Charlotte FC Faces Columbus Crew After Tough Stretch

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte FC will host Columbus Crew this Saturday, May 24, at Bank of America Stadium. The match is crucial for Charlotte, which is coming off a difficult period, having lost four consecutive matches in various competitions, including a penalty shootout loss in the U.S. Open Cup.

The kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the action on the MLS Season Pass via Apple TV or listen on WFNZ 92.7 FM for English coverage and WOLS 106.1 FM for Spanish.

This marks the second meeting between the two teams this season, with Columbus previously defeating Charlotte 4-2 on May 3. The loss has Charlotte sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference standings with 19 points after 14 games.

Despite the team’s struggles, Charlotte has shown flashes of promise on the attack. During their last outing, a round of 16 U.S. Open Cup match against D.C. United, forward Patrick Agyemang scored a goal, his second in consecutive matches, and new signing Iuri Tavares provided two assists.

Charlotte will need to break a pattern of conceding goals, as they have allowed 14 goals in their last five matches. Head coach Dean Smith acknowledged the team is working on improving its defensive strategies after facing a barrage of shots from opponents.

Columbus Crew currently sits third in the Eastern Conference and boasts a strong possession game, leading MLS in possession percentage and pass completion rates. They are coming into this match on the back of three consecutive draws.

Charlotte aims to exploit gaps in Columbus’ high defensive line, a tactic that has worked in previous encounters. However, leveraging their offensive capabilities will be key to reversing their current trend and securing a much-needed win at home this Saturday.

As the crowd gathers at Bank of America Stadium, both teams understand the weight of this match. With Charlotte looking for redemption, it promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams vie for vital points in the league standings.