With seven games remaining in the MLS regular season, Charlotte FC finds itself at a crucial moment. The pressure to lock in a playoff spot is heating up, and the recent loss at Atlanta United was a real blow. But as always in soccer, there's no time to dwell on the past. The next challenge is already here: CF Montreal, a team also trying to recover from a string of poor results. This match is destined to be heated.
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Westwood: The Heart of Charlotte FC
Head coach Dean Smith didn't hold his praise for his captain Ashley Westwood back, "He's our All-American hero, even though he's British," Smith joked, letting people know how important the player is for the team. It comes as no surprise. Not only did Westwood extend his contract, but also he has become that kind of leader whom the team needs in such critical moments. His experience and skills with seven games remaining will be needed to get Charlotte back on track.
According to Dean Smith, the extension of Westwood's contract was not any accident. "His influence, personality, and what he's shown on the field are the reasons why he earned this new contract," said the coach. The captain instills rhythm among teammates, and his mere presence tends to elevate everybody's performance.
After two tough losses, including the defeat to Atlanta, Charlotte FC needs stability more than ever. And if anyone can provide that, it's Westwood.
Montreal in Crisis: Survival or Collapse?
CF Montreal is having a stormy season. The post-Wilfried Nancy era started as a big test for head coach Laurent Courtouis. A total of 12 goals conceded in the last four games with zero wins recorded. What started off as a promising campaign is slowly unraveling. Still, a glimmer of hope would be that Montreal is just five points away from a playoff spot.
Montreal president Gabriel Gervais has not lost his faith. "The expectations remain the same, and we want to reach the playoffs," Gervais stated as he proceeded with his confident words about his coach and players. But, as we know, promises and motivational speeches must at some moment be transformed into concrete facts. And herein lies the big question for Montreal: how will it be able to reorganize in due time?
Charlotte FC's Dean Smith showed respect for the opponent: "If you don't respect them, it's at your own risk because they're a good soccer team." And he is correct. Despite everything, Montreal still has players who can make life difficult for any team, especially if underestimated.
What's in play for Charlotte FC?
A win in this game against Chicago would go a long way toward solidifying playoff chances for Charlotte, as well as restoring confidence after recent losses. "We know what we want to do; we're aiming for the top four," Westwood said. And to get there, the team needs results now.
Montreal's defense is poor, and this is an opportunity that Charlotte cannot afford to miss. Again, Westwood is the man to look out for as he dictates the pace of the game by controlling midfield. If he does his job well, then Charlotte's chances of carrying all three points away become higher.
CF Montreal: A Last Attempt at Survival
For CF Montreal, Charlotte is a survival shot. They know that if they fail to win, the chance to get into the playoffs will be drastically low. Laurent Courtois has to fix up the defense while motivating his players to believe there is something to fight for this season.
In that respect, the Montreal coach might use the motivation behind the Piatti tribute to motivate his squad, as well. After all, Gabriel Gervais has said one thing: it is a spot in the playoffs.