New York City FC vs. Charlotte FC Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, 20 September 2025

We’ve got an intriguing Major League Soccer clash on our hands as New York City FC take on Charlotte FC at Yankee Stadium on 20 September 2025. With both teams vying for playoff positioning, this could be a pivotal encounter.

New York City FC, currently 8th in the standings with 50 points, will be eager to claim victory in front of their home fans. They’ve shown decent form, winning three out of their last five games and scoring in seven consecutive matches. Pascal Jansen’s side will look to their top scorer Alonso Martinez, who has notched 15 goals this season, to provide the offensive firepower.

Meanwhile, Charlotte FC sit 5th in the table with 53 points and are on an outstanding five-game winning streak. Dean Smith’s men will be buoyed by their recent 2-0 victory over New York City FC back in July. Charlotte’s robust defence has seen them keep four clean sheets in their last five matches, thanks largely to the efforts of goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina and star defender Tim Ream.

Considering Charlotte FC’s impressive current form, a recommended bet is Charlotte FC +0.25 (AH). Expect this to be a competitive match with both teams pushing hard for a crucial win.

New York City FC vs Charlotte FC Prediction & Betting Tip

New York City FC vs Charlotte FC Prediction
Betting tip	Odds
Charlotte FC +0.25 (AH)	3.60

Charlotte FC is currently in stunning form with a five-game winning streak, making them a formidable opponent. Given their last encounter ended in a 2-0 victory for Charlotte, they clearly have the upper hand.

Reasons for this Betting Tip:

• Charlotte FC has a strong defensive record, with four clean sheets in their last five matches.
• New York City FC has been consistent but less impressive, winning three out of their last five games.
• Considering both teams’ positions in the standings, Charlotte FC’s form suggests they have the momentum for at least a draw or a narrow win.

New York City FC vs Charlotte FC Odds

To add to the excitement of this matchup, let’s take a look at the betting odds for New York City FC vs Charlotte FC:

New York City FC vs Charlotte FC Betting Odds
Bet	Odds
New York City FC	1.95
Draw	3.53
Charlotte FC	3.60

Given that New York City FC is the bookmaker’s favourite at odds of 1.95, they’re expected to have the upper hand, especially playing at Yankee Stadium. However, with Charlotte FC’s outstanding form and their previous win over New York City FC back in July, the 3.60 odds for an away win look enticing. The draw sits at 3.53, indicating a tightly contested match could be on the cards. It’s a brave choice but not out of the realm of possibility.

New York City FC Team Analysis

New York City FC Recent Performance

New York City FC enter this clash in pretty solid form, winning three out of their last five matches (WLWWW). They recently secured victories over Columbus Crew (3-2) and Chicago Fire FC (3-1), demonstrating their ability to find the back of the net consistently.

Their average goals scored in the last five games stands at an impressive 2.00, but they have only managed to keep one clean sheet, indicating some vulnerability in defense.

That said, Pascal Jansen’s squad knows how to perform under pressure, and the home advantage of playing at Yankee Stadium could be a decisive factor.

• Recent Matches:
  • New York City FC 3-2 Columbus Crew (17 September 2025)
  • Chicago Fire FC 1-3 New York City FC (14 September 2025)
  • New York City FC 1-2 DC United (30 August 2025)
  • FC Cincinnati 0-1 New York City FC (23 August 2025)
  • New York City FC 2-1 Nashville SC (17 August 2025)

With Alonso Martinez in fine goal-scoring form, having netted 15 goals this season, New York City FC will be looking to keep their playoff ambitions alive with another win.

New York City FC Key Players

New York City FC boasts a strong lineup, anchored by their top scorer, Alonso Martinez, who has netted 15 goals this season. Martinez will undoubtedly be the focus of the team’s attacking efforts, aiming to break through Charlotte FC’s solid defence.

Another key player is Nicolas Fernandez, expected to play a crucial role in the midfield. Alongside him, Aiden O’Neill and Hannes Wolf will work to control the tempo of the game and provide service to the forwards.

Defensively, Thiago Martins and Raul Gustavo will be tasked with keeping Charlotte’s offensively strong players like Idan Toklomati and Wilfried Zaha at bay.
Expected Lineup for New York City FC:

• Goalkeeper: Matt Freese
• Defenders: Tayvon Gray, Raul Gustavo, Thiago Martins, Justin Haak, Kevin O’Toole
• Midfielders: Nicolas Fernandez Mercau, Aiden O’Neill, Hannes Wolf
• Attackers: Alonso Martínez, Maxi Moralez

The battle between Martinez and Charlotte’s solid defence, led by Tim Ream, will be a key individual showdown to watch.

New York City FC Suspensions & Injuries

New York City FC will have to cope with a few significant absences due to injuries, which could impact their depth and performance. Malachi Jones and Keaton Parks are both sidelined with leg injuries, while Nico Cavallo is out until early October due to a similar issue.

These injuries could disrupt the midfield dynamics, especially with Parks being a crucial player in connecting the play between defence and attack. While Jones and Cavallo’s absence will undoubtedly thin out the defensive options, coach Pascal Jansen will likely have to rely on his bench to fill these gaps.

Despite these setbacks, new faces in the lineup and the forthcoming energy from other squad members could provide an unexpected spark. Their ability to adapt will be crucial in maintaining their recent form.

New York City FC Tactics and Formation

New York City FC Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Alonso Martinez
• Midfield Trio: Nicolas Fernandez Mercau, Aiden O’Neill, Hannes Wolf
• Defensive Strength: One clean sheet in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Strong attack during the 61-75-minute interval

Under the guidance of Pascal Jansen, New York City FC typically deploys a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing offensive pressure and control in the midfield. Alonso Martinez is the focal point of their attack, with Maxi Moralez providing support from the left forward position.

In the midfield, Nicolas Fernandez Mercau, Aiden O’Neill, and Hannes Wolf are tasked with distributing the ball effectively and maintaining possession. At the back, Thiago Martins and Raul Gustavo form the central defensive partnership, aiming to nullify Charlotte’s attacking threats.

The team’s ability to maintain a high tempo, especially in the middle portion of the game, often sees them create numerous scoring opportunities during the 61-75-minute interval.

Charlotte FC Team Analysis

Charlotte FC Recent Performance

Charlotte FC come into this match on an incredible five-game winning streak (WWWWW), making them one of the league’s in-form teams. Their recent run includes a dominant 3-0 win over Inter Miami CF and narrow victories over New England Revolution and New York Red Bulls.

With an average of 1.60 goals scored per game in their last five matches, they have been efficient in front of goal. Defensively, they’ve been exceptional, keeping four clean sheets in these five matches, which is a testament to the solid performances from goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina and defender Tim Ream.

• Recent Matches:
  • Charlotte FC 3-0 Inter Miami CF (13 September 2025)
  • New England Revolution 1-2 Charlotte FC (30 August 2025)
  • Charlotte FC 1-0 New York Red Bulls (24 August 2025)
  • Charlotte FC 1-0 Real Salt Lake (16 August 2025)
  • FC Cincinnati 0-1 Charlotte FC (10 August 2025)

With the momentum firmly on their side, Charlotte FC will be a tough nut to crack for any opponent.

Charlotte FC Key Players

Charlotte FC’s current success is anchored by key players who have consistently delivered this season. Idan Toklomati, the team’s top scorer with 11 goals, will be leading the line and is essential to their attacking prowess. He will likely be supported by the dynamic Wilfried Zaha, who brings both experience and flair to the left wing.

In midfield, Djibril Diani and Ashley Westwood are pivotal in controlling the game’s tempo and disrupting the opposition’s play. The robust defensive lineup includes standout performances from Tim Ream and Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, who have been instrumental in achieving four clean sheets in the last five games.
Expected lineup for Charlotte FC:

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

This creates several anticipated individual battles, notably Toklomati vs Thiago Martins and Zaha vs Tayvon Gray, which could significantly impact the match outcome.

Charlotte FC Suspensions & Injuries

Charlotte FC faces a few injury challenges ahead of their matchup against New York City FC. Key players on the injury list include Harry Toffolo, who is out with a hamstring injury and expected to return in late September, and Archie Goodwin, who will be missing from action until mid-October due to a thigh injury.

Toffolo’s absence could have an impact on the defensive stability of the team, as his contributions have been invaluable this season. Goodwin’s injury is also a setback, especially for squad depth and rotational options.

Despite these injuries, Charlotte FC has maintained strong performances and will be looking to continue their winning streak with the available squad members. Their tactical adaptability and squad depth will be crucial in overcoming these absences.

Charlotte FC Tactics and Formation

Charlotte FC Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Idan Toklomati
• Midfield Trio: Ashley Westwood, Brandt Bronico, Djibril Diani
• Defensive Strength: Four clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Strong defensive discipline with a focus on counter-attacks

Dean Smith has moulded Charlotte FC into a tactically flexible side, primarily utilizing a 4-3-3 formation. Idan Toklomati will spearhead the attack, supported on the flanks by Wilfried Zaha and Kerwin Vargas. This front three offers both speed and technical prowess, making them a constant threat.

In the midfield, Ashley Westwood, Brandt Bronico, and Djibril Diani are expected to control the tempo and act as a shield for the defence, which has been rock-solid lately with four clean sheets in their last five games. At the back, the experienced Tim Ream will be pivotal in organizing the defence and countering New York City FC’s offensive threats.

Charlotte’s strategy often includes absorbing pressure and hitting teams on the break, a tactic that could be highly effective against an offensively inclined New York City FC.

New York City FC vs Charlotte FC Head-to-Head Statistics

Analyzing the recent meetings between New York City FC and Charlotte FC, we find a series of closely contested fixtures. Over the last five encounters, Charlotte FC holds a slight edge with three wins, one draw, and one loss against New York City FC.

Last 5 Meetings:

• Charlotte FC 2-0 New York City FC (13 July 2025, Major League Soccer)
• New York City FC 2-1 Charlotte FC (27 April 2024, Major League Soccer)
• Charlotte FC 1-0 New York City FC (25 February 2024, Major League Soccer)
• New York City FC 1-1 Charlotte FC (5 July 2023, Major League Soccer)
• Charlotte FC 3-2 New York City FC (6 May 2023, Major League Soccer)

Charlotte FC has often been first on the scoresheet in their fixtures against New York City FC, scoring in 86% of their past seven encounters. Meanwhile, New York City FC, despite showing attacking prowess, has struggled for consistency against Charlotte.

This history suggests a highly competitive matchup, with Charlotte FC potentially having a slight psychological advantage given their recent dominance.

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