Charlotte 2-0 Atlanta: What a Debut! Thoughts After the Match

Photo Credit: Charlotte FC

Folks, I think we found a starting lineup. Charlotte ended matchday two by keeping three points in the fortress after taking down Atlanta United. If you’re keeping track at home, that’s four points over the first two games, a good start to the season as the boys look to challenge in the East.

Coach Smith made some changes to the starting XI after the draw last week in Seattle. Wilfried Zaha started on the left in his debut after an excused absence last week to attend the birth of his daughter. Eryk Williamson, who started last week in the midfield, was replaced this match by Charlotte mainstay Brandt Bronico. I liked the changes; I felt a tweak was needed after last week, especially in the midfield. I was a bit surprised Zaha started after only having two days of training this week, but nothing beats a debut at home.

Going into the game, I was worried about Atlanta. Emmanuel Latte Lath and Miguel Almirón can change the game at any second. Latte Lath was a record signing in the MLS when he joined Atlanta and Almirón rejoined the team in the Peach State after leaving to join Premier League side Newcastle United. The first half was about fighting for possesion on both sides and missed chances on Atlanta’s side. Both teams struggled to find a groove early but the shot disparity was shocking. Of the 11 shots taken, nine went to Atlanta. The first half ended 0-0 and it was clear to anyone watching, halftime adjustments were needed.

I don’t know what Coach Smith said to the boys in the locker room, but it worked. Pep Biel broke the stalemate in the 49th minute with an assist from Zaha. Wilfried added another in the 53rd minute to put The Crown up 2-0 and from then on out, it was about defense and goalkeeping.

I was really impressed with the defense in the second half, a clean sheet is always nice. Being able to prevent the potent Atlanta attack from scoring can help build confidence in the guys as they continue this season. Having Kahlina protecting the net is a great thing to have. He was on his head all day and showed fans and viewers why he is the reigning Goalkeeper of the Year.

Overall, I’m happy with how the boys played. Slow starts are to be expected early in the year but the halftime adjustments made the difference in my opinion. Getting two goals shortly after coming out of the break certainly settled some nerves I've had in the past about “oh no, it’s even going to the half”. To no surprise, Zaha was the man of the match. What a debut!

The boys are on the road next week as they take on Inter Miami and Lionel Messi in South Florida for a 4:00 pm kickoff.