Charlotte FC Seeks Victory Against NYCFC to Break Winless Streak
Charlotte FC aims to end their four-match MLS winless streak when they host New York City FC on Wednesday.
The two clubs each have 15 points and 4-5-3 records, with NYCFC ahead in the standings on the goal-differential tiebreaker. Charlotte FC holds a head-to-head advantage after a 2-1 victory in New York on April 18.
Since their last encounter with NYCFC, Charlotte FC have gone 0-3-1 in four regular-season matches. After suffering three road losses, the Crown managed to secure a point in their return to their home field with a 2-2 draw against FC Cincinnati on Saturday.
New York City FC broke a seven-match winless drought with a 3-0 home win over the Columbus Crew on Sunday. Hannes Wolf scored all three goals, marking his first professional hat trick.
However, Wolf noted that he was more impressed by NYCFC’s shutout rather than his attacking success. He mentioned to the New York Soccer Journal that the team concentrated on defending crosses leading up to the Columbus match, aiming to return to “the mentality to defend as a team” that was evident last season.
“This team didn’t get worse overnight,” Wolf said. “It was just a bad moment, and we want to be ourselves now in the future.”
NYCFC currently holds a record of 1-2-1 in away matches this season and is set for three consecutive road games before the MLS takes a break for the World Cup.
Wednesday’s match marks the second of four straight home games for Charlotte FC before the upcoming break, where they boast a 3-1-2 record at home.
Ashley Westwood will be absent from Charlotte’s lineup due to a one-match suspension for caution accumulation. Coach Dean Smith acknowledged the loss of Westwood’s leadership and experience, stating that other players will need to step up in his absence. “We’ve got lads who are waiting in the wings who are ready to play,” he said.
Aidan O’Neill (ankle) and Andres Peres (leg) are both doubtful for Wednesday after missing NYCFC’s last match.
Nicolas Fernandez leads New York City FC in goals with eight and assisted Wolf’s goals during Sunday’s match. On the other hand, Pep Biel leads Charlotte FC with six goals and ten total goal contributions.