The Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs are underway, with Charlotte FC hosting New York City FC in the first match of their Round One Best-of-3 series [8]. All eyes are on the Queen City as Charlotte FC, a top-four seed, prepares to "Protect The Fortress" against NYCFC [8]. Meanwhile, New York City FC hopes that Alonso MartÃnez and Hannes Wolf, who accounted for 28 of their 56 regular-season goals, can lead them to a deep playoff run [7].
Key MLS Developments
Orlando City's season came to an end sooner than fans hoped [14], with the club missing the playoffs after finishing 10th in the East, snapping a 15-season streak [4]. Despite the disappointing finish, Orlando City defender Alex Freeman was nominated for MLS Young Player of the Year after a breakout season where he scored six goals and provided three assists [11]. Looking ahead, the first matchdays of the first round will conclude with LAFC playing Austin FC on Wednesday [12].
Orlando City in Transition
In a surprising move, Luiz Muzzi is departing Orlando City SC [6]. Muzzi, who joined the club before the 2019 season, built a team that achieved a league-long six-year playoff streak and won the 2023 U.S. Open Cup [6]. His departure leaves a void in the club's leadership, and the new general manager will face the challenge of replacing outgoing players and improving the squad for the 2026 MLS SuperDraft [5]. One player who may see increased opportunities is Zakaria Taifi, who primarily came off the bench in late-game situations [3]. The club may look to give Taifi more time with the Young Lions to further his development [20].
Other Soccer News
Several Orlando Pride players were involved in international action [17]. Goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse was on the bench for England, while Angelina was sent off in Brazil's 2-1 victory over England [2]. Zara Chavoshi was on the bench for Canada's loss to Switzerland [2], and Emily Sams remained on the bench during the USWNT's 3-1 win over Portugal [2, 12]. The USWNT victory served as redemption for their previous loss to Portugal [12]. Orlando Pride forwards Marta and Barbra Banda were nominated for the 2025 FIFPRO World 11 [15].
TL;DR
- Charlotte FC is set to face New York City FC in the first match of the MLS Playoff Round One Best-of-3 series [8].
- Luiz Muzzi is leaving Orlando City SC after a successful tenure that included a U.S. Open Cup victory [6].
- Orlando City defender Alex Freeman was nominated for MLS Young Player of the Year [11].
- Several Orlando Pride players were involved in international matches, with Marta and Barbra Banda nominated for the 2025 FIFPRO World 11 [2, 15].