Charlotte FC hosts the 2022 MLS Cup champions in their return to MLS play at Bank of America Stadium.
Here are the three ingredients of the match:
Mini-Season Approach
Charlotte finds themselves in a familiar situation to last season as the campaign enters its final phase. They are a team still in contention for the playoffs, but in order to secure their spot, they must string together a series of positive results. As the inaugural season came to a close, Charlotte had only five matches remaining, and they needed to win all five matches to give them a chance at qualifying for the playoffs.
Head Coach Christian Lattanzio adopted the term "mini-season" to approach this crucial set of matches. The objective was to guide his team's focus towards the upcoming games rather than dwelling on past outcomes. Despite falling just short of the playoffs last season, this five-match period was the team’s most successful stretch of the entire season.
In the current season, Charlotte is presented with the advantage of having 11 matches still ahead of them. However, the same "mini-season" mentality must be applied if they intend to maintain control over their playoff destiny. The emphasis should be on looking forward, using the MLS reset following Leagues Cup to enter the remainder of the season with renewed vigor and focus.
The Best Defense is a Strong Offense
As The Crown approaches the latter part of the season, a key priority is shoring up the defense. Charlotte has conceded the highest number of goals in MLS this season, making it imperative to make improvements in this area to stand a chance at reaching the playoffs. While the team has taken steps to address this issue by signing midfielders Scott Arfield, Brecht Dejaegere, and left back Jere Uronen, defensive stability ultimately hinges on the overall team structure and discipline.
Undoubtedly, an attacking style of play carries inherent risks, but the objective is to minimize these risks. This can be achieved through consistent communication and discipline. Another method? Keeping a hold of the ball. Charlotte has been prone to relinquishing possession due to errant passes or poor decision-making this season, which has left them vulnerable defensively. The cliché "the best defense is a good offense" holds particular relevance, especially for a team like Charlotte whose playing philosophy revolves around ball possession.
Capitalize on Circumstance
Charlotte starts the next phase of their MLS season with a bang against the 2022 MLS Cup champions at the Bank of America Stadium, with an open upper bowl open to the crowd. This presents a tremendous opportunity to carry the momentum from the Leagues Cup and make a strong statement as they enter the final stretch of the season.
Not only will The Crown enjoy the advantage of playing before a sizable home crowd, infused with newfound confidence, but they will also have the benefit of better rest compared to their opponents. LAFC had a midweek match in the challenging high-altitude conditions of Colorado, along with extensive travel during the week. While the upcoming match will undoubtedly be challenging, Charlotte has the chance to capitalize on these favorable circumstances.
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