Bethlehem Steel’s final home match of 2019 comes as part of a double-header with Philadelphia Union on Sunday, October 6. Steel face off with Charlotte Independence beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET. Fans can check out an FAQ on how the two matches interact this weekend here.
Charlotte has been on a slide, winning only one of their last five, but that win points to the potential for a breakout from the visitors.
Strength
Recent win – The North Carolina club is 1-3-1 in their last five matches, including three straight losses before picking up a win in their last match against Hartford Athletic. Charlotte’s win over Hartford was a big 4-0 affair at home and should boost confidence moving into this weekend. They play a very open style of play that can get opposing teams moving side to side easily, so the Steel need to be careful about letting the Independence build on any momentum.
Weakness
Winless on the road – Charlotte has yet to win a game on the road all season. They hold an away record of 0-6-9 coming into this weekend’s match. They’ve pulled off nine draws on the road, but that zero at the front is a good sign for the Steel. On the other hand, it’s exceedingly rare to go winless on the road for an entire season, so Steel must be on the front foot from the outset and show they are ready to defend their turf. It’s also worth noting that Charlotte has already been eliminated from this year’s USL Championship Playoffs.
Players to watch
Dominic Oduro, F #7 – Oduro is a name that jumps off the page when you look at Charlotte’s roster and stats. He’s the club’s leading goalscorer in 2019, scoring seven goals from 30 appearances while providing two assists. Oduro had a storied career in Major League Soccer appearing for eight clubs over a twelve year stretch.
Enzo Martínez, F #19 – Another threat to goal for the Independence is Enzo Martínez. He shoots quick, leading the side in total shots with 60 and shots on goal with 25, but is also a key distributor in the attack. Martínez has tallied seven helpers on the year and created a team-leading 58 chances.
Alex Martínez, M #23 – Alex Martínez plays further back in the formation than his brother Enzo and is one of the leaders in a strong Independence midfield. He doesn’t take as many shots as Enzo or score as many goals, but he has created the second most chances of anyone on Charlotte’s team this year with 42. Both brothers are dangerous and the Steel will need to watch both to avoid getting punished.
Injuries/Suspensions
Kevan George - Suspended
Both Philadelphia Union and Bethlehem Steel FC are in action this weekend for a doubleheader at Talen Energy Stadium. The Union host New York City FC on Decision Day presented by AT&T at 4:00 p.m. ET, while the Steel host Charlotte Independence in their final regular-season home match of 2019 at 7:30 p.m. ET. Fans can check out an FAQ on how the two matches interact this weekend here.
