Charlotte FC head north to face the New England Revolution still in search of their first win on the road this season.
Here are the three ingredients of the match:
An Attacking Boost
Through Charlotte's three-match away series, they only managed to score two goals. Had they capitalized on just one or two more opportunities, it's likely that The Crown would have secured at least a point in each of those games.
However, there's good news for Charlotte as their goal-scoring reinforcement has arrived. New winger and Designated Player Liel Abada made his Club debut against FC Cincinnati. With his first touch, he showcased his blistering pace by breezing past three opponents, demonstrating the added dynamism he brings to the team.
His potential first start against the Revolution could be pivotal in enhancing the team's attacking prowess.
“I haven’t decided not to start him. Just not sure whether he is ready, but I will have a chat and look at him tomorrow [Friday],” said Head Coach Dean Smith on whether Abada will make the first eleven.
Exploiting Fatigue
Charlotte FC is up against their second opponent this season who will be fatigued from a midweek match. The Revolution recently faced Mexican giants Club América in the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup Quarterfinals, falling to a 4-0 loss at home. The last time The Crown faced an opponent following a Champions Cup fixture was against Nashville.
Despite Nashville playing their second match in three days, Charlotte didn't fully capitalize on their advantage. MLS teams balancing multiple fixtures have historically struggled in league play, which presents an opportunity for The Crown.
The same level of fire and intensity demonstrated against FC Cincinnati needs to be replicated from the outset against New England. If one of the top teams in the league struggled against such intensity, a fatigued team is likely to find it even more challenging.
Prove it on the Road
After Charlotte FC's home victory against the Columbus Crew, Head Coach Dean Smith emphasized the need to replicate their home form on the road.
"We've got to make this a real tough place like we did today," said Smith. "The Columbus Crew are the MLS holders; they were unbeaten this season, and I think we've drawn a line in the sand about what we can do here.
"But I don't want to just do it here at this stadium. I want to do it on the road as well."
Charlotte's 12-match unbeaten streak at home is a testament to their home support, but they haven't necessarily carried the same reputation on the road. After earning four points out of a possible six against the 2023 MLS Cup Champion and the 2023 Supporter's Shield winner, the team now has an opportunity to prove their mettle away from home.
“The big thing for me is the change in mentality...,” said Smith. “I think everybody believes that it’s so hard to get points on the road but I’m not necessarily in that seat."
