Charlotte Reaches Peak Form as Biel and Toklomati Step Up in Agyemang's Absence
The massive 74,000-capacity Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta can feel daunting at certain moments. Previously filled with passionate supporters of a competitive Atlanta United squad, numerous sections now remain empty as the team battles at the foot of the Eastern Conference standings.
However, on Saturday, several areas were notably vocal. High in the stadium bowl, more than 2,000 Charlotte FC fans gathered together, celebrating The Crown's 3–2 triumph over Atlanta, featuring strikes from Wilfried Zaha, Idan Toklomati and Pep Biel.
Though not considered a traditional local derby, the clashes between Charlotte and Atlanta have been intensifying since the former joined MLS in 2022. Both are southern franchises with ambitions to compete for MLS Cup glory in massive NFL venues.
"This fixture always energizes me, as it reminds me of England, where visiting supporters make the journey in large numbers," Charlotte manager Dean Smith shared with media following the match, marking his team's third consecutive victory. "It's wonderful to see them present, and we understand the effort they make to attend this game."
The victory represented Charlotte's 11th triumph this season, elevating them to seventh position in the Eastern Conference. It also extended their upward trajectory during a productive week, securing three wins within just eight days. Undoubtedly a welcome improvement for the club after managing only two victories across 12 matches.
"I believe we're performing exceptionally well," skipper Ashley Westwood commented. "We're establishing solid foundations for this football organization. We haven't aimed for immediate stardom. Building a football club takes time. Since my arrival, we've qualified for the playoffs, so hopefully we can achieve that once more. We aim to go further."
Adapting after Agyemang's departure
For Smith, it's crucial that the organization progresses. Despite their recent successful streak, it comes with a changed appearance, having transferred primary striker Patrick Agyemang to Derby County in England's Championship division.
During his absence, however, Toklomati has emerged and embraced the challenge. The Israeli international has now netted four times across the previous six fixtures, assuming the crucial position in June while Agyemang was with USMNT before finalizing his move.
"[Toklomati] possesses virtually every quality. He makes runs behind defenders, drops deep to receive passes, and finds the net like he did tonight," Smith informed reporters following the contest. "He's constantly alert in the penalty area and we have faith in him. He's wearing the No. 9 jersey now and performing excellently at present, brimming with confidence."
Currently, the 20-year-old has netted five times this campaign and continues maximizing opportunities created by Charlotte's outstanding playmakers like Biel, who recorded a goal contribution for his eighth consecutive appearance.
"We recognized Pep's abilities last season, but this year he's completed a full pre-season with us, he's completely healthy, he understands his position, he knows our appreciation for him," Westwood said regarding Biel, before joking about the team's trust in Toklomati as their focal point. "[Toklomati] appears to be developing into a genuine elite striker."
With Biel and Zaha's excellent form alongside Toklomati's emerging success, Charlotte will now aim to maintain their winning momentum as they prepare for next week's encounter against Toronto FC.
"We understood this would be a crucial stretch for us, and that's four matches undefeated, three resulting in victories," Smith concluded. "We face Toronto next. I promised them an incentive two games back, that winning the following two matches would earn them an additional rest day, and these players will do anything for extra time off."