CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte FC isn't going out without a fight. Especially not in front of the 40,238 fans who packed into Bank of America Stadium to see them.
Friday was the first-ever home playoff match for the team, taking on Orlando City SC. Charlotte needed a win after Orlando hit them with a 2-0 shutout to start their MLS playoff run.
Neither team could find the net during regulation. That meant it was time for the penalty kick round to determine a winner since MLS rules dictate penalty kicks in playoffs as opposed to allowing draws during the the regular season.
So all eyes were on the goals after more than 90 minutes of play and plenty of pressure on Charlotte goalkeeper Kristjian Kahlina.
Orlando City started the PK round with a kick from forward Duncan McGuire. McGuire, however, failed to hit the net. Charlotte midfielder Ashley Westwood responded, finding the net for the black and blue's first penalty score.
Luis Muriel, an Orlando forward, was able to kick past Kahlina, however, granting the visiting team a penalty score.
But that would be the last time Orlando hit the net.
Charlotte striker Karol Świderski found the net, while Orlando center-back Robin Jansson didn't. Patrick Agyemang, a forward for the black and blue, secured the third penalty goal for Charlotte.
Orlando midfielder Nicolás Lodeiro was up next. But his kick was blocked by Kahlina.
After a scoreless 90 minutes and stoppage time, Charlotte FC won its first-ever home playoff match 3-1 on penalty kicks.
The playoff series continues with Orlando hosting the next match at Inter&Co Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 9. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m. Eastern.