North Carolina FC heads to the Hoosier State tonight to face off against last-place Indy Eleven. NCFC are off to a good start in the Fall season, currently in second place with a bunch of draws. Indy is off to a rough start, similar to their Spring season, and sit in last place with only one win. The Eleven also have the worst home ranking this season, so far going 0–0–3 in three games.

Even though Indy still has two games in hand, they have only been able to get 4 points. August was not a kind month to the Eleven, their last win was on the 30th of July. They have allowed 15 goals in their last five matches… probably why they are in last.

Some good news for Indy is that they should be well-rested. Their last game was over 10 days ago, a 2–0 loss at home to San Francisco. Their last road game was the 19th of August, almost a month ago. Then again, considering that home record, playing at home might not be an advantage.

North Carolina FC meanwhile is on track to challenge for a playoff spot, even with their five draws in eight Fall games. NCFC and Indy both finished the Spring season with 21 goals, but NCFC has made some changes to get more attacking threat. Renan Gorne and Jonathan Glenn were both added to help provide more depth and scoring ability. The two have helped provide the team with the goals they need.

Players to Watch For

Nazmi Albadawi

Naz has started to find his groove again here recently with two goals in his last three matches. He is currently one of the league’s best midfielders and has a 83.2% passing accuracy. With Indy leading the league with the most goals conceded, expect Nazmi to find another one tonight.

Renan Gorne

The Brazilian has made a statement since coming to NASL a few weeks ago, scoring two goals and one assist in his first five matches. Expect Gorne to find his way down in the box easily tonight, should he get the start.

Eamon Zayed

Eamon Zayed currently leads Indy Eleven in goals and in assists this season, with three goals and one assist so far. If “Big Z” gets the ball deep in the box, Sylvestre will have a hard time keeping it out of the net.

(Photo Credit: Gloria Korlou)

Recent Form

North Carolina FC: L | D | D | D | W

Indy Eleven: L | L | D | L | L

Game Details

What: North Carolina FC vs. Indy Eleven (NASL Season)

Where: Michael A. Carroll Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana

When: Wednesday, September 13th, 7:00pm ET

Prediction Time

Even though Indy has one of the best crowds in the NASL, I don’t expect the crowd to be a factor in tonight’s game. Indy has managed to get only one point in their last five games, and they can’t win at home. Even though they have the ability to score goals, their defense has been holding them back.

North Carolina FC has been finding their groove and should expect a big night in Indianapolis. If NCFC can maintain possession in the midfield battles, then they should get the result that they want. Keep pressing the attack and the Eleven’s defense will fold. I expect NCFC to go up early, we’ll see if they can hang on for the win. Zack’s Prediction: 2–1 NCFC.