Charlotte FC's predicted starting XI vs Orlando City

By Ryan Donahue

Photo courtesy of CJ Hellner/TopBin90

Charlotte FC is back at home this Friday night as the side will look to bounce back from the disappointing result in Orlando in the first leg of the playoffs. Charlotte, who will be without Pep Biel as he serves his suspension will need the full backing of their home crowd if they are to recover.

Ahead of kick-off, our team looked at how Dean Smith could line his side up to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Defensive unit

In defense, Charlotte will more than likely stick to the same back four with Adilson Malanda and Andrew Privett partnering at the center of the defense. The outside backs most likely to be deployed are Nathan Byrne who has held the position for the bulk of the regular season. At left back, Tim Ream has played a big part in helping Charlotte find their form late in the season and is most likely to start however Jere Uronen could be an option if substitutions are required.

Midfield line

If Charlotte is going to force a game three, the battle in the midfield will be vital to their plans. Ashley Westwood who has captained the side all season is expected to hold the central defensive midfield spot with Brandt Bronico sitting higher up. Júnior Urso will likely fill the third spot as he has for the past six games.

Forward line

Up front, the front three will likely consist of Karol Świderski sitting at the top of the offense. The wingers will more than likely be Kerwin Vargas and Liel Abada as Biel’s absence gives an opportunity for Vargas to come back into the starting lineup. Of course, Dean will also look to bring on Patrick Agyemang in the second half consistent with the role he has played since Świderski returned.

While last weekend's result was a disappointment, Charlotte securing the win this weekend at the Bank will keep their playoff hopes alive and trigger a third fixture between the two sides. The one certainty is the Carolina crowd will bring a ton of energy for the first home playoff match in club history.

Predicted lineup