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North Carolina FC

Match Preview: North Carolina FC Travel to Charlotte

May 19, 2023 - United Soccer League One (USL1)
North Carolina FC News Release


CARY, N.C. - North Carolina FC visits rival Charlotte Independence in the second iteration of the 2023 Dogwood Derby this Sunday, May 21, at 2:00 PM ET at American Legion Memorial Stadium. Fresh off a thrilling midweek comeback win over the Richmond Kickers at home, NCFC is sitting atop the USL League One table, six points ahead of second-place Charlotte heading into the weekend.

North Carolina FC erased a two-goal deficit with three goals in the final half-hour Wednesday night to shock Richmond with a 3-2 result. Oalex Anderson, Luis Perez and Garrett McLaughlin all found the back of the net in the rally. The historic win was the third in club history when trailing 2-0 (3-71-3). A potent offense that can score in bunches, this 2023 NCFC team has a never-say-die attitude and the firepower to back it up.

Scouting Charlotte Independence

Charlotte Independence trails North Carolina FC in the USL League One standings by six points, sitting second in the table. The Independence are winless in three straight matches but have a big opportunity to make up ground in the rivalry match on Sunday. With a 47% shooting rate and over 40 shots on target, Charlotte is not afraid to get into a shootout. These two teams could light up the American Legion Stadium scoreboard this weekend.

Players to Watch

North Carolina FC - Defender Gustavo Fernandes

Starting in five of the seven games he appeared in Gustavo Fernandes has made himself a powerhouse within the North Carolina back line. Fernandes creates heavily in from the back, and that shows in his 328 successful passes this season, as well as a 89% successful pass rate. The NCFC defender looks to compete on the back line every time he steps on the pitch, whether that be duels in the air, or sliding in for a last-minute save.

Charlotte Independence -Goalkeeper Austin Pack

Pack has been a key to the Independence defense and keeping their scoring to a minimum with seven goals conceded for the season. With 33 saves, he is the leader in saves for USL League One and tied for clean sheets at four. With NCFC's' heavy offensive power, this matchup is going to be tough for the Charlotte goalkeeper.

Next Up

North Carolina FC will continue their month-long road stretch, visiting One Knoxville SC on Sunday, June 3, at 7:30 PM ET. The match will stream live on ESPN+.

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United Soccer League One Stories from May 19, 2023


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