MATCH OVERVIEW
Charlotte FC and Chicago Fire are gearing up for a pivotal MLS match that could have lasting implications on their season trajectories. With Charlotte FC playing at home, they will look to leverage their familiar surroundings to secure a win against a Chicago Fire side that has shown resilience on the road. This match, taking place at the Bank of America Stadium, is crucial for both teams as they aim to climb the league table.
ODDS ANALYSIS
The odds favor Charlotte FC slightly, with a home win priced at 1.97, indicating a 50.76% probability. The draw is less likely at 3.77, translating to a 26.53% chance, while Chicago Fire's odds of winning are 3.48, giving them a 28.74% probability. These odds suggest a competitive match, with Charlotte FC having a slight edge due to their home advantage.
TEAM ANALYSIS
Charlotte FC has had a mixed season, averaging 1.54 goals per match and conceding 1.31. Their possession rate stands at 48.08%, indicating a balanced approach. Key strengths include their dribbling success rate of 73.15% and a solid defensive setup with 36.62 interceptions per game. However, their offensive output could be improved, as they average only 0.69 assists per match.
Chicago Fire, on the other hand, boasts a higher goal average of 1.67 per match but also concedes more, at 1.92. Their possession is slightly lower at 46.92%, but they excel in offensive metrics, with 5.25 shots on target per game. Their defensive vulnerabilities are evident in their higher expected goals against (1.73).
KEY PLAYERS SPOTLIGHT
Charlotte FC's Wilfried Zaha and Liel Abada have been standout performers, each scoring 4 goals this season. Zaha's ability to create chances and Abada's finishing skills will be crucial against Chicago's defense.
For Chicago Fire, Hugo Cuypers is the key player, having scored 8 goals. His form will be vital in breaking down Charlotte's defense. Brian Gutiérrez and Philip Zinckernagel also contribute significantly, each with 3 goals.
STATISTICAL DEEP DIVE
Charlotte FC's defensive metrics, such as 4.31 goalkeeper saves and 4.77 clearances per match, highlight their ability to withstand pressure. Their offensive metrics, including 10.08 shots per game, suggest potential for improvement.
Chicago Fire's offensive prowess is evident with 11.5 shots per game and a high BTTS percentage of 83.33%. However, their defensive metrics, such as 5.67 clearances, indicate areas for improvement.
PREDICTION AND CONCLUSION
Based on the data, Charlotte FC is slightly favored to win, given their home advantage and solid defensive setup. Key factors will include their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and maintain defensive discipline.
Final Score Prediction: Charlotte FC 2-1 Chicago Fire Half Time Score Prediction: Charlotte FC 1-1 Chicago Fire Both Teams To Score Probability: 70% Over 2.5 Goals Probability: 65%