April 14, 2023 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – North Carolina FC News Release
CARY, N.C. – Coming off its 1-1 draw with Charlotte Independence in the Dogwood Derby, North Carolina FC hits the road for the first time in the league this season. Kickoff between Union Omaha and NCFC is set for Saturday, April 15, at 3:00 PM ET at Caniglia Field. You can watch the match, and all 2023 USL League One matches on ESPN+. You can also follow all of the action on North Carolina FC social platforms (@NorthCarolinaFC).
Scouting Union Omaha
Union Omaha is undefeated through its first three matches in all competitions in 2023. Omaha drew its league opener with Forward Madison 1-1, and has picked up two wins since then, defeating El Paso Locomotive in the U.S. Open Cup 2-0 and CV Fuego 2-0 on the road.
Omaha have lined up in two different formations in its first two league matches, lining up in a 4-4-2 against Madison and a 4-1-3-2 against CV Fuego. Omaha have been one of the most clinical teams in the league, producing three goals from just 25 touches in the opposition box and 19 shots. Despite averaging 48.1% possession, Omaha tends to progress play and build up int field in a possession and passing manner. Of its 897 passes, only 44.4% have come in the opposition half. Omaha do have the best dribble success rate in the league at 65%, but have only attempted 20 dribbles, 13 fewer than the next lowest in the league.
Players to Watch
North Carolina FC – Forward Oalex Anderson
Anderson scored the opening goal in NCFC’s 1-1 draw with Charlotte Independence, following up a blocked shot from Jaden Servania. Along with the goal, Anderson took four shots, had three touches in the box and completed two dribbles. His performance saw him named to the USL League One Team of the Week for the first time in 2023. Anderson has featured both on the wing and down the middle this season, using his pace to run behind the defensive line as well as be a constant pressing presence in defense.
Union Omaha – Goalkeeper Rashid Nuhu
Rashid Nuhu has established himself as one of the best players in USL League One. In three seasons with Union Omaha, Nuhu has won the Golden Glove twice and has been named to an All-League team twice. This season, Nuhu has saved five shots and only conceded one goal in two league matches. Prior to the start of the season, Union Omaha tied Nuhu down to a long-term contract extension.
Next Up
North Carolina FC returns home next Friday, April 21, at 7:00 PM ET to take…