The venue is Bank of America Stadium for a dramatic encounter between Cincinnati FC and Charlotte FC. Two teams, both as evenly matched as they are in need of points, meet in a contest that can be a season-changer. Charlotte, stinging from a narrow loss to Inter Miami, face a Cincinnati team reeling from a humiliating Concacaf defeat. Both squads are gritty and talented, but form that can't be trusted and injuries add depth. Charlotte's home crowd will roar for redemption, and Cincinnati will attempt to silence them with a statement win. Their history ensures fireworks—six meetings, half-and-half, with goals aplenty. As the Eastern Conference title battle rages on, this is not just a game; it's a proving ground. Who will seize the moment? Fasten your seatbelts for a battle where every play counts.
Claim Welcome BonusCharlotte FC
Charlotte FC approaches this encounter resolved to rebound. Their previous one—a 1-0 defeat to Inter Miami—hurt even though they dominated with 57% possession, 13 corners, and 9 on-target shots. They had control of the ball but could not break through the Miami defense with only one keeper save by Kristijan Kahlina and a yellow card. Now with an expected goals (xG) of 1.33 against Cincinnati, they will be hoping to translate chances into reality. Injuries add to the pressure—out are Jahlane Forbes, Brandon Cambridge, and Nimfasha Berchimas. Recent form (WWDWL) shows resiliency, but there's no consistency. Spark is needed from coach Dean Smith, who is banking on Kahlina, who has recorded 1 clean sheet in three games. 6th place and 3 points (1W, 1D, 1L) translate to a need for a spark. Their home support could be that spark. Last time these teams met, Charlotte triumphed 3-1, a memory they’ll aim to relive. Cincinnati’s leaky defense offers hope, but Smith knows his squad must stay disciplined—12 fouls last match can’t become a habit. This is their shot to climb the standings and prove they belong.
Cincinnati FC
Cincinnati FC enters Charlotte bruised but not bowed. Their latest fall—a 3-1 Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16 loss to Tigres—showed cracks. With a mere 33% possession, 2 corners, and 5 on target, they struggled, conceding three while Evander saved a lone effort. Five saves and two yellow cards characterized a desperate attempt, but 15 fouls told the tale of desperation. Facing Charlotte, their xG of 1.44 bodes for scoring opportunities. Defeats to Alec Kann and Matt Miazga hurt, however, and form (DLDWL) suggests volatility. Striker Ahoueke Denkey is Coach Pat Noonan's go-to, a nightmare with 19 goals and 9 assists in 35 games. Cincinnati sits 4th with 6 points (2W, 0D, 1L) and their season-opening optimism must be preserved. Their last visit to Charlotte ended in a 3-1 defeat, a margin they're eager to turn around. Noonan will look for dominance, knowing Charlotte's possession football can overwhelm. Denkey's goal-scoring prowess can exploit the hosts' injury-ravaged defense. This is a chance to steady the ship—or sink deeper into doubt.
Head to Head
Charlotte FC and Cincinnati FC share a well-balanced rivalry, with both sides claiming 2 wins and 2 draws in six meetings. Goals have come freely, and neither team gives an inch. Their most recent meeting on July 14, 2024, was a Charlotte rout by a 3-1 score, one that still burns Cincinnati. Both sides have exchanged blows in recent years, splitting points and pride. This time, with Charlotte at home and Cincinnati looking for revenge, there are higher stakes. There is no historic balance now—form, injuries, and execution will decide. Expect a tight, fiery contest where everything is to play for.
History of Head-to-Heads
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Charlotte FC Latest Games
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Expert Betting Tips
Both Teams to Score - Yes (1.64 Odds): Charlotte’s attack (9 shots on goal last match) and Cincinnati’s Denkey (19 goals) suggest goals at both ends. Past meetings back this up.
Over 2.5 Goals (1.89 Odds): Their last clash hit 4 goals, and with xG at 1.33 and 1.44, this could tip over 2.5 again.
Charlotte Win or Draw and Over 1.5 Goals (1.727 Odds): Charlotte's home advantage and 3-1 July victory give them an edge to be not outright beaten, even with the threat of Cincinnati.
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