New England Revolution Face Red-Hot Charlotte FC in Crucial Playoff Push Clash

Match Background & Qualification Scenarios

This Major League Soccer (MLS) regular season match holds different significance for both teams. Visiting side Charlotte FC is currently the hottest team in the league, riding an impressive seven-game winning streak since mid-July. They sit comfortably in fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings with 47 points (15 wins, 11 draws, 2 losses), with their playoff qualification appearing secure. [15, 20, 23] During their winning run, they have scored 12 goals and conceded only 3, showcasing strong offensive and defensive capabilities. [20] In contrast, the home team, New England Revolution (8 wins, 7 draws, 12 losses, 31 points), is currently in 11th place in the Eastern Conference, eight points adrift of a playoff spot. [16, 22, 23] For the Revolution, this is a must-win game to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. [15, 23] Notably, New England Revolution has a perfect 3-0-0 all-time home record against Charlotte FC, including a 1-0 away victory earlier this season in April. [20]

Recent Form

Charlotte FC's recent form has been exceptional, as they have secured seven consecutive wins since mid-July, making them the most in-form team in MLS. [15, 20] Their last victory was a 1-0 triumph over the New York Red Bulls. [15] During this winning streak, Charlotte FC has kept four clean sheets, highlighting their formidable defensive performance. [15, 20] In contrast, the New England Revolution's recent form has been more inconsistent. Although they have won two of their last three matches, including a 2-1 away win against Columbus Crew in their most recent outing, their overall performance remains poor. [23] They have an overall record of 8 wins, 7 draws, and 12 losses from 27 matches this season. [16, 22] Their home record is particularly concerning, with only 3 wins, 2 draws, and 8 losses. [16, 23]

Key Players & Injury News

For the New England Revolution, captain Carles Gil is a pivotal attacking force, having scored the winning goal in their last encounter with Charlotte FC. Leo Campana is in strong recent form, with four goals in his last six appearances, making him the team's second-highest scorer. [20, 23] Goalkeeper Matt Turner will also be a key figure for the team. [18] According to the latest reports, the New England Revolution has no major injury concerns for this match and is expected to field their usual starting eleven. [18] For Charlotte FC, key players include Idan Toklomati, who has been instrumental in their recent winning streak, the in-form Kerwin Vargas, and star forward Wilfried Zaha. [15, 23] However, Charlotte FC faces several significant injury absences; leading scorer Pep Biel is sidelined with a hamstring injury. [7, 10, 23] Additionally, Tyger Smalls, Bill Tuiloma, and Drake Callender are out injured, and Harry Toffolo's availability is uncertain. [10, 18]