Charlotte FC will attempt to avoid elimination in their inaugural MLS home playoff game when they host Orlando City in the second game of the best-of-three series on Friday at Bank of America Stadium. In this format, the team that wins two out of the three games advances to the next round. The Lions secured a 2-0 victory in the inaugural match at Inter & Co Stadium last weekend, thanks to a goal in each half. For the first occasion since mid-September, Charlotte could not score and was restricted to only two attempts on target. Dean Smith’s men are currently confronted with a circumstance in which they must secure a victory.
Charlotte’s offense has been a force to be reckoned with, especially during the final stages of the regular season. They clinched victories in their last three matches at Bank of America Stadium, scoring an impressive 10 goals. Despite being the joint lowest-scoring MLS side in the postseason this year, they have not lost consecutive MLS encounters since late August-mid-September. This recent offensive prowess should give Charlotte fans hope for a turnaround in the upcoming match.
In the initial match, Orlando City put on a show of exceptional performance, effectively disrupting Charlotte’s transitional game and exhibiting a high threat level. The Lions are on the brink of their second consecutive appearance in the Eastern Conference semi-finals, following their elimination of Nashville SC last year. Orlando has won three consecutive MLS away matches and scored three or more goals in three consecutive league contests as a visitor. Their recent form is certainly impressive and should not be underestimated.
Given these factors and Charlotte’s home field advantage, the odds are in Charlotte’s favor for this match. Charlotte is expected to engage in a highly competitive match as it attempts to maintain its playoff status. The home field advantage should provide a sense of reassurance to Charlotte fans, knowing that their team will have the support of the home crowd.