Charlotte FC Eyes MLS History with Ice-Cold Confidence Against NYCFC

Yankee Stadium has witnessed countless historic moments throughout the decades, and Charlotte FC has an opportunity to contribute to The Bronx's legendary status when they face New York City FC this Saturday afternoon.

Following their commanding 3–0 victory over Lionel Messi's Inter Miami, the North Carolina club arrives with an impressive nine-game winning streak, matching the 2018 Seattle Sounders for the longest run in MLS history beyond the shootout period.

After securing their MLS Cup Playoffs berth against Miami, Saturday's clash with NYCFC offers a chance to surpass that record while taking another crucial step in maintaining their momentum before the postseason begins.

"I believe we've already exceeded people's expectations, so there's no real pressure on us," commented U.S. men's national team defender Nathan Byrne. "It's simply about maximizing our preparation during the week to demonstrate that come match day."

Since joining MLS in 2022, Charlotte has quickly established itself as one of the league's most thrilling teams on the field, while building a remarkable atmosphere in the stands.

Prior to each home fixture, the substantial crowds at Bank of America Stadium perform the "Poznan" celebration and dance to Pepa's music—a ritual that even head coach Dean Smith embraced against Miami while serving his suspension.

This composure, backing, and self-assurance flow through the entire squad, enabling them to maintain belief in their play even as historic achievements await.

"I believe the manager contributes significantly to that; he never appears rattled or stressed," Byrne added. "He keeps everyone composed, and we're naturally a confident bunch, so we believe we can defeat anyone when we're at our best."

Naturally, this isn't Smith's first experience with such a remarkable run. In 2019, he guided Aston Villa and a young Jack Grealish through a 10-game winning sequence, ultimately securing promotion to the Premier League.

"Clearly, there will be parallels drawn, simply due to the number of matches involved, and I could equal the record I achieved at Aston Villa with a victory this Saturday," Smith noted. "I don't get overly excited and I don't get too discouraged."

Charlotte hasn't suffered a defeat since June 28.

However, while the defensive unit, anchored by USMNT center-back Tim Ream and 2021 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Kristjan Kahlina, has impressed, much attention has centered on Israeli forward Idan Toklomati.

The 21-year-old netted a hat-trick against Miami, raising his season tally to 11 goals while continuing his breakthrough campaign after stepping up following star striker Patrick Agyemang's move to English Championship club Derby County.

"What he's executing exceptionally well currently is positioning himself in the correct spots," Smith explained. "His work ethic helps him reach those right positions too...He's an excellent student who desires improvement."

Zaha Steps Up

While Toklomati has discovered his rhythm since Agyemang's exit, his attacking partners have been instrumental, with former Premier League standout Wilfried Zaha rediscovering his form after early-season struggles, alongside Brandt Bronico.

For Zaha specifically, adapting to MLS has been a significant transition. Earlier this campaign, he challenged his teammates to elevate their performance to match his standards, and this week, he treated many squad members to dinner in Charlotte.

"I believe it's beneficial. I've managed in England, as you're aware, in Birmingham and London, and it's challenging to gather all players together because they live so far from each other," Smith said regarding the team outing. "In the US, it's much simpler. Everyone resides in Charlotte. So bringing everyone together is easier, but they still need to enjoy each other's company to want to do that, and that's what pleases us."

This camaraderie has been clearly visible on the field during their recent streak, with Zaha offering Toklomati the opportunity to take penalty kicks against Miami, hoping the young striker could complete his hat-trick.

Pep Biel Ready to Return

Nevertheless, the team chemistry may need adjustment during this winning run, as star midfielder Pep Biel looks prepared to start at Yankee Stadium following his return from extended injury against Miami.

Across 25 matches, he's recorded 10 goals and 11 assists and was considered an MLS MVP candidate before his injury absence. Now, the challenge lies in reintegrating him without disrupting their excellent form.

"He's prepared," Smith said about Biel. "I didn't want to insert him only to substitute him after an hour [against Miami] because I understood what that match could represent last week, and I felt it was better to bring him on [from the bench].

"He's ready to start, should I choose to select him."

History awaits at Yankee Stadium this Saturday afternoon, as it has countless times before in Major League Baseball, and Charlotte FC hopes to inscribe their chapter in the annals of one of the world's most famous sporting venues.