New York City FC secured a 1-0 victory over Charlotte FC in the opening round of the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. The match, played on a cold night in North Carolina, was decided by a first-half goal from Alonso Martínez.
Head Coach Pascal Jansen made one change to his starting lineup compared to their previous game against the Seattle Sounders, bringing Aiden O’Neill into the team for Hannes Wolf.
Martínez had several early chances but was denied by Charlotte’s defense and goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina. Kevin O’Toole also forced a save from Kahlina in the 12th minute. Charlotte’s first significant opportunity came in the 17th minute when Brandt Bronico tested New York City goalkeeper Matt Freese.
As the first half progressed, New York City continued to create more opportunities. Andrés Perea struck the crossbar before Martínez scored in the 34th minute. He collected a headed pass from Perea, maneuvered past two defenders, and finished under Kahlina to give his team the lead.
Charlotte attempted to respond with Liel Abada having an effort blocked by Thiago Martins before halftime.
In the second half, Charlotte increased their attacking pressure and Freese was called upon early to deny Kerwin Vargas. The match settled as time went on, with fewer chances created by either side.
New York City made substitutions in the second half: Raúl Gustavo was replaced by Hannes Wolf in the 72nd minute, followed by Agustín Ojeda coming on for Moralez ten minutes later. Perea nearly doubled New York City’s advantage late in the match, but Kahlina produced a point-blank save.
Further changes were made during stoppage time with Seymour Reid and Julián Fernández replacing Martínez and Nico Fernández. Archie Goodwin had a late chance for Charlotte but hit the side-netting.
The win gives New York City FC an advantage heading into Game 2 of this best-of-three series. The next match is scheduled at Yankee Stadium on Saturday, November 1 at 3:30 PM ET.
