South Charlotte Today

Charlotte FC is aiming for a rebound performance this weekend against league-leading FC Cincinnati. Following two narrow one-goal losses, securing a result on the road would be crucial for maintaining their position in the top six of the Eastern Conference standings.

The match between Charlotte FC and FC Cincinnati is scheduled for Saturday, July 13 at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, OH. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET and will be available to watch on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. Radio coverage includes WFNZ 92.7 FM (English) and WOLS 106.1 FM (Spanish).

In their previous home match, Charlotte FC striker Patrick Agyemang was sent off with a straight red card in the final moments. As a result, he will serve a one-match suspension, leaving Head Coach Dean Smith with the task of finding a replacement. Agyemang has been pivotal since Enzo Copetti's departure, contributing six goals and three assists in 21 matches.

At Thursday’s pre-match press conference, Smith mentioned Iuri Tavares and Tyger Smalls as potential replacements but noted that Kerwin Vargas would likely remain on the wing due to his recent form.

Smith highlighted that Charlotte will need to adapt without Agyemang's unique blend of strength and speed. "Tavares would focus more on link-up play," said Smith, referencing his recent assist against Inter Miami, while "Smalls could stretch the field vertically with his pace."

FC Cincinnati enters the match as defending Supporter’s Shield Champions after earning 69 points last season. Despite losing key players Brandon Vazquez and Alvaro Barreal during the offseason, they have remained strong with new additions such as Luca Orellano and Kevin Kelsy.

Luciano Acosta continues to be a key player for Cincinnati with 27 goal contributions this season. “You have to be very aware of him,” stated Smith during his press conference. “He's at 27 goal involvements already this season... we know we have to play exactly the same again to keep him quiet.”

Cincinnati’s defense has also been formidable despite injuries to starting center backs Matt Miazga and Nick Hagglund.

Charlotte FC began their season with a narrow win over New York City FC but faced challenges during an early three-game road trip. They regained form with significant victories over Columbus Crew and Atlanta United among others but have experienced mixed results throughout April.

After recent tight losses against Houston and Miami, Charlotte FC looks forward to testing themselves against the Supporter’s Shield leaders this weekend.