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Union Take Aim at Stingy Charlotte Defense
Match Preview: Charlotte FC vs. Philadelphia Union
Charlotte FC will look to build on their defensive momentum when they host the high-scoring Philadelphia Union on Saturday night.
Current Form and Standings
Charlotte FC (6-5-3, 21 focuses) has conveyed three back to back clean sheets, going 2-0-1 during that stretch. The group’s cautious upgrades are obvious, as they have yielded only 13 objectives this season, tied for the second least in MLS.
“My protection played incredibly, well at a significant level,” Charlotte goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina said. ” It’s a lot simpler for me this season than if I would contrast with the last two seasons.”
Philadelphia Association (4-4-5, 17 focuses) have serious areas of strength for been the street, stretching out their unbeaten streak to seven coordinates with a 3-0 triumph at New Britain last end of the week. The Association are tied for second in the association in objectives scored, showing their hostile ability.
“This game has a way of rewarding hard work and consistency,” Union coach Jim Curtin said.
Key Players and Performances
Charlotte’s recent defensive success has been a team effort, with Kahlina praising the backline’s high level of play. The club’s emphasis on a strong defensive foundation has paid off, leading to three consecutive clean sheets.
Philadelphia’s offense is powered by the dynamic duo of Daniel Gazdag and Julian Carranza. The pair has scored in the same match 16 times in their careers, including in the recent win over New England. This statistic is unmatched in MLS history for regular season games.
Strategic Insights
With Charlotte’s defense becoming more connected, there could be an emphasis on cultivating more scoring chances at the other end. The team is coming off a 0-0 draw with the LA Galaxy, highlighting the need to be more dangerous when playing at home.
“We need to be more dangerous when we play at home,” Kahlina said. “We need to create more.”
On Thursday, defender Andrew Privett signed a new contract with Charlotte, taking him through 2028. Converted from a midfielder to center back late last season, Privett has played a full match in 29 consecutive games, showcasing his adaptability and importance to the team’s defensive setup.
Philadelphia’s defense was also solidified this week with goalkeeper Andre Blake signing a contract extension through 2026. However, Curtin mentioned that it’s unlikely Blake will be back from an injury in time to play in Charlotte.
Match Insights
- Charlotte has conceded just 13 goals this season, tied for the second fewest in MLS.
- Philadelphia’s Gazdag and Carranza have scored in the same match 16 times, a record in MLS history for regular season games.
- Philadelphia is unbeaten in their last seven road matches, showcasing their ability to perform well away from home.
Conclusion
Saturday’s matchup will feature Charlotte FC’s improving defense against Philadelphia Union’s potent offense. Charlotte will aim to maintain their defensive solidity while increasing their attacking threat at home. Meanwhile, Philadelphia will look to continue their strong road form and capitalize on their offensive firepower. The outcome will hinge on whether Charlotte can stifle the Union’s attacking duo and find ways to create and convert their own scoring opportunities.
