South Charlotte Today

The two most significant results of last weekend were achieved by Charlotte FC, with a 3-1 win at FC Cincinnati, and the Columbus Crew, who secured a 5-1 victory against LAFC. These two teams are set to face each other just four days later in Columbus. The Crew aims to continue their ascent up the table in their Supporter’s Shield chase, while Charlotte FC seeks to establish themselves as a top-four contender.

Here are the details for Wednesday’s match:

**Match:** Charlotte FC at Columbus Crew

**When:** Wednesday, July 17

**Where:** Lower.com Field, Columbus, OH

**Kickoff:** 7:30 p.m. ET

**Watch:** MLS Season Pass on Apple TV – How to Watch & Listen

**Listen:** WFNZ 92.7 FM (English) & WOLS 106.1 FM (Spanish)

Charlotte FC fans may have previously viewed this period of the schedule with trepidation due to facing top Eastern Conference sides Inter Miami, FC Cincinnati, and the Columbus Crew. However, under Head Coach Dean Smith and Club Captain Ashley Westwood's leadership, the team has become a legitimate top-four contender.

Despite a recent 2-1 home loss to Miami—a match Smith described as one of their better performances—the team remains confident. This belief was reinforced by their subsequent 3-1 victory over league-leading FC Cincinnati, driven by three assists from Westwood.

This upcoming match against defending MLS Cup Champions Columbus Crew will be another significant test for Smith’s squad. The Crew recently defeated Western Conference leaders LAFC 5-1 and are currently closing the points gap between themselves and Miami/Cincinnati.

Head Coach Wilfried Nancy has revitalized the Crew after a challenging Concacaf Champions Cup run earlier in the year. Their front three forwards interchange positions frequently, supported by midfielder Darlington Nagbe and an athletically gifted backline.

Charlotte is expected to rely on defensive organization before counter-attacking opportunities arise. They aim to prove they belong in the league's upper echelon following their earlier season victory over Columbus (2-0) at Bank of America Stadium.

Charlotte began their season with a gritty home win over New York City FC but faced challenges during an early road trip that yielded only one point. Subsequent matches saw mixed results until May reignited their form with several wins and draws.

Currently positioned fourth in standings after key victories—including overcoming league leaders FC Cincinnati—Charlotte hopes to extend their momentum into another challenging encounter against Columbus.