Charlotte FC Report: Week 3, 2022

Charlotte FC

Well, last week didn’t go as planned, but Charlotte FC can walk away knowing a few things. One, there was enough interest in that matchup to break the MLS attendance record at 74,479. I never thought soccer would be popular enough in Charlotte to achieve this kind of feat, but I’m kind of glad I was wrong. Two, Charlotte FC learned that they can compete in big moments. They lost thing match after a long grueling battle with a late goal from LA Galaxy’s Efrain Álvarez in the 77th minute. They fought hard, but ultimately lost a tight game. Three, their goal keeper had an impressive showing, even though he gave up the game’s only goal. Kristijan Kahlina had his hands full on Saturday night and it was impressive that he only allowed one goal. The Croatian keeper had 21 shots his way with 6 of them on target. That kept him on high alert and Charlotte’s midfield and attack squad could’ve made it a little easier on him. 

AP/Czarek Sokolowski

I have some transfer new to share also. Last Saturday, it was reported that Charlotte FC acquired Polish winger, Kamil Jozwiak. He last played for Derby County in the EFL Championship League, who is managed by soccer legend, Wayne Rooney. Derrick Jones was also acquired within the last couple of days from the Houston Dynamo. Jones is a tall, 6’4” midfielder and has played with 3 different MLS clubs prior to coming to Charlotte. Jones was born in Ghana but has only played professionally in the United States. With all of these transfers coming in, I personally don’t know much about their history, but I think we all can feel optimistic about their entries.

Getty/Bill Barrett

Charlotte will take a trip to Atlanta on Sunday to face the Atlanta United and yet again, it will be a tough matchup for Charlotte. Atlanta United is considered a top MLS club and their fans show out. They are known for their high attendance numbers and have a good club to show off. They play their home games at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and regularly had 50,000 in attendance each fixture a before the pandemic. They were shutout 3-0 last week by the Colorado Rapids and will be looking to avenge that loss. They have a high-powered scoring attack led by Josef Martinez. He led the Eastern Conference in 2019 with 28 goals. He doesn’t have a goal scored yet this season but look for him to be a problem on Sunday.

John David Mercer/ USA Today Sports

 Charlotte lost last week, but they still have a lot left to play for. Playing in front of a record-breaking crowd has to give them a ton of eagerness to get back out there and attempt to secure a win. Hopefully that first goal comes on Sunday and it would be even better if they get that first win against a tough, Atlanta United squad. 

Yacs