Published Nov 3, 5:28am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Nov 3, 5:28am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Nov 3, 5:28am ET
The pressure increases on teams in the MLS Playoffs this weekend, as the crucial third games are set. Charlotte FC and New York City FC collide in North Carolina on November 7. Find our picks here.
A tense evening is set for Friday, as Charlotte FC bid to make their home advantage count against NYC. However, each of the last two games between these sides have been won by the team playing away from home.
Charlotte FC kept their playoff dreams alive on Saturday after holding their nerve to secure a penalty shootout success.
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|
|---|---|
| Charlotte FC | +148 |
| The Draw | +240 |
| NYCFC | +183 |
Home advantage could count for a lot in Game Three, and Charlotte will have their home fans in attendance on Friday.
Charlotte FC are yet to score in their last three matches against NYC, which includes going goalless in each of the two clashes between the sides in the playoffs.
They were defensively solid in the 0-0 draw against NYC on Saturday, limiting their talented opponents to just five shots on target. However, they will need to play more on the front foot if they are to secure a spot in the second round on Friday.
New York City had the opportunity to avoid a game three on Saturday, but they were incredibly wasteful in the final third against Charlotte.
They will be hoping that they aren't made to regret those missed chances by Saturday evening. Despite playing in a defensive 5-4-1 formation, NYC have an excellent ability to cause major issues for their opponents, due to the pace in which they break at.
Perea and Fernandez both come into narrow areas, which allows Gray and O'Toole to advance from their full-back roles to join the attacks.
| TOTAL | Charlotte | NYC | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 10 | 5 | 3 | 2 |
| Goals | 21 | 12 | 9 |
Charlotte FC have failed to reach their high standards so far during the playoffs, and that would be a concern ahead of this clash.
New York City should have already secured their spot in the next round, and their defensive setup has stifled their playoff opponents. Therefore, there could be value in the betting to side with the away win when making Charlotte FC vs. New York City FC picks.
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Pick
New York City FC (+183)
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