The MLS Cup Playoffs have officially begun for New York City FC as the team played the first game of the Round One Best-of-3 series. Facing Charlotte FC, the Bronx side knew they had a tough task ahead of them for not just this round, but the first match of the series. They never won in Charlotte, but that changed on Tuesday. The Boys in Blue won 1-0 to take the first game of the series.
Interestingly, Pascal Jansen once again went with Raul Gustavo in the backline rather than partnering Justin Haak and Thiago Martins, who have worked well together throughout most of the year in a four-man backline.