Published Feb 17, 4:10am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Feb 17, 4:10am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Feb 17, 4:28am ET
The new MLS season kicks off at Energizer Park on Feb 21, as St. Louis host Charlotte.
It has been all change at St. Louis during the off-season, with Yoann Damet appointed as the new head coach. A home game on opening night will enhance their chances of making a fast start in their bid to end a two-season wait for a playoff finish.
Charlotte continued to progress under Dean Smith, making the playoffs in the last two seasons. However, with a deep squad, they will be expected to launch a serious challenge for MLS Cup glory in 2026.
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|---|---|
| St. Louis | +110 |
| The Draw | +260 |
| Charlotte | +227 |
After taking the MLS by storm in their first season, success has dried up for St. Louis.
That has led to sweeping changes during the off-season, with Corey Wray appointed sporting director and Yoann Damet appointed head coach. New additions have also been made, with Daniel Edelman being a talented midfielder, who previously captained the U.S. at the 2023 U20 World Cup.
Mamadou Fall is an imposing defender in the back four, while the energetic Rafael Santos should provide offensive quality from left-back. However, scoring goals could be a problem after allowing all-time leading scorer Joao Klauss depart for the LA Galaxy.
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Charlotte FC have gradually improved under Dean Smith, but there will be pressure on the talented roster to go a few steps better than they did in the playoffs last term in 2026.
Luca de la Torre is an excellent signing, with the U.S. international having spent last term on loan at San Diego FC. Henry Kassler is also a smart addition, with the experienced central defender having proven MLS experience after spending time at New England and St. Louis.
Adilson Malanda will be a big loss in the defensive positions, but the team look well stocked in that area of the field to suggest that they should be able to cope.
| TOTAL | St. Louis | Charlotte | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Goals | 4 | 3 | 1 |
I have high hopes for Charlotte this season, and the smart business that they have completed during the off-season could edge them closer toward a first MLS Cup honor. Based on St. Louis poor attacking options, it could be a comfortable opening night for the visitors.
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Charlotte FC
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