru Park, they stand a good chance of earning points.

Charlotte FC recently faced the Philadelphia Union at home on May 25, making this return fixture prompt.

In contrast, 2024 has been challenging for the Union. They are currently below the playoff line in 10th place and have not secured a win at Subaru Park since late March (five losses and two draws). Additionally, injuries and international duties have weakened their lineup for Saturday’s match. Key players like Daniel Gazdag (Euros with Hungary), Jose Martinez (Copa America with Venezuela), Andre Blake (injury/Copa America with Jamaica), and Alejandro Bedoya (injury) are likely to be absent.

Despite these challenges, desperate teams can be unpredictable; however, Saturday offers Charlotte FC an excellent opportunity to gain valuable points away from home.

Charlotte FC started the season positively with a gritty 1-0 home opener win over New York City FC but had a rocky three-game road trip resulting in just one point. Returning home saw them defeat defending MLS Cup Champions Columbus Crew (2-0) and draw against defending Supporter’s Shield Champions FC Cincinnati (1-1).

April brought mixed results with highs such as winning an exciting match against Toronto thanks to Patrick Agyemang's late winner but also experiencing disappointing losses in other games.

May revitalized Charlotte's form as they secured three wins, two draws, and one loss throughout the month. Even an away loss to the Red Bulls didn’t diminish their confidence as they remained strong into June.

Recent successes include an important away victory over rivals Atlanta United and consecutive strong performances leading up to their current fifth-place standing.

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