D.C. United vs Charlotte Prediction and Lineups: Based on recent form and home advantage, D.C. United is predicted to secure a narrow 2-1 victory over Charlotte FC in their crucial final regular season match at Audi Field.
Key Takeaways
- DC United and Charlotte FC face off in a crucial final regular season match.
- DC United needs at least a draw to secure a playoff spot.
- Charlotte FC has already clinched a playoff berth.
- DC United’s Cristian Benteke leads the Golden Boot race with 23 goals.
- The match kicks off at 11pm UK time on Saturday, October 19 at Audi Field.
Match Preview: DC United vs Charlotte FC
In a high-stakes finale to the Major League Soccer regular season, DC United hosts Charlotte FC at Audi Field on Saturday, October 19. The Black-and-Red find themselves in a must-not-lose situation as they aim to secure their place in the postseason.
Playoff Implications
DC United currently sits in eighth place in the Eastern Conference with 40 points, level with ninth-placed CF Montreal. A draw would be sufficient for DC to clinch a spot in the two-legged play-in clash, while a win could potentially move them up to seventh, depending on other results.
Charlotte FC, on the other hand, has already booked their ticket to the playoffs. The Crown occupies the sixth position with 48 points and will be looking to maintain their momentum heading into the postseason.
Recent Form
DC United enters this match on the back of two consecutive victories, including a crucial 2-1 win against New England Revolution in their last outing. Troy Lesesne’s side has shown resilience, going unbeaten in six of their last seven matches.
Charlotte FC has also been in fine form, undefeated in their last four games. Their most recent result was a convincing 2-0 victory over Montreal, showcasing their defensive solidity and attacking prowess.
Key Players to Watch
DC United
- Cristian Benteke: The Belgian striker has been in scintillating form, leading the Golden Boot race with 23 goals. His performance will be crucial for DC’s playoff aspirations.
- Gabriel Pirani: The midfielder has shown his ability to influence games, notably scoring a brace in the comeback win against Nashville.
Charlotte FC
- Karol Swiderski: The Polish international has been on fire, scoring four goals in Charlotte’s last three matches.
- Patrick Agyemang: The young forward has been making an impact, scoring in their recent victory over Montreal.
Injury Updates
DC United will be without defender Matai Akinmboni and midfielder Jackson Hopkins, both sidelined with ankle injuries. Christopher McVey returns from suspension and is available for selection.
Charlotte FC will miss forward Iuri Tavares due to suspension after accumulating too many yellow cards. Jahlane Forbes and Nikola Petkovic remain unavailable due to hip and knee injuries respectively.
Predicted D.C. United vs Charlotte Lineups
- DC United Lineup (4-2-3-1): Bono; Stroud, Herrera, Bartlett, Peltola; Klich, Rodriguez; Ku-DiPietro, Pirani, Santos; Benteke.
- Charlotte FC Lineup (4-3-3): Kahlina; Byrne, Malanda, Privett, Ream; Bronico, Westwood, Urso; Biel, Swiderski, Abada.
Head-to-Head
The teams have met five times in MLS, with Charlotte FC holding a slight edge. Their most recent encounter in June 2024 saw Charlotte secure a 1-0 victory at home.
Where to Watch Live?
The match will be broadcast live on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, kicking off at 11pm UK time.
Prediction
Given the high stakes for DC United and their strong home form, this match promises to be a tightly contested affair. DC’s need for a result coupled with Charlotte’s secured playoff position might give the home side an edge.
Prediction: DC United 2-1 Charlotte FC
This crucial encounter sets the stage for an exciting end to the MLS regular season, with playoff implications adding extra spice to an already intriguing matchup.
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