Get to know the matchup in Keys to the Game, presented by Honda:
Red Bulls Reborn
For over 90 minutes in Nashville on Decision Day, it was looking like the Red Bulls were going to miss out on the playoffs for the first time in 14 MLS seasons.
A penalty kick from homegrown John Tolkin changed all that.
Now, the Red Bulls have new life and are heading into the postseason on the back of three straight victories and four in their last five matches.
The Red Bulls are hitting their stride and have been playing like a team with nothing to lose. That might be crucial heading into Wednesday’s match.
First Time for Everything
This will be Charlotte FC’s first MLS postseason appearance in their club’s short history.
After barely missing out on the playoffs in their inaugural season, a 1-0 decision day victory against Inter Miami CF saw Charlotte secure a spot in the 2023 playoffs.
Charlotte is undefeated in their last four matches and is riding a wave of momentum heading into the postseason, but so are the Red Bulls. Will playoff experience make a difference on Wednesday night at Red Bull Arena?
Look for Luqui
When the team has needed him most, Luquinhas has provided a spark for the Red Bulls offense.
The Brazilian midfielder has two goals and three assists in his last five matches. He also drew the crucial second half stoppage time penalty that John Tolkin slotted home to put the Red Bulls into the postseason.
Against a Charlotte team that has allowed 52 goals in regular season play, look for Luquinhas to provide the spark again in the wild card matchup.
