This weekend, Charlotte FC embarks on an important away match against Atlanta United at the bustling Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
In a season filled with challenges, Ronnie Deila’s Atlanta United is in a precarious position in the Eastern Conference standings, fighting to avoid their worst finish since entering Major League Soccer.
After a promising campaign that reached the League Cup semi-finals last year, Atlanta now faces the prospect of missing the tournament this time around, currently sitting 13th with a disappointing 20 points from 22 matches, 12 points adrift of Charlotte, who currently occupy the final wild-card spot.
With the clock ticking, the pressure on Atlanta United is intensifying as they strive to revive their season.
On the other hand, Dean Smith’s Charlotte FC seems to be rediscovering their form after a rough patch earlier in the season.
Having started with six wins in their first nine games, Charlotte stumbled through a dismal stretch where they only managed two wins in 12 matches, accompanied by one draw and nine losses.
However, signs of resurgence are evident, as the team has secured back-to-back victories against New York City FC (2-0) and DC United (2-1).
These recent wins have not only boosted their morale but have also kept their hopes alive for a League Cup berth.
Charlotte currently stands ninth in the Eastern Conference, boasting 32 points from 23 games, merely two points shy of a guaranteed League Cup spot.
Despite their improving form, Charlotte still struggles with an inconsistent away record, an issue they must rectify swiftly to maintain their upward trajectory in the standings.
For viewers interested in watching the match, the contest will be broadcast live in the United States on Apple TV, available through the MLS Season Pass.
For those outside the U.S., utilizing a virtual private network (VPN) like NordVPN can help access your regular streaming services for the match.
Kick-off for this crucial matchup is set for 7:30 PM PT / 4:30 PM ET on Saturday, July 19, in Atlanta.
Team news ahead of the match shows Atlanta United are listless with injuries as they prepare to take on Charlotte FC.
Key players such as Derrick Williams (foot) and Stian Gregersen (hip) remain unavailable, while midfielder Ajani Fortune also continues to be sidelined after five consecutive matches missed due to injury.
With goalkeeper Josh Cohen still nursing an arm injury, veteran Brad Guzan is anticipated to resume his duties in goal.
Emmanuel Latte Lath, Atlanta United’s leading scorer with six goals this season, will be under the spotlight again, eager to find the net after a barren spell in their last match.
Meanwhile, Charlotte FC is not without their injury woes.
Right-back Nathan Byrne has been sidelined since April due to a neck injury, and Souleyman Doumbia may miss his fourth straight game because of a stubborn hamstring issue.
On a positive note, Pep Biel has been hitting impressive strides, contributing to seven goals in his last four games, highlighted by a standout performance against D.C. United where he netted twice.
Biel is expected to be a crucial asset for Charlotte in their quest for victory as they prepare to face their rivals in Atlanta.
As both teams gear up for this encounter, it is clear that the stakes are high, particularly for Atlanta United as they seek to turn their fortunes around in front of their home fans.
Charlotte FC, buoyed by recent victories, will aim to capitalize on Atlanta’s struggles, making this matchup one to watch closely in the ongoing battle for playoff positions in Major League Soccer.
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