South Charlotte Today

Charlotte FC is on a positive trajectory, having remained undefeated through a three-match road stint against FC Cincinnati, Columbus Crew, and Austin FC. The team's focus now shifts to the Leagues Cup, a tournament featuring all teams from Major League Soccer (MLS) and Liga MX, Mexico’s top division. Charlotte FC will commence their group stage matches with an away game at Philadelphia Union this Saturday before hosting Cruz Azul next Wednesday.

Match: Charlotte FC at Philadelphia Union (Leagues Cup Group Stage)

When: Saturday, July 27

Where: Subaru Park, Chester, PA

Kickoff: 8:00 p.m. ET

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The second edition of the Leagues Cup begins on Friday. This unique tournament may still be unfamiliar to some fans; it includes specific rules and procedures distinct from regular league play.

Charlotte FC shares its group with Philadelphia Union and Mexican side Cruz Azul. They will start their campaign against Philadelphia on the road before returning home for their match against Cruz Azul at Bank of America Stadium.

Caleb Adams has provided an in-depth guide for those interested in understanding what this tournament means for the team.

Charlotte FC has already faced Philadelphia Union twice this season—a 0-0 draw at home and a 2-0 win on the road on June 22. Since then, Philadelphia has experienced fluctuating form but recently secured dominant wins over New England (5-1) and Nashville SC (3-0), lifting them to 10th place in the standings.

Philadelphia's recent victories come with caveats; New England sits last in the Eastern Conference while Nashville SC is positioned at 12th after dismissing long-time Head Coach Gary Smith earlier this season. Nevertheless, with key players back in action and renewed momentum, Philadelphia views this tournament as an opportunity to revitalize their season.

Charlotte FC also sees potential in using the Leagues Cup as a catalyst for success. Their quarterfinal run in last year's tournament helped bond the team and secure their first-ever playoff spot later that season.

Head Coach Dean Smith aims to maintain high standards to avoid any setbacks during this crucial phase of competition. Under his leadership, Charlotte FC currently holds sixth place in the Eastern Conference after 25 of 34 regular-season matches and is vying for a top-four spot that offers first-round home-field advantage.

Their recent road performance included notable results such as defeating Supporter’s Shield contenders FC Cincinnati 3-1, drawing defending champions Columbus Crew 1-1, and drawing Austin FC 2-2 within eight days.

As they turn their attention to the Leagues Cup, Charlotte FC hopes to capture their first-ever trophy starting with Saturday's match against Philadelphia Union.