Sports
Charlotte FC Hosts Nashville SC in Crucial Eastern Conference Match

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte FC will host regional rivals Nashville SC this Saturday, April 5, at 2:30 p.m. ET at Bank of America Stadium. The match is pivotal for both teams, as each sits with identical season records and goal differentials in a tightly contested Eastern Conference.
This clash will be crucial for positioning in the conference standings, as Charlotte FC aims to extend its undefeated home record and establish dominance at The Fortress. Both teams enter the match needing a win to enhance their playoff prospects and showcase their resolve.
The pre-match festivities will commence early, with gates opening at 1 p.m. Fans arriving first will receive a Foam Goalie Glove Giveaway presented by Bojangles. Additionally, attendees can join a pre-match party from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. between the North Gate and the Blue Cross NC East Gate, featuring free samples of Bojangles Strawberry Cobbler and opportunities for giveaways from partners like Carolina Ford Dealers and Great Clips.
Charlotte FC Head Coach Dean Smith noted the significance of the match, stating, “We’re going to have many strings to our bow. We need to have many different ways to play against opposition.” With the team’s strong defensive record at home, including five clean sheets in their last seven matches, Charlotte aims to solidify its reputation as a tough opponent in their home stadium.
Nashville SC, meanwhile, is known for its potent attacking lineup, which has seen 12 different players contributing to goal-scoring this season. Hany Mukhtar, who leads Nashville with three goal contributions, poses a major threat, given his ability to exploit spaces in the opposition’s defense.
“Containing Nashville’s attack will prove quite difficult,” Smith said. “Charlotte will need to be extremely disciplined across the entire field if they want to come out on top.” The Crown’s goalkeeper, Kristijan Kahlina, who currently ranks second in the league for saves, will be tasked with thwarting Nashville’s offensive efforts.
The match will feature robust tactical battles, with Charlotte FC’s depth in their lineup allowing for flexibility in position play, something Smith emphasized as critical against Nashville’s 4-2-4 formation.
In-game, the atmosphere will be vibrant, with dynamic fan support playing a critical role. The history of strong crowds at Bank of America Stadium is a significant advantage for Charlotte FC as they prepare for this match.
Additional match details include broadcast on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV, with radio coverage in English on WFNZ 92.7 FM and in Spanish on WOLS 106.1 FM.
As the excitement builds, the first fans in attendance will be greeted by memorable giveaways and a spirited environment aimed at helping Charlotte FC achieve a significant victory. In their pursuit of a perfect home record and continued success in the league, Charlotte FC is ready to defend The Fortress against Nashville SC this Saturday afternoon.