New York City FC vs Charlotte FC Lineups, Preview

Charlotte FC, meanwhile, entered the playoffs with strong second-half form in the season, but their momentum has been slightly dampened.

Their star midfielder Pep Biel is out injured for the remainder of the year, leaving a gap in their creative engine. In the first leg, they were edged out 1-0 at home, raising the pressure ahead of this decisive meeting. Meanwhile, Wilfried Zaha is back after being suspended for the first match.

Heading into this match, NYCFC have the playoff advantage, momentum, and home-field support on their side, while Charlotte face the challenge of turning things around away from home and without a key playmaker.

Historically, New York City FC struggled against Charlotte. Across all meetings, Charlotte have won five, NYCFC one, with one draw. At Bank of America Stadium, NYCFC have never won in three attempts, scoring only twice across those games.

Expected Starting Line-ups

New York City FC

• Goalkeeper: Matt Freese
• Defenders: Tayvon Gray, Thiago Martins, Justin Haak, Raul Gustavo, Kevin O’Toole
• Midfielders: Hannes Wolf, Aiden O’Neill, Andrés Perea, Nicolás Fernández
• Forward: Alonso Martínez

Charlotte FC

• Goalkeeper: Kristijan Kahlina
• Defenders: Nathan Byrne, Adilson Malanda, Tim Ream, Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty
• Midfielders: Ashley Westwood, Djibril Diani, Brandt Bronico
• Wingers: Kerwin Vargas, W. Zaha
• Forward: Idan Toklomati

Where to Watch New York City vs. Charlotte FC

In the United States, the match will be available exclusively on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV, the official home for every MLS game this season. The same applies to Canada, where viewers can tune in through Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass.

Fans in Mexico, the game will also stream on Apple TV, though local broadcasters may carry it as well depending on regional agreements. Meanwhile, those watching from Australia can also catch all the action live on MLS Season Pass, which is accessible through Apple TV in the region.