INDEPENDENCE, LEXSPORTING LOOK TO REBOUND

Matchup: Charlotte Independence (6-5-5, 5th) vs. Lexington SC (3-7-5, 10th)
Venue: American Legion Memorial Stadium
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
Weather: Mostly Cloudy, 87°
Broadcast: ESPN+
Hashtag: #CLTvLEX
Series (First Meeting): 1-0-0, Lexington (2023)

WHAT MATTERS

Stop the Slide: Both the Charlotte Independence and Lexington SC arrived on two-game losing streaks, with the Independence’s four-game winless run having moved back into a battle around the playoff line instead of vying for top spot in the League One standings. Getting back in the win column would be big for the host, while Lexington needs a win to start a push back into the playoff race after a major setback last time out.

Shore Up The Back: Lexington has had its defensive struggles this season but last Sunday night it might have bottomed out as it suffered a 5-1 home defeat against South Georgia Tormenta FC to now sit second in the league in goals conceded. With 10 goals against in the past three games, LSC will need to address those concerns as it looks for a repeat of the club’s 1-0 victory when these sides met in Kentucky in May.

Home Cooking: The Independence’s past two defeats have come on the road against the current top two in the League One standings, but the side has delivered far better results at Memorial Stadium this season with four wins in seven outings and only one defeat. As disappointing as the club’s four-game road trip has been, the Independence won 3-0 against Union Omaha when it last played on its home turf on June 3, and a return to familiar territory could offer a turn in form that is desperately needed.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Tresor Mbuyu, Charlotte Independence – The left winger has scored all three of his goals this season on home turf, and he notched his first assist of the season in Charlotte’s setback against Hailstorm FC on Tuesday night, potentially setting the stage for a strong performance this time out.

AVAILABILITY REPORT

CLT: Bachir Ndiaye (out)

LEX: None

TEAM MATCH PREVIEWS

Charlotte

Lexington