Charlotte FC is set to host New York City FC in the first round of the MLS playoffs, marking the team's inaugural playoff appearance [4]. The match is scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, at 6:45 p.m. ET at Bank of America Stadium [3, 4, 7]. Charlotte finished the regular season fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 19-13-2 record, securing home-field advantage in the best-of-three series [17, 19]. New York City FC finished fifth in the Eastern Conference with a 17-12-5 record [17].
Key Players and Strategies
Charlotte FC will be without star player Wilfried Zaha for Game 1 [10]. However, the team expresses confidence, particularly captain Ashley Westwood, in defending their home-field advantage [2]. Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina, the 2024 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, is expected to play a crucial role in Charlotte's defense, bringing his experience to the backfield [5]. Kahlina recorded 12 clean sheets during the regular season [5]. Idan Toklomati, the 21-year-old striker, has emphasized the importance of scoring goals and providing assists [11, 12, 13, 14]. Coach Dean Smith indicated the team has "a point to prove" [1]. Tim Ream will lead the defense [5].
Home Advantage and Game Details
Charlotte FC has a strong home record against New York City FC, winning all four regular-season home games against them [9, 11]. Overall, Charlotte is 5-2-1 against NYCFC but a perfect 4-0 at Bank of America Stadium [11]. The game will be broadcast on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, FS1, and FOX Deportes [1, 3, 16]. Fans attending the game will receive a limited-edition Crowns Up Queen City Rally Towel presented by Atrium Health [15]. The weather forecast for the game is chilly, with a chance of rain and temperatures around 50F/10C [7]. Charlotte FC won their final regular season match against the Philadelphia Union 2-0 [6].
TL;DR
- Charlotte FC hosts New York City FC in their first-ever MLS playoff game at Bank of America Stadium on Tuesday [4, 7].
- Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina and the defense will be key for Charlotte, who are without Wilfried Zaha [5, 10].
- Charlotte has a perfect 4-0 home record against NYCFC, boosting their confidence for the series opener [11].
- The game will be broadcast on MLS Season Pass, FS1, and FOX Deportes, with a 6:45 p.m. ET kickoff [1, 3].