MLS Rivalry Week is here so you know what that means – a match against Atlanta United. Charlotte FC wrap up their regular season series against Atlanta as the visiting side this week with the goal of rectifying their previous 3-0 loss against them earlier in the season.
Here are the three ingredients of the match against the Five Stripes:
Keep it Gritty
Before Charlotte beat NYCFC this past weekend, Head Coach Christian Lattanzio asked one thing from his team – grit. The player’s answered the coach’s call and put in a performance that exuded grit and urgency.
The team has shown they are capable of competing against some of best sides in MLS but it’s continuing to play at that same level week in and week out where the team has struggled. The key is to continue to approach every match with the same urgency and willingness to win, especially during MLS Rivalry Week.
Don’t Make it Easy
A lot of Atlanta’s woes in recent times have come from their attacking performances. They’ve lacked the cohesion and dynamism that made them one of the scariest attacks in MLS at the start of the season. With that said, they still have a roster that can punish teams in transition if you give them the opportunity.
This is how Charlotte were sliced apart in their 3-0 loss against Atlanta earlier this year. Their defensive shape was loose, creating open lanes for Atlanta to easily play through when they won the ball back. Remaining compact and not making it easy for a recently lethargic Atlanta attack to bypass you is key on Saturday.
Play Off Westwood
Midfielder Ashley Westwood brings a different complexion to Charlotte side. His vision, passing range, and leadership elevates the players around him, bringing the best out of the team. It was that passing ability that helped set up the first goal against NYCFC.
Whenever he receives the ball, his teammates spread out, and make runs in behind because they know Westwood will find them. That threat in behind adds dynamism to a Charlotte attack that is starting click. Continuing to play off of Westwood, utilizing his strengths to stretch teams, is only going to generate more scoring opportunities for the Crown.
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