Charlotte FC’s Predicted Starting XI vs Inter Miami

2 days ago

By Ryan Donahue

Photo courtesy of Cisco's Art/Topbin90

After a big win this past weekend at the Bank over Atlanta United with Wilfried Zaha opening his account, Charlotte FC now heads south to take on Inter Miami in a battle for third position in the Eastern Conference.

With rumors regarding Messi’s availability continuing to cause speculation, Charlotte fans should be excited for what could be a huge statement if Dean Smith’s side can get another result on the road.

Early reports indicate that Charlotte’s full roster is available to travel therefore Smith will likely play the same lineup he had last week.

Here’s how Charlotte FC could lineup to take on Inter Miami:

Defensive unit

In goal, Kristijan Kahlina gets the start with the Croatian goalkeeper picking up his first clean sheet of the 2025 season last weekend. Kahlina was involved in several key saves in the first half to keep Atlanta at bay and a strong showing on Sunday will be critical for preventing the likes of Luis Suarez and Messi.

At the center of defense, Adilson Malanda and Andrew Privett are expected to partner again. The two center backs both had strong showings in the first two games of the season and have quickly reasserted themselves as a difficult defensive unit to break down. The outside backs will include Tim Ream and Nathan Byrne who have maintained a consistent standard in both performances.

Midfield line

Charlotte’s midfield trio was adjusted last weekend with Eryk Williamson dropping to the bench and the Crown’s fan favorite Brandt Bronico returning to the midfield. Bronico’s energy last weekend was a major influence on the overall result, something that was lacking against Seattle. Ashley Westwood will captain the team as one of the center defensive midfielders and Pep Biel who opened his scoring account as well last season will be in the attacking midfield position.

Forward line

In the attack, Patrick Agyemang will be hungry to get his first goal as Charlotte’s leading number nine. With Agyemang as Charlotte’s center forward, the wings will be DP’s Liel Abada and Wilfried Zaha. Zaha’s performance in the second half last weekend was the X factor that carried Charlotte to a win against their rivals, Zaha and Abada’s contributions will be needed again in Miami.

Charlotte’s rotation options for the weekend are likely to include Eryk Williamson, Iuri Tavares, Kerwin Vargas, and Idan Toklomati depending on what Smith views as most needed to get points on the day.

With confidence and momentum running high, this weekend's fixture could be a significant statement for the club’s season if they can secure points.