Domestic football returns to the United States this week as Charlotte FC and Atlanta United go head-to-head at Bank of America Stadium on Wednesday following Major League Soccer's lengthy break. After 15 matches, the two southeastern rivals have endured contrasting fortunes, but the objective remains the same this week: claiming all three points.

Charlotte have endured a mixed campaign so far, but their performances just before the World Cup break suggest there is reason for optimism as they chase a third consecutive postseason appearance.

After suffering a six-match winless run, the Crown bounced back with victories in their final two outings before the break, beating Toronto FC 3-1 before Idan Toklomati's early strike secured a 1-0 win over New England Revolution a week later.

Results have been far from kind to Atlanta United in recent years, and they appear destined for another difficult campaign after managing just three league wins all season, with their failure to score goals proving particularly costly.

Gerardo Martino's men slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat against rivals Nashville SC last time out, meaning they headed into the World Cup break on a run of four defeats and one draw from their previous five matches.

Atlanta have added much-needed experience to their backline during the secondary transfer window in the form of Junior Alonso and Paulo Díaz, and will hope the duo can play an integral role in turning the Five Stripes' fortunes around over the coming weeks.

Charlotte should head into this one as the more confident side after winning each of their last two matches. The Crown will also be buoyed by home advantage, although they will have to cope without David Schnegg, who is out with a suspension.

Atlanta's poor form inspires little confidence ahead of this encounter, and while the visitors would likely be satisfied with a point, they could ultimately come unstuck.

Prediction: Charlotte FC 2-1 Atlanta United

Tip 1 - Result: Charlotte FC to win

Tip 2 - Goals - Over/under 2.5 - Over 2.5 goals

Tip 3 - Both teams to score: Yes

Quick Links