CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Alonso Martínez found the net in the 34th minute, breaking a three-match drought without scoring, leading New York City FC to a 1-0 victory over Charlotte FC on Tuesday evening to kick off a best-of-three matchup.
New York City became the first visiting team to triumph in the 2025 MLS playoffs following the initial eight teams’ defeats. NYCFC is set to battle Charlotte again on Saturday in Game 2.
Martínez, who netted 17 goals throughout the regular season, received a headed ball from Andrés Perea, maneuvered to the edge of the 18-yard box, and skillfully sliced past Charlotte’s defense for a composed finish beneath Kristijan Kahlina.
Matt Freese, who recorded eight clean sheets in the regular season, achieved four saves.
Charlotte was missing forward Wilfried Zaha due to a suspension from a red card.
