This is becoming a recurring theme for CF Montreal, but the inability to win away at the Stade Saputo is a thorn in their side.
Visiting Charlotte, a team who haven’t won in their last four games, is a great opportunity to make amends. Montreal’s record (1-8-1) in opposition places is difficult to explain after their successes in such situations last year.
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The Bleu-Blanc-Noir defeated Minnesota and Nashville 4-0 and 1-0 in their last two games at home. Bryce Duke believes it will be necessary to draw inspiration from this.
“We have to play the same way. I know away games are difficult and you have to get used to a different atmosphere. The game plan changes a bit. “We have to stay calm, stick to our plan and if we score quickly it can give us more leeway,” said the midfielder at a press conference on Thursday.
Do it for the donuts
Head coach Hernan Losada is trying to get the same message across. The self-confidence gained in the last few weeks must be used above all against a direct opponent in the table.
Montreal has two points more than Charlotte FC in the Eastern Conference. Their home stadium, Bank of America Stadium, isn’t particularly friendly either, with its artificial turf and hordes of hostile spectators.
After Wednesday’s win and the planned trip, Mason Toye admitted he and his teammates were less energetic. However, an enticing reward can serve as motivation.
“The boys are a bit tired, we need to recover quickly for Saturday. “It was another great home win, another shutout,” he said of the win over Nashville SC. Every shutout we get donuts. It’s always nice to come with donuts in the morning.”
A jigsaw puzzle
One position will stand out in Losada’s starting XI on Saturday: that of right-back. Aaron Herrera (Guatemala) and Zachary Brault-Guillard (Canada) are in the national selection and Lassi Lappalainen remains injured.
Mathieu Choinière could return to this position, which he has held several times in recent years.
“He is a player who has played in this position before. We will see. I think it’s a shame because I like his work in midfield. We’re in a somewhat special situation now,” the Argentinian coach said in amazement.
After returning to Quebec, CF Montreal will play back-to-back games at the Stade Saputo, against New York City FC on July 1 and against Atlanta United the following Saturday.