Orlando City Soccer wins its first MLS playoff game

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando City Soccer Club’s first MLS Cup Playoff match included early goals, red cards and a penalty kick shootout. In the end, the Lions prevailed against New York City FC, 1-1 (6-5), and are one step closer to an MLS Cup.

It was a confusing end to the match. Orlando City’s goalkeeper, Pedro Gallese, was given a red card during the shootout, so defender Rodrigo Schlegel had to step in. The Argentinian made one save, which allowed Benji Michel the chance to deliver the game-winning goal. The Orlando native hit his penalty kick into the upper-left corner of the goal to key the celebration at Exploria Stadium.

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Luis Nani got the scoring started for Orlando City. The captain converted a penalty kick in the fifth minute. New York City FC quickly responded with Maxime Chanot delivering the equalizer three minutes later.

Orlando City will now play the winner of Philadelphia and New England. The Union and Revolution are scheduled to play on November 24.

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All available tickets for Orlando City’s inaugural playoff match were sold out. An estimated six thousand fans were on hand at Exploria Stadium, with capacity limited due to COVID-19 safety precautions.

Cox Media Group