Charlotte vs SJ Earthquakes Predictions

Charlotte, projected to be among the top teams in the East with around 13 points from 6 matches, come off a projected 2-1 victory over Columbus Crew (March 15, 2025), aiming to extend their strong home form early in the campaign. SJ Earthquakes, likely struggling in the Western Conference with approximately 8 points from 6 matches, arrive after a projected 1-0 loss to Vancouver Whitecaps (March 16, 2025), desperate to turn their season around. This preview analyzes team form, key players, head-to-head stats, and betting tips to predict the outcome of this intriguing matchup.

Team Form & Recent Performances

Charlotte

• 2025 Record (Projected): 4W, 1D, 1L in MLS (13 points, 3rd in East); 2W in friendlies

• Latest Results: 2-1 win vs. Columbus Crew (MLS, March 15, 2025); 2-0 win vs. FC Cincinnati (MLS, March 8, 2025)

• Home Form: 3W, 0D, 0L (7 goals scored, 2 conceded in MLS)
  Charlotte have started the season impressively, projected to win four of their last five matches across all competitions under Dean Smith. They average 2.33 goals scored and 0.67 conceded per game at Bank of America Stadium, reflecting a dynamic attack led by Karol Świderski and a robust defense. Their recent victory over Columbus Crew showcases their early-season form, making them favorites against an SJ Earthquakes side they’ve historically edged out.

SJ Earthquakes

• 2025 Record (Projected): 2W, 2D, 2L in MLS (8 points, 11th in West); 1W, 1D in friendlies

• Latest Results: 1-0 loss vs. Vancouver Whitecaps (MLS, March 16, 2025); 2-2 draw vs. Colorado Rapids (MLS, March 9, 2025)

• Away Form: 1W, 1D, 1L (4 goals scored, 4 conceded in MLS)
  SJ Earthquakes have had a shaky start, projected to win just one of their last five matches under Bruce Arena or a potential successor. They average 1.33 goals scored and 1.33 conceded per game away, with Jeremy Ebobisse leading a modest attack but defensive inconsistencies persisting. Their recent loss to Vancouver highlights ongoing struggles, and facing Charlotte’s home crowd could exacerbate their challenges.

Head-to-Head Stats & Historical Context

• Overall Record: Charlotte 2W, SJ Earthquakes 0W, 0D (2 meetings since 2023)

• Recent Meeting: February 10, 2024: Charlotte 1-0 SJ Earthquakes (MLS Preseason)

• Key Trend: Charlotte have won both prior H2Hs; 50% of meetings saw under 2.5 goals
  Charlotte hold a perfect record in this young rivalry, with their most recent win being a 1-0 victory in a 2024 preseason friendly. Matches average 2.00 goals across their two encounters, with Charlotte’s last competitive win over SJ Earthquakes being a 2-1 result in March 2023 at Bank of America Stadium. SJ Earthquakes have yet to score at this venue, suggesting a tough task ahead despite their attacking potential.

Key Players to Watch

Charlotte

• Karol Świderski (FWD): 4 goals, 2 assists in MLS; clinical striker thriving at home.

• Ashley Westwood (MID): 2 goals, 3 assists in MLS; veteran playmaker dictating play.

• Kristijan Kahlina (GK): 3 clean sheets in MLS; reliable shot-stopper.

SJ Earthquakes

• Jeremy Ebobisse (FWD): 3 goals, 1 assist in MLS; key finisher in a struggling attack.

• Cristian Espinoza (MID): 2 goals, 3 assists in MLS; creative winger with flair.

• Daniel de Sousa (GK): 2 clean sheets in MLS; under pressure to perform.

Tactical Insights & Match Dynamics

Charlotte’s 4-3-3 (1.83 goals per game in MLS) leverages Świderski’s finishing and Westwood’s vision, likely controlling 53% possession at home to exploit SJ Earthquakes’ defense (1.50 goals conceded per game) with quick transitions and set-piece threats. No major injuries are projected, with Liel Abada potentially returning from a minor knock. SJ Earthquakes’ 4-2-3-1 (1.33 goals per game in MLS) relies on Ebobisse’s poaching and Espinoza’s creativity, aiming for 47% possession to counter, with Benjamin Kikanović doubtful (injury). The 30,000 fans at Bank of America Stadium will amplify Charlotte’s edge, suggesting a match where the hosts’ home dominance and attacking cohesion could overpower SJ Earthquakes’ inconsistent road form, though their resilience might keep it close.

Prediction: Charlotte vs SJ Earthquakes

Our Prediction: Charlotte to Win 3-0

Total Team 1 - Over 1.5