Orlando City beats Charlotte 2-0 in playoff opener
- Orlando City scored twice against Charlotte FC, setting the stage for their playoff advancement.
- Facundo Torres and Martin Ojeda were key players, contributing one goal each.
- Pedro Gallese's clean sheet highlights the strength of Orlando City's defense in the critical match.
On October 27, 2024, Orlando City secured a 2-0 victory over Charlotte FC in their first playoff match for the MLS Cup, which took place at home in Orlando, Florida. Facundo Torres opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a left-footed shot, marking his 19th goal of the season across all competitions. This season has been significant for Torres, establishing him as the club's all-time leading scorer. Martin Ojeda added a second goal in the 76th minute, assisting with help from Iván Angulo and César Araújo, marking Ojeda's first postseason goal in what was only his third appearance for the team. Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese contributed to the win by achieving his fourth postseason clean sheet, making two saves during the match. The victory is critical for Orlando City as they strive for advancement in the best-of-three series. The match was noted for its competitive nature, as Charlotte FC had previously finished the regular season strong, with a record of four wins and one draw in their last five matches. This playoff matchup is particularly important for both teams, with Charlotte FC seeking to progress beyond the wildcard round for the first time in its history. The second game in the series is set to resume on November 1, 2024, in Charlotte, adding tension and excitement to the ongoing rivalry and playoff format. Orlando City’s performance suggests a strong start to their postseason efforts, building momentum toward their Cup aspirations.