Charlotte FC is set to play Austin FC at Bank of America Stadium on Saturday, March 7, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. The match marks the beginning of a five-game homestand after Charlotte’s recent away fixtures against St. Louis and LA Galaxy.
Charlotte Football Club competes in Major League Soccer as part of the Eastern Conference and is based in Charlotte, North Carolina, according to its official website. The club began competing in MLS as an expansion franchise with its first season in 2022.
Last season, Charlotte FC recorded the most home wins in MLS with 13 and matched Philadelphia Union for the highest points earned at home. The team also conceded the third fewest goals at their home venue. “The Club has built a reputation around the league that Bank of America is a hard place to play, and results for away teams are rare; if teams do walk out with any points, they weren’t easily claimed,” reads a statement from the club.
The team started last year’s home campaign with a 2-0 win over Atlanta United. The club emphasized the importance of support from fans: “The lads feed off the energy supporters bring every night, so it’s time to show up and show out and create an unbeatable atmosphere.”
Austin FC enters this match following a draw against Minnesota and a win over D.C. United. In their first two matches, Austin ranks tied for fourth in shots on target across MLS. Kristijan Kahlina leads the league in saves for Charlotte FC, while Austin has added new players Facundo Torres and Jayden Nelson to strengthen its attack.
Commenting on early season performance, Charlotte’s head coach said: “Too often in the opening two matches did The Crown lose its positioning and shape, where the team had too many numbers up high and a mistimed pass or unexpected turnover opened up a dangerous counter. Or if players were in a good spot positionally, they weren’t pressuring the opposing side enough and giving space for attacking players to make moves.” He added that Saturday provides an opportunity for his squad to regroup: “Saturday presents itself as a much-needed home contest and the perfect place for the squad to reload, regroup and regain its identity.”
