Brandon Cambridge Charlotte FC Forward: Profile, Stats, and Impact on the Team
Brandon Cambridge is on the rise as a forward for Charlotte FC in Major League Soccer. He’s a young gun with serious wheels and a relentless engine out wide.
Charlotte FC picked up Cambridge after acquiring his homegrown rights from the Vancouver Whitecaps in late 2022. That move gave the squad a fresh attacking spark as they keep building for the future.
In 2024, Cambridge stepped onto the pitch five times as a sub for Charlotte’s First Team. He also chipped in with Crown Legacy FC, knocking in two goals in just four matches.
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At only 23, he’s starting to get a rep for making something happen whenever he gets a shot. Want the latest on his games and career? Check out the Charlotte FC official player page or find him on Wikipedia.
Here’s a quick look at his recent stats:
Year | Club | Appearances | Goals |
---|---|---|---|
2024 | Charlotte FC | 5 | 0 |
2024 | Crown Legacy FC | 4 | 2 |
Contents
- 1 Brandon Cambridge: Player Profile
- 2 Charlotte FC: The Current Club
- 3 MLS Career Highlights
- 4 Goals, Assists, and Statistics
- 5 Collegiate Career and University of Portland
- 6 Development and Youth Pathway
- 7 Transfer, Contract, and Market Value
- 8 Notable Matches and Rivals
- 9 Team Contributions and Playing Style
- 10 Injuries and Fitness
Brandon Cambridge: Player Profile
Brandon Cambridge brings a pretty versatile skill set and a cool international background to Charlotte FC. He’s got technical chops and moves well off the ball, making him a real asset up front.
Date of Birth & Place of Birth
Brandon Cambridge was born on February 9, 2002, in Brooklyn, New York. Just a month later, his family packed up and moved to Cape Town, South Africa.
His early years? Lots of moves. He bounced from South Africa to Florida at age nine, then on to Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan at ten, and finally landed in Chilliwack, British Columbia a year after that.
All that moving around gave him a unique view of the game. He picked up influences from both North America and Africa.
Not many pros can say they developed in so many different soccer cultures. Cambridge’s background shaped not just his style, but also how he handles life on and off the pitch.
Height & Physical Attributes
He stands 5-foot-10 (178 cm). That’s a good size for someone who needs both speed and strength out wide.
Cambridge’s athletic build lets him work the flanks, pressing defenders with a mix of pace and balance. His low center of gravity helps with sharp turns and sudden sprints.
He’s not the tallest guy, but he doesn’t need to be. His frame fits the modern winger role just fine.
Stamina? He’s got it. You’ll see him pressing high or hustling back on defense, always putting in the work.
Citizenship & Nationality
Cambridge’s got quite the blend when it comes to nationality. He was born in the United States, so he’s American.
But he did a lot of his growing up and soccer learning in Canada, especially in British Columbia. For football purposes, he’s recognized as Canadian.
Both his parents come from South Africa, adding another layer to his background. Even though he’s mostly linked to Canadian soccer, he’s got eligibility options.
That mix—American by birth, Canadian by development, South African roots—makes him stand out and definitely shapes how he plays the game.
Main Position and Playing Roles
Cambridge usually lines up as a right winger. That’s where his speed and technical ability really shine.
For Charlotte FC, he often comes off the bench, bringing a burst of energy and creativity. He’s flexible too—he can slot into right midfield or central midfield if the team needs it.
Position Table:
Position | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
---|---|---|---|
Right Winger | Majority | Yes | Yes |
Right Midfield | Occasional | — | — |
Central Midfield | Occasional | — | — |
Coaches value his ability to play all across the attack, but he’s most dangerous on the right. There, he can cut inside or whip in crosses.
His tactical flexibility gives Charlotte FC options, especially if they want to change things up on the fly. If you want more on his club and stats, check the Charlotte FC profile.
Charlotte FC: The Current Club
Brandon Cambridge suits up for Charlotte FC, one of Major League Soccer’s newer clubs. Since joining, he’s made an impact both with the first team and with Crown Legacy FC, their MLS NEXT Pro affiliate.
Signing and Contract Details
Charlotte FC signed Cambridge on December 21, 2022, after working out a deal with the Vancouver Whitecaps for his homegrown rights. The deal included General Allocation Money.
His contract runs through the 2024 season. The club holds option years for 2025 and possibly 2026, so they can decide if they want to keep him around.
He signed his most recent extension in November 2024. Cambridge is a homegrown player, and his contract follows standard MLS terms with a club option.
There’s no public info about a sell-on fee or extra clauses. For more on the signing, check out the Charlotte FC player profile.
Squad and Teammates
Charlotte FC puts together a competitive squad every year, mixing international players with homegrown prospects. Cambridge mainly plays as a right winger or forward, usually coming off the bench.
The roster has experienced players and younger guys working their way up through Crown Legacy FC. The depth chart changes with injuries and form, but Cambridge has earned his minutes with steady performances.
In 2024, he made five appearances for the first team and scored twice for Crown Legacy FC. Here’s a simple look at those numbers:
Season | Club | Appearances | Goals |
---|---|---|---|
2024 | Charlotte FC | 5 | 0 |
2024 | Crown Legacy FC | 4 | 2 |
Head Coach Christian Lattanzio
Christian Lattanzio leads Charlotte FC as head coach. He’s focused on tactical discipline and helping players develop.
Lattanzio gives young players like Cambridge chances with both the main squad and the reserves. He rotates talent as needed and keeps things flexible.
His coaching style blends structure with adaptability. Lattanzio works closely with forwards and wingers, helping them adjust their positioning and build depth.
Under his leadership, Cambridge has gotten the chance to show what he can do in real matches.
MLS Career Highlights
Brandon Cambridge’s run with Charlotte FC already has some memorable moments. He’s made an impression with key performances and earned league honors.
MLS Debut and Professional Debut
Cambridge made his pro debut for Charlotte FC after getting the nod at the start of the season. He first set foot in an MLS match as a sub.
That game marked his jump from a strong college career at the University of Portland to the big time in the U.S.
He adjusted quickly, showing confidence and sharp decision-making right from the start. Coaches noticed how ready he was to take on MLS defenders.
His debut kicked off a new chapter, and there was a real sense he could take his game up a notch. He faced the league’s pace and physicality head-on and gave fans a glimpse of what Charlotte FC hoped he’d bring.
Notable Matches and Performances
One of Cambridge’s early highlights came against Chicago Fire FC on May 17. He entered the game in the 59th minute and scored both the equalizer and the game-winner, flipping the match on its head.
That performance showed he could deliver in big moments. In just his fourth MLS appearance, he displayed poise in front of goal.
His movement and finishing stood out. That night against Chicago Fire FC is one fans won’t forget any time soon.
Analysts and supporters saw his confidence growing. Cambridge made a case for himself as a reliable option off the bench, unafraid of the MLS spotlight.
MLS Player of the Matchday Achievements
Cambridge’s heroics against Chicago Fire FC earned him MLS Player of the Matchday for Matchday 13. Scoring twice in a short span, he became the difference-maker for Charlotte FC.
That award doesn’t come easy, especially for newcomers. It’s reserved for players who really change a game.
Here’s a quick table:
Matchday | Opponent | Goals Scored | Minutes Played | Result | Award |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
13 | Chicago Fire | 2 | ~30 | 2-1 Win | MLS Player of the Matchday |
His showing helped boost Charlotte FC’s momentum and highlighted the value of having quality depth on the bench.
Team of the Matchday Selections
Cambridge’s impact in big games also landed him a spot in the MLS Team of the Matchday. That’s for players judged to be the best at their position for the week.
Selection is based on stats and overall influence on the game. For Cambridge, his goals, movement, and tactical awareness got him noticed.
Getting picked for Team of the Matchday raises a player’s profile. It shows he’s a key contributor and someone to watch as the season rolls on.
You can find more on his achievements at the Charlotte FC official player page or check out his MLS highlights.
Goals, Assists, and Statistics
Brandon Cambridge came to Charlotte FC aiming to make his mark as a forward. He’s chipped in with goals, assists, and has improved his all-around game each year.
MLS Regular Season Performance
In the MLS regular season, Cambridge has started to build a solid foundation as a forward. He’s got tactical smarts and technical skill.
During his rookie year in 2023, he played in 13 league games, all as a sub. He gradually earned more minutes, showing he could be a flexible attacking piece for Charlotte FC.
By 2024, you’d see him in five matches off the bench for the First Team. The numbers might look modest, but those consistent minutes in real games gave him experience and a feel for the MLS tempo.
He also spent time with Crown Legacy FC, getting on the scoresheet and showing he can adapt and grow.
Goals and Braces
Cambridge really burst onto the scene with a knack for sniffing out goals. He hasn’t bagged a brace at the MLS level yet, but he did find the net twice for Crown Legacy FC in only four outings—pretty impressive for a young striker just getting started.
His lone MLS goal? That one came in a big moment, showing he can step up when it matters most.
You can see the pattern—he’s hungry to score, always looking to improve. Sure, the sample size is a bit small right now, but you get the sense that more multi-goal games are coming as he settles in with the league and his teammates.
Want the nitty-gritty stats? Check out FBref’s player page.
Assists and Scores
Cambridge isn’t just about scoring. He chipped in an assist with Crown Legacy FC in 2024, matching his early goal numbers and showing some real awareness in the final third.
His assist count in MLS is still catching up, but you can see his creativity when he links up play or pops up in different spots to finish chances.
He’s got a knack for finding teammates in dangerous areas. As a forward, he looks to help the team flow instead of chasing stats, and that attitude is starting to pay off, especially in the lower leagues.
Comprehensive Player Data
If you look at Cambridge’s pro stats, you’ll see a player on the rise. Here’s a quick look at his numbers for Charlotte FC and Crown Legacy FC:
Team | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
---|---|---|---|
Charlotte FC | 18 | 1 | 0 |
Crown Legacy FC | 4 | 2 | 1 |
He’s getting more minutes every year, and that’s a good sign for both coaches and fans. For more in-depth stats, player logs, or historical data, check out MLSsoccer.com and Transfermarkt.
Collegiate Career and University of Portland
Brandon Cambridge spent three seasons at the University of Portland, where he really grew into a standout college soccer player. His consistent play and the honors he picked up paved the way for a shot at the pros.
Achievements at University of Portland
Cambridge jumped right in with the Pilots, barely missing a game during his three years. He played 45 times and knocked in 17 goals, making him one of the team’s top threats.
His stats popped in the West Coast Conference. He also handed out plenty of assists, proving he could both finish and create. He played big minutes in the postseason and helped drive Portland’s deep 2022 NCAA Tournament run.
Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
---|---|---|---|
2020 | 13 | 3 | 1 |
2021 | 18 | 7 | 5 |
2022 | 14 | 7 | 4 |
Total | 45 | 17 | 10 |
He played a big part in the team’s best season since 1995, helping Portland reach the NCAA Tournament quarterfinals—a rare feat in the program’s history as the University of Portland athletics site notes.
Role as WCC Offensive Player of the Year
In 2022, Cambridge earned the West Coast Conference Offensive Player of the Year. That’s a big deal for any college player.
He led the conference in goals and was the main attacking threat all season. Opposing coaches often tweaked their lineups just to try and slow him down.
This recognition put him on the radar for MLS scouts and locked him in as one of the top college players in the country according to Wikipedia.
College Soccer Transition to Professional
After his run at Portland, Cambridge started prepping for the pro jump. By late 2022, his name was popping up with MLS teams, especially Charlotte FC.
He signed with Charlotte after a deal with the Vancouver Whitecaps, who held his homegrown rights. His college success and ability to shine in big matches helped smooth the transition as TopBin90 reports.
At Portland, Cambridge built a well-rounded game—good vision, solid finishing—that made the leap from NCAA to MLS a bit easier. His story really shows how college soccer can launch a pro career.
Development and Youth Pathway
Cambridge’s early years were all about moving and growing in North America’s top soccer setups. His time in academies, exclusive scouting zones, and tough leagues helped shape him as a forward.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC Affiliation
After moving to British Columbia as a kid, Cambridge joined the Vancouver Whitecaps FC academy. The Whitecaps have a reputation for turning out talent, and Cambridge spent his teens there, sharpening his technical skills and soccer IQ.
He faced tough competition and played regular matches against other top academies in Canada and the U.S. That kind of experience set a solid foundation. The Whitecaps pride themselves on prepping players for higher levels, and Cambridge’s time there set the tone for what came next.
Season | Age | Club/Academy | Appearances | Goals |
---|---|---|---|---|
2015 | 13 | Vancouver Whitecaps FC | N/A | N/A |
2016 | 14 | Vancouver Whitecaps FC | N/A | N/A |
2017 | 15 | Vancouver Whitecaps FC | N/A | N/A |
Homegrown Territory Exclusivity
Like other MLS clubs, the Whitecaps use homegrown territory exclusivity. That means they can claim local youth players for their academy and have first dibs on offering pro contracts.
Cambridge’s years in British Columbia put him in this system, so Vancouver got the first shot at signing him to an MLS deal.
For homegrown players, this setup creates early paths to the pros, but it also limits players from joining other MLS academies unless there’s a trade or agreement. Cambridge’s homegrown rights became a key factor as he moved closer to first team soccer, eventually helping facilitate his trade and signing with Charlotte FC.
MLS Next Pro Experience
MLS Next Pro is a pretty important bridge between academy soccer and the MLS first teams. Cambridge played at this level, getting into tough matches designed for up-and-comers.
He got to test himself against faster, stronger opponents, and that helped him sharpen his game for the pro level. Coaches watched closely, giving feedback and picking out who was ready to move up.
Cambridge’s time in MLS Next Pro kept him moving toward a first team spot.
MLS Next Pro Stats | Matches | Goals | Assists |
---|---|---|---|
Appearances with Crown Legacy FC | 4 | 2 | N/A |
Transition to Crown Legacy FC
After MLS Next Pro, Cambridge headed to Crown Legacy FC, Charlotte FC’s second squad. He split time between the First Team and Crown Legacy, picking up valuable minutes and working on his attacking game.
He made five appearances off the bench for Charlotte’s main squad and four with Crown Legacy, scoring twice for Crown Legacy.
Crown Legacy FC is a big part of Charlotte’s development pipeline, giving young players real matches to stay sharp. Cambridge used this to stay fit and try out different roles, gaining confidence in the process.
Transfer, Contract, and Market Value
Cambridge’s move to Charlotte FC got some attention because of how the deal worked. His market value, contract details, and who represents him all shed some light on how MLS teams do business these days.
General Allocation Money Deals
Charlotte FC picked up Cambridge by getting his Homegrown Player rights from Vancouver Whitecaps. The deal used General Allocation Money, or GAM—Charlotte sent $50,000 in GAM to Vancouver in 2023.
That’s a pretty standard move in MLS when teams trade player rights. The deal gave both teams some flexibility, and GAM helps clubs stick to salary cap rules while bringing in new talent.
Homegrown Territory Exclusivity was part of it, so Charlotte locked down Cambridge’s MLS rights. These kinds of trades show how MLS operates differently from European leagues. The GAM system lets teams manage their rosters and move players without breaking the bank.
For more on how this deal worked, check out Transfermarkt’s Brandon Cambridge profile.
Transfermarkt Profile and Value
You can find all the contract details on Cambridge’s Transfermarkt page. As of mid-2025, his market value sits at €200,000, which lines up with his age and potential as an attacking option for Charlotte FC.
His contract runs through December 31, 2025, with the club holding an option for another year. That’s pretty common for young players, giving teams a chance to keep them if they really break out.
Here’s a quick look at his main contract and performance numbers:
Detail | Data |
---|---|
Club | Charlotte FC |
Age | 23 |
Contract Until | Dec 31, 2025 (option 2026) |
Market Value | €200,000 |
For his full appearance and transfer history, see his Transfermarkt profile.
Player Agent and Management
Player reps play a big role in MLS. A lot of young players in North America sign with agencies like CAA Stellar, but there’s no public info on who’s managing Cambridge right now.
Agents usually handle negotiations for things like General Allocation Money, contract extensions, and future transfers. Good management helps players like Cambridge get the right deals and career advice.
Having a pro in your corner is huge, especially early on when you’re learning league rules and thinking about moves abroad. Cambridge’s agent details aren’t really out there, but it’s still a key part of his career going forward.
Notable Matches and Rivals
Cambridge has already turned heads in some big games for Charlotte FC. His performances against rivals and in cup matches show his growth and determination.
Chicago Fire FC Encounters
He’s faced Chicago Fire FC in a handful of important clashes. These games get heated, with both sides bringing serious energy.
Cambridge often comes off the bench and gives Charlotte’s attack a jolt, even if he doesn’t always get on the scoresheet.
He creates chances by finding space on the right wing and pressing defenders hard. Against Chicago’s physical back line, his quickness and movement really stand out.
He brings a direct threat, drawing fouls and setting up dangerous crosses. His work rate is tough to miss, especially when he hustles back on defense, making him a reliable option in these rivalry matchups.
Rivalry Week Highlights
Rivalry Week always cranks up the pressure for Charlotte FC and Brandon Cambridge. When they face clubs like Nashville SC or New England Revolution, you can feel the intensity on the pitch and in the stands.
Cambridge heads into these games with a laser focus. He knows the extra motivation these matchups demand.
One Rivalry Week game that stands out? Cambridge jumped in late against Nashville SC and brought a real spark. He pressed hard, forced turnovers, and pushed Charlotte FC’s attack forward.
Sometimes he starts on the bench, but coaches trust him to add pace and intensity when things need a jolt. They lean on his discipline and his drive to follow tactical plans, especially in these emotional, high-stakes moments.
During Rivalry Week, teammates and coaches really notice Cambridge’s competitive fire. It’s the kind of edge you want.
Notable Opponent Performances
Cambridge has shown he’s ready for big moments against top MLS opponents. Facing teams like New England Revolution and Real Salt Lake, he’s been both creative and calm under pressure.
Against Real Salt Lake, he made quick passes in midfield and found ways to move the ball forward, even when defenders closed in. In matches against FC Cincinnati 2 and Columbus Crew 2—often in MLS NEXT Pro or split-squad settings—he’s sharpened his scoring touch.
He’s found the net in these games, including two goals for Crown Legacy FC. You can check out his numbers on his club profile.
These games keep him sharp and ready for first-team minutes. Cambridge’s ability to play right wing or forward gives Charlotte FC’s coaches more options.
Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup Matches
Cup competitions always bring something different. They let players like Cambridge prove themselves under real pressure.
In the Leagues Cup and U.S. Open Cup, coaches rotate the lineup, so squad depth matters. Cambridge gets the nod in these squads, showing the club trusts what he brings.
He’s played in both tournaments, bringing hustle and energy whether he starts or comes off the bench. Even when he doesn’t score, his smart runs and willingness to challenge defenders open up space for teammates.
He draws fouls, stretches defenses, and helps create chances.
Table: Brandon Cambridge’s 2024 Cup Performance
Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
---|---|---|---|---|
U.S. Open Cup | 2 | 0 | 1 | 99 |
Leagues Cup | 1 | 0 | 0 | 37 |
MLS NEXT Pro | 4 | 2 | 0 | 265 |
Knockout games like these help Cambridge build confidence and round out his game inside Charlotte FC’s system.
Team Contributions and Playing Style
Brandon Cambridge has become a real asset for Charlotte FC. He brings depth up front and fits well into the team’s style.
His play shows off scoring instincts and smart movement. That’s the kind of thing that helps Charlotte FC push forward in the Eastern Conference.
Role in Attack
Cambridge usually lines up as a right winger, but he can slide into the forward line when Charlotte FC need a creative spark. More often than not, he comes off the bench and brings a burst of energy in the second half.
He likes to cut inside and link up with central attackers, which helps break down tight defenses.
He’s got a knack for finding scoring positions. Here’s a quick look at his 2024 stats:
Stat | Value |
---|---|
MLS Appearances | 5 (as sub) |
Goals (First Team) | 0 |
Crown Legacy FC Games | 4 |
Goals (Crown Legacy FC) | 2 |
Cambridge isn’t shy about taking on defenders one-on-one. He’ll get shots off when the team needs a different look in attack.
Tactical Contributions
Cambridge’s game stands out for his awareness and flexibility. He follows instructions, holding wide when needed or tucking in to connect with midfielders.
This helps Charlotte FC switch between playing direct and keeping possession.
Off the ball, he presses high and tries to disrupt opposing back lines. That fits with the team’s plan to force turnovers and launch counterattacks.
He’ll track back too, covering defensively when the fullbacks push up.
His quick acceleration and pressing can flip momentum late in tight games. Coaches appreciate his discipline and his timing when making runs behind defenses.
Impact in Playoff Line and Eastern Conference
Charlotte FC is right in the thick of the playoff race, and Cambridge has made his mark in key moments. He’s performed for both the First Team and Crown Legacy FC, showing he’s ready to step up when called.
His MLS minutes have been limited, but those two goals for Crown Legacy FC show he can deliver. When he comes in as a sub, he gives the club a needed spark to chase points—crucial for teams battling near the playoff line.
In a crowded Eastern Conference, having a player like Cambridge who can change the tempo or bring creativity off the bench gives Charlotte FC a real edge. You can find more on his appearances and stats at his Charlotte FC player profile.
Injuries and Fitness
Brandon Cambridge has dealt with a few bumps along the way. He’s recovered from surgery and managed a recent muscle injury that’s affected his time on the pitch.
Coaches and fans keep a close eye on his recovery timeline, hoping to see him back to full strength soon.
Muscle Injury Updates
Alright, let’s talk about Brandon Cambridge and that thigh injury he picked up in early 2025. Word got out fast—both the team and independent sources called it a muscle problem.
He missed several weeks, and Charlotte FC definitely felt the hit in their attack. They expected him back in late March 2025, which meant the squad had to adjust early in the season.
Nobody shared the nitty-gritty details of his rehab, but folks confirmed he followed the usual recovery steps to get back on the field. If you’re looking for the latest scoop, check out these recent reports and keep tabs on Brandon Cambridge’s injury progress.
Recent Absences Due to Muscle Injury
Injury Type | Date | Estimated Return | Impact |
---|---|---|---|
Thigh/muscle | Early 2025 | Late March 2025 | Missed start of MLS regular season |