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A little rain never hurt anyone, especially Saturday night as Charlotte FC kept the good vibes going with a 2-1 win over a struggling Philadelphia Union side.

Matt and Corey are here to talk about the weather, talk about the match, talk about the goals and – it can't all be positive – talk about some warning signs we see in the defensive play.

They also discuss Abada's play and his role on the squad, Zaha's unfortunate fifth yellow and answer all of your questions!

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Want to get into our Discord to discuss all the matches this season, get access to Soccer and Coffee and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

The boys are back in town Saturday for a huge matchup with Philadelphia Union. To get you ready for Charlotte FC's next match, David Gusler invited Union insider and expert José Nuñez to join the show!

David and José talk about the season so far for both clubs, discuss why Philly has struggled so far this season and preview some key matchups to watch on Saturday. And we answer your questions!

Make sure to follow José Nuñez on X @JoserNunez91 or at his Substack, nunezj.substack.com.

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Want to get into our Discord to discuss all the matches this season, get access to Soccer and Coffee and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

How much fun was that?!? Join Matt and David as they dive into Charlotte FC's exhilarating and record-breaking 6-1 win against New York Red Bulls, breaking down the key moments, tactical shifts, standout performances and fan reactions. Matt and David dig into:

• Djibril Diani's surprising but effective role in midfield and crucial runs.
• Pep Biel's consistent goal contributions and impressive stats.
• Wilfred Zaha's crucial goal showcasing his signature move.
• Archie Goodwin and Liel Abada's impactful sub appearances enhancing team momentum.
• Referee decisions, including the controversial red card for Red Bulls, analyzed.
• Speculation about star signings like Salah and league expansion, and what it means for Charlotte FC.

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Want to get into our Discord to discuss all the matches this season, get access to Soccer and Coffee and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

No Messi. No goals. No major things to get excited about after Charlotte FC's 0-0 draw with Inter Miami Saturday night at The Bank.

Matt, David and Corey return this week to discuss:

• Four yellow cards in four matches for Zaha.
• Why the attack struggled against a heavily rotated Miami side. (We have screenshots again!)
• Why is Abada still starting?
• And we answer your questions, including one about our favorite soccer movie.

And apparently Matt played soccer against The Avett Brothers?

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Want to get into our Discord to discuss all the matches this season, get access to Soccer and Coffee and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

That was a party. After two lackluster road performances, Charlotte FC returned home Saturday and scored a much-needed 3-1 win over Austin FC in front of an electric home crowd at The Bank.

Matt Swift and Corey Inscoe are here to break down the match, digging into:

• Some interesting changes to the starting lineup.
• How an early red card for Austin impacted the result.
• What made the attack so successful this match. (Matt is back with some more illustrated screencaps!)
• What defensive changes led to a lack of Austin chances.
• And we answer your questions!

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Want to get into our Discord to discuss all the matches this season, get access to Soccer and Coffee and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

The less said about that match, the better. Well, maybe we have a few things to say.

Matt, David and Corey return this week to talk about Charlotte FC's abysmal performance in a 3-0 loss at the LA Galaxy. We talk about the lineup, who is really to blame for the goals – Matt has screenshots again! – and when it's time to hit the panic button. (Hint: Not yet...)

Come see us during a live show this Friday, March 6, at NoDa Brewing and get ready for Charlotte FC's home opener!

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Want to get into our Discord to discuss all the matches this season, get access to Soccer and Coffee and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

The first Charlotte FC match of 2026 is in the books and Matt and Corey are here to break it down. Charlotte FC traveled to St. Louis City and walked away with a 1-1 draw to open this year's MLS campaign. Matt and Corey break down the match, including the poor defending that led to STL's goal, and find the positives in the play of Pep Biel, Wilfred Zaha and Kristijan Kahlina.

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Want to get into our Discord to discuss all the matches this season, get access to Soccer and Coffee and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

David and Corey are back to break down Saturday's season opener between Charlotte FC and St. Louis City SC. They look back at the first time these two teams played and reflect on all that has changed since then before making predictions about this year's matchup. And we answer a few more listener questions.

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Want to get into our Discord to discuss the first match and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Soccer is back, baby. The Charlotte FC season kicks off this Saturday, so David and Corey got together to do a season preview of sorts, breaking down the offseason, picking some CLTFC superlatives and predicting where the Crown will finish in 2026. We also answered your questions, including one about the Muppets.

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Want to get into our Discord to discuss offseason happenings and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Matt Swift and David Gusler are back to talk about this week's kit release, discuss the players who have come and gone from Charlotte FC this transfer window and answer your questions as we get closer to the start of the 2025 MLS season!

---

Want to get into our Discord to discuss offseason happenings and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

David Gusler and Corey Inscoe emerge from their holiday hibernation ready to talk about Charlotte FC's transfer rumors and what it says about the club's intentions, the one confirmed transfer (Luca de la Torre), Abada's future with the club and hot dogs (of course). We also answer some listener questions as we knock the rust off in this first episode of 2026.---Want to get into our Discord to discuss offseason happenings and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

It's a newsy episode of the Mint City Soccer Show! Join Matt and Corey to hear about:

• General Manager Zoran Krneta's contract extension.
• Thoughts on the new MLS calendar starting in 2027.
• Charlotte FC's 2026 schedule, which came out this week.
• The departure of Christian Fuchs.
• And the extension of The Mayor, Brandt Bronico.

---

Want to get into our Discord to discuss offseason happenings and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Join Matt, David and Corey as we process our emotions after Charlotte FC's 2025 season comes to an end. We discuss the decisive Game 3 loss to New York City FC, break down what went wrong on all three goals allowed, question the second half subs and start to think about where the team goes from here. And we answer your questions!

---

Want to get into our Discord to discuss offseason happenings and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Friday night is winner take all as Charlotte FC hosts New York City FC in game 3 of the first round of the MLS playoffs. Matt and Corey are here to talk through the disappointing first match of the series and the nailbiter in New York City that got us here. Who stood out? Who struggled? And what does the Crown need to do to advance to the next round?

Also, we answer your questions and ask for your help picking a new theme song for the show. (It's a long story ... which we tell you right at the beginning.)

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Want to get into our Discord to discuss the upcoming match and ask us questions for the show? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and more, including special Secret Show episodes we release just to supporters.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

At times this season it didn't seem possible, but Charlotte FC clinched a top four spot and home-field advantage in the first round of the playoffs with a 2-0 win over the Supporters' Shield-winning Philadelphia Union.

Matt and Corey discuss the match, from the beautiful first half goals to the ugly second half red card that will leave the Crown without Zaha in the first playoff game.

They also discuss fan concerns with the playoff scheduling, look back on our favorite parts of the regular season and answer your questions!

---

We've started doing occasional special episodes as well! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

DC United received two red cards in the first thirty minutes of the match, which means Charlotte FC played 11 vs. 9 for 60 minutes against the worst team in the East. And the Crown only managed to score one goal to get the win.

David and Corey are here to talk about the overall performance, focusing especially on a few midfielders who had a shot to show they deserved a spot on this team. They also talk a bit about the playoff seeding outlook for Charlotte as we get closer to decision day. And we finally answer a few of the fun questions listeners have sent us that Corey has been hanging on to for way too long.

---

We've started doing occasional special episodes as well! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

In a special live show, the whole gang is back together to talk about Charlotte FC's streak-ending loss to New York City FC last weekend. How does it affect the Crown's playoff chances? Was it a blip or were there signs of deeper problems? When should Biel return to the starting lineup? What does Charlotte need to do to bounce back against CF Montreal this weekend?

We talk about all of that, plus answer listener questions and, because it was a live show, we went off the rails a few times talking about David's Sunday beer league, Drake and ... the weather?

---We've started doing occasional special episodes as well! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Charlotte FC tied the MLS record with nine straight wins and clinched a playoff spot with one of the most perfect nights of soccer, beating Inter Miami 3-0.

Matt Swift and Corey Inscoe revel in Kahlina's save of Messi's penalty, Toklomati's hat trick, and the impressive play of basically the entire team in front of a sold out lower bowl.

We also look at Charlotte FC's realistic chances for No. 1 in the East (and the Supporters' Shield??) and answer your questions, including one about the wave (yeah, we're going there again).

(Episode title inspired by Eric Hill on Discord.)

---

We've started doing occasional special episodes as well! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Eight. Games. In a row. Charlotte FC is on a hot streak and the whole gang is back together (mostly) to dig into the 2-1 road win over New England Revolution.

Matt, David and (eventually) Corey discuss:

• The historic win and historic goal.
• The impact of Nathan Byrne's return to the team.
• The midfield, and who should or should not be playing in it.
• The positive contributions Zaha has made throughout the season.
• Vargas, who has been on fire.
• And, yeah, we talk about the twerking fine, especially in light of what Inter Miami did at the Leagues Cup final.

---

We've started doing occasional special episodes as well! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

David Gusler is joined by the legendary Fat Bird (Donny Embleton) and Mr. Reliable Matt Chantry to break down Charlotte FC's 1-0 win over New York Red Bulls and the teams seven – 7! – game win streak.

• Undefeated Vibes: We discuss what's driving the team's incredible unbeaten run and what it means for the season.
• Kerwin Vargas: The Man, The Myth, The Legend: Kerwin Vargas is on fire and, allegedly, all of Portugal is watching! We get into his recent form and what it would take for him to make the big move overseas.
• The Toffolo Rollercoaster: Harry Toffolo's debut was a wild ride of brilliant plays and a heartbreaking hamstring injury. We discuss the immediate impact he had on the attack and how his injury affects the team's game plan.
• Idan Toklomati: A Future Legend? We break down his physicality, his impressive consistency, and why he could be the next record-breaking transfer for the club.
• And we answered your questions.

---

We've started doing occasional special episodes as well! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Charlotte FC won its sixth MLS match in a row 1-0 over Real Salt Lake Saturday and are in the heat of a tight race for playoff seeding. Meanwhile, the team has been busy in the transfer market, saying hello to some new (surprising) players and goodbye to some (not-so-surprising) players.

Matt, David and Corey are back together this week to talk through the match, the latest transfer news and what might come in this final week of the window and answer your many great questions.

Oh, and we talk about Zaha being Zaha.

Because we mentioned it, you can find our interview with George Marks here.

--

We've started doing occasional special episodes as well! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Charlotte FC got a surprise 1-0 win over Cincinnati Sunday night – the perfect start to this last stretch of the season.

David is joined this week by Donny (aka Fat Bird) to discuss:

• Charlotte's unbeaten run in MLS play, showcasing resilience after a League Cup exit.
• Kahlina's crucial performance to keep Charlotte in the match with FCC.
• The red card, refs and fans.
• The potential signing of Drake Callender and what that means for the future of Charlotte's goalkeeping situation.

--

We've started doing occasional special episodes as well! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

What is there to say about the first two Leagues Cup matches? A lot, apparently.

David, Matt and Corey are back together this week to discuss Charlotte FC's 4-1 loss to Juarez and the penalty shootout loss to Chivas. There were some positives (yay Nathan Byrne!) but also a lot of negatives (😢 Pep).

We break it all down this week, while also answering your listener questions around the summer transfer window. Finally, we discuss the meaning of time in a soccer match. Stay to the end to see what we mean.

--

We've started doing occasional special episodes as well! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

We're letting y'all in on a little secret by sharing the latest episode of the Mint City Soccer Show Secret Show!

You may have heard us mention on the show that we've started doing weekly bonus episodes for our paying Patreon members. If you want to hear more like this, you can join our Patreon here – patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow – and become a paying member of The Corndog Stand to get access to the Secret Show and our Discord.

Now about this episode ...

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Welcome to the Mint City Soccer Show Secret Show Game Show, the only Charlotte FC game show that is a run-on sentence.

Your host, David Gusler, has invited Russell Varner and Vaughn Pollman onto the stage to try and answer 20 questions about Charlotte FC. The rules are made up and the points don't matter, which will quickly become very clear.

Listen in to see if you could do better than our contestants – and see if you remember the No. 1 song of 2022, just for fun.

Four wins in a row heading into Leagues Cup – not too shabby. Charlotte FC is on a hot streak after a 2-0 win over Toronto FC. But is the Crown really back, or has it benefitted from the quality (or lack thereof) of the teams on the schedule?

David Gusler is joined by good friends of the show Russell Varner and Vaughn Pollman to discuss this run of form, plus:

• Zaha's recent form.
• Toklomati's potential.
• The summer transfer window rumors and hopes.
• And they answer listener questions.

---

We've started doing a special preview episode each week as well! ⁠⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Charlotte FC and a few thousand of their closest fans made the short drive down I-85 to take on Atlanta United Saturday. And, despite an incredibly slow start and shaky first half, the Crown did as it often does and turned that stadium into a library.

Charlotte FC won 3-2, winning its third match in a row during this important stretch before Leagues Cup. Matt Swift and Corey Inscoe break down the match and also discuss:

• How the same defensive issue led to both ATL goals.
• The beautiful link-up play between Zaha and Pep.
• The debut of the Lightnin' kit against D.C. United (we have some thoughts on that collar).
• And we answer your listener questions as we get ready for the summer transfer window.

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We've started doing a special preview episode each week as well! ⁠⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

It wasn't always pretty, but the Crown got it done. Charlotte FC kept a clean sheet (somehow) and got a badly needed home win over New York City FC 2-0. Matt and Corey break down the match, then discuss some other big news:

• A big match coming to Charlotte next summer.
• Wednesday's kit release.
• Goodbye, Pat.

And we answer your questions!

---

We've started doing a special preview episode each week as well! ⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Charlotte FC finally returned home Saturday to play Orlando City at the Bank. A game that started with so much promise and a two-goal lead ended with a defensive collapse and only a point for the Crown.

Matt, David and Corey return this week to discuss:

• The problems at right back.
• Bill Tuiloma's strong performance.
• The ... interesting ... substitutions.
• The roster decisions that got us to this place.
• And we answer some listener questions.

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We've started doing a special preview episode each week as well! ⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks to get access to that and to our exclusive Discord channel, which we pull listener questions from.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Not with a bang, but with a whimper.

Charlotte FC wrapped up its brutal five-game road trip with two equally brutal performances against Sporting KC and Chicago Fire. Matt, David and Corey are back this week to talk about those two matches, what's gone wrong over the past 10 games, and where the team goes from here.

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⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to our exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

After a week off, Charlotte FC heads up to Philadelphia to take on top-of-the-East Union Saturday. Which means its time to bring on great friend of the show and Union beat reporter José Nuñez!

José joined David and a late-arriving Corey to discuss:

• The Union's performance so far.
• His perspective on Charlotte's season from the outside.
• Why he didn't like the Zaha signing.
• His feelings on the Club World Cup.
• And what Charlotte needs to do to grab three points Saturday.

You can find José on Twitter @JoserNunez91, read his Substack here – nunezj.substack.com – and find his writing on mlssoccer.com. He's a must-follow for any MLS fan.

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Charlotte FC got a much-needed road win in Toronto, playing one of the best matches of the entire season. David and Corey are here to talk about it. Topics include:

• Can we keep this up?
• Is this the defensive lineup we need to keep going forward?
• When does Kahlina return after getting benched for Bingham?
• The attack is finally clicking.
• Summer transfer rumors.
• And beach music.

Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to our exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

If we recorded this one on Tuesday, the tone would be very different. Charlotte FC looked great in a home win over Columbus Crew Saturday, but followed that with a disappointing performance in New Jersey Wednesday.

David, Matt and Corey are back together to discuss the matches. Topics include:

• What's actually going wrong with the defense.
• Refereeing and VAR.
• Expectations for the rest of this road trip.
• Beer showers.
• Roller coasters.

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Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to our exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Lie down, close your eyes (unless you're driving) and take a deep breath in ... hold it ... and breathe out ...

We'll get through this together. Charlotte FC lost two more matches – Saturday at home against Chicago in one of the worst home performances in club history and Wednesday on the road at D.C. United in the U.S. Open Cup. David and Corey are here to try to talk you through it and search for any positives we can find in this horrible run of form.

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This episode is sponsored by MANSCAPED. Grab The Chairman™ Pro for 15% OFF with code "corndog" at Manscaped.com!

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Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to our exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

The whole gang is back together, and we sure wish it was under better circumstances. Since we last published, Charlotte FC lost two away matches against Nashville Saturday and Orlando Wednesday. That's now four straight MLS losses for the Crown.

In addition to answering your questions, we asked:

• Why are we meddling with the defensive strategy?
• Is it time to panic?
• What kind of team-building exercises should CLTFC do to help right the ship?
• And more ...

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Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to our exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Charlotte FC has been busy since our last show, losing on the road to Columbus Crew 4-2 and winning a while extra time battle with in-state rival North Carolina FC in the U.S. Open Cup. David is here – all by himself! – to break it all down and answer your questions. Questions like:

• Was the Columbus Crew loss as bad as it looked?
• Is our depth so bad that one or two injuries can tank us?
• If you were able to put one player on a live mic through the whole match, who would it be?

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This episode is sponsored by MANSCAPED. Get The Dome Shaver Plus and 15% OFF with code “corndog” at Manscaped.com! #ManscapedPartner

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⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to our exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

That's one way to break a home winning streak. Charlotte FC fell to New England Revolution 1-0 in a frustrating and messy match.

David and Corey get together this week to discuss:

• Was it a bad match for Charlotte FC? Or bad luck?
• What is offsides, really?
• Referees in general. This one in particular.
• Zaha's Snapchat.
• Everyone gets a fine!
• And we answer your questions.

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Visit manscaped.com/tcs to learn more about how to check yourself, or make a donation to @tcsociety today to save lives (and balls!)

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⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to our exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Not many people know Charlotte FC better than Eric Krakauer. He's been with the club since the beginning, serving as the Crown's play-by-play commentator during its inaugural season, and he's stayed close with the players, coaches and front office ever since.

So he's the perfect person to bring on for our 150th show as we explore the evolution of Charlotte FC from expansion team to the No. 1 team in the East.

In a fun, wide-ranging conversation, Eric, Matt and David discuss:

• What has made this year's team so successful compared to previous seasons.
• Eric's thoughts on players like Pep Biel, Wilfried Zaha and Liel Abada.
• What Charlotte needs to get out of the tough away stretch coming up.
• What Eric loves about living in Charlotte.

Last time we had Eric on (nearly 100 episodes ago!) it was a loud night at Salud (remember those?). The audio quality is much better this time, we promise.

---

⁠⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to an exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Charlotte FC earned an improbable 2-1 win over Nashville SC at Bank of America Stadium Saturday. And there's plenty to talk about:

• That ... unusual starting XI.
• Seriously though, what was with that lineup?
• Privett and Malanda's special connection.
• Zimmerman's horrific injury.
• Zaha taking the match by the horns.
• Toklomati's unreal, game-winning goal.

Matt and Corey are here to break down it all and answer your questions!

--

⁠Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to an exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

--

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Visit https://manscaped.com/tcs to learn more about how to check yourself, or make a donation to Testicular Cancer Society today to save lives (and balls!).

The road woes continue for Charlotte FC, as the Crown fell 2-0 to Colorado Rapids over the weekend. Matt Swift and Corey Inscoe use your listener questions to guide the conversation as we discuss:

• Why Charlotte FC hasn't performed as well away from home.
• The subs against Colorado.
• The issues with the back line against Colorado.
• What's going on with Abada.

If you want to continue discussing all this and more with us, make sure you join our Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to our exclusive Discord.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

Charlotte FC General Manager Zoran Krneta joined us this week for a very special episode! In this wide-ranging conversation, we discuss:

• Zoran's appearance in MLS' "Onside" show.
• Zaha coming to Charlotte.
• Pep Biel's performance and return to the club.
• The LB position.
• Patrick Agyemang's call up to the USMNT.
• The season so far.
• And what rule change he'd love to see in MLS.

Our friends in the Mint City Soccer Show Discord heard it first that we were going to have Zoran on and had a chance to send us questions to ask on the show. Want to join that group? Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to an exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

This episode was sponsored by our friends and Manscaped. Get MANSCAPED’s Full Power Shave Portfolio for 20% OFF + Free International Shipping with code corndog at Manscaped.com! #ManscapedPartner

What a win for the Queen City. Charlotte FC debuted the Fortress kit at home and used two quick second-half goals to take down FC Cincinnati. The goals couldn't have come at a better time for Patrick Agyemang and Liel Abada.

David Gusler and special guest Matt Chantry discuss all of that, then look ahead to Saturday's match against San Jose in which we'll be missing several players for the international break. Finally, we take your listener questions!

Also, we've launched a new way you can connect with the show!⁠⁠⁠ Support us on Patreon⁠⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to an exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

We know you're probably trying to forget Sunday's match, but we still need to talk about it. Charlotte FC traveled to play Inter Miami. Messi didn't play. Miami got a red card in the first half. And somehow The Crown still lost 1-0.

We try to pull some bright spots out of a tough result and discuss what else we've learned about this team three matches into the season. Then we dive into your questions and talk about Big Pat's big news.

And our friends at Manscaped are back! Get The Handyman Rocketman for 20% OFF + Free International Shipping with code “corndog” at Manscaped.com! #ManscapedPartner

That's how you do a home opener. Charlotte FC beat Atlanta United 2-0 in Bank of America Stadium and Wilfried Zaha scored his first goal for The Crown. Matt Swift and David Gusler break down the match and talk about the differences they saw this week compared to the lackluster performance in Seattle.

It wasn't pretty, but Charlotte FC earned a point against the Sounders on a rainy night in Seattle. Matt Swift and Corey Inscoe are joined by special guest Russell Varner to discuss the bright spots from the match – like Malanda rising like a salmon for a corner kick goal – and also any worries we have about the team after the performance.

We also see where Own Goal ranks on the list of all-time goal scorers for the crown and answer your listener questions.

Also, we've launched a new way you can connect with the show!⁠⁠ Support us on Patreon⁠⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to an exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:⁠ https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

MLS soccer is back! The 2025 Charlotte FC season kicks off this Saturday in Seattle. Matt Swift and David Gusler are joined by Vaughn Pollman to discuss all that we learned during the preseason, predict how the Crown will fare this year and look specifically at Saturday's match at Seattle Sounders.

Stay tuned to the end as we answer all your listener questions!

The whole gang is back together to talk about Charlotte FC's preseason matches against LA Galaxy and Phoenix Rising, the recently announced Leagues Cup schedule and Wednesday's Kit Reveal party. We also take your questions about the roster as we get closer to the start of the season.

Also, we've launched a new way you can connect with the show!⁠Support us on Patreon⁠ for just a few bucks and get access to an exclusive Discord channel.

Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

As the preseason rolls on, David and Corey return this week to recap a match against North Carolina FC, preview Charlotte FC's trip to Coachella, discuss the breaking news about Charlotte FC stopping the search for a Chief Business Officer and look at the Crown's options at LB/RB with Joao Pedro leaving on loan.

Also, we've launched a new way you can connect with the show! Support us on Patreon for just a few bucks and get access to an exclusive Discord channel for fans of the show! Listen to the episode for more!

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MintCitySoccerShow

In the first episode of the New Year, David and Corey recap Charlotte FC's exciting offseason player moves, discuss at how the Crown looks in preseason matches, reflect on Patrick Agyemang's glorious winter and share opinions on the leaked new CLTFC kit.

We're back for the final episode of 2024 and we have some feelings about the front office moves we've seen from Tepper Sports & Entertainment the past few weeks. Specifically, how these changes affect Charlotte FC and what they may say about the focus of the organization.

Agree? Disagree? We want to hear from you. Hit us up in the comments or on social!

And we hope everyone has a Happy New Year! We'll see you in 2025.

This episode is sponsored by our friends at Manscaped! Get 20% OFF + Free Shipping with promo code corndog at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MANSCAPED.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

The 2025 Charlotte FC and MLS schedule came out this week, so Matt and Corey took a look at the road ahead for the Crown. We break down some of the bigger matches, interesting away days and an especially difficult stretch of road games in the middle of the season.

And we answer a listener question about egg nog.

You can see the full Charlotte FC schedule here.

This episode is sponsored by our friends at Manscaped! Get 20% OFF + Free Shipping with promo code corndog at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MANSCAPED.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!