Orlando City FC defeated Charlotte FC 2-0 in the first game of their MLS playoff series, with goals by Facundo Torres and Martin Ojeda. Torres scored in the 32nd minute after a defensive error, while Ojeda added a second goal in the 76th minute. Charlotte's Pep Biel received a red card in the 90th minute, resulting in a one-game suspension. Game 2 is scheduled for November 1, where Charlotte must win to force a decisive Game 3. Orlando finished fourth in the Eastern Conference, while Charlotte placed fifth, both teams having strong finishes to the regular season. The playoffs are seeing heightened attendance due to the presence of stars like Lionel Messi, contributing to a record season for MLS.