Battle of the Expansion Teams: Charlotte FC Takes on Inter Miami CF

Charlotte FC on the Verge of MLS Playoffs

Overview

Charlotte FC is currently enjoying a good run of form in the 2023 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, with a playoff berth within reach. The team has secured back-to-back victories, defeating Toronto 3-0 at home and Chicago 2-0 away. With just two matches left to play, Charlotte FC has control over their destiny in the Eastern Conference playoff race. A win in both games would secure them the eighth spot and the opportunity to host a Wild Card playoff match at Bank of America Stadium.

The upcoming match against Inter Miami CF

Charlotte FC’s next match is against Inter Miami CF on Wednesday, October 18th, at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. Kickoff is at 8:00pm ET. The game can be watched on the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV or listened to on WFNZ 92.7 FM (English) and WOLS 106.1 FM (Spanish). Charlotte FC’s victory in this match would propel them to the eighth spot in the conference standings.

Injuries and International Duty

Both Charlotte FC and Inter Miami CF have faced challenges due to injuries and international duty. Charlotte FC has seen players like Karol Swiderski, Jere Uronen, and Bill Tuiloma represent their respective national teams during the FIFA International Window, putting their availability for the upcoming match in doubt. Swiderski, who has been instrumental in the team’s recent success, is expected to be available. However, Uronen and Tuiloma’s participation remains uncertain.

On the injury front, Vinicius Mello and Ben Bender will be unavailable for Charlotte FC, and Derrick Jones will miss the match due to yellow card accumulation suspension. Inter Miami CF, on the other hand, is likely to miss Lionel Messi, who played for Argentina in a match against Peru. However, they have also welcomed back several players from the injury report, such as Jean Mota, Gregore, Leonardo Campana, Diego Gomez, and Jordi Alba.

The Matchup

Charlotte FC previously suffered a 4-0 defeat against Inter Miami CF in the Leagues Cup Quarterfinals. However, the team has undergone significant changes and gained momentum since then. Captain Ashley Westwood expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back from adversity. Charlotte FC will analyze lessons learned from their previous match against Miami and adapt to Miami’s recent tactical approach.

Charlotte FC’s Season So Far

Charlotte FC had a challenging start to their second season, with only one win, three draws, and five losses in the opening eight matches. However, the team found stability during the congested months of April and May, securing five consecutive home wins in the league and the U.S. Open Cup. Throughout the summer, wins were harder to come by, but Charlotte FC remained within reach of a playoff spot with five draws in their last six games before the Leagues Cup break.

The Leagues Cup served as a turning point for Charlotte FC, providing a reset and renewed momentum. The team advanced as group winners, winning one match via penalty shootout and another outright. Although they were eventually eliminated by Inter Miami in the quarterfinals, their performance in the tournament carried over into the MLS regular season’s last third. A crucial victory over Toronto FC and a clutch away win against Chicago have positioned them well for the remaining matches against Inter Miami.

Conclusion

Charlotte FC is on the brink of securing a playoff berth in the 2023 MLS season. With two matches against Inter Miami CF remaining, the team has the opportunity to clinch the eighth spot and host a Wild Card playoff match. Despite facing challenges such as injuries and international duty, Charlotte FC has shown resilience and dedication throughout the season. The upcoming match against Inter Miami CF will be pivotal in determining their playoff fate. Supporters can join the watch party at Bank of America Stadium or tune in to the various broadcast options to show their support for the team.