Dear Reader: this is an article continuously updated with the freshest info and data on all the playoff games in the Eastern Conference. We start with Round 1, in which eight teams will play Best of 3 matches to advance into the semifinals. Let us begin!
Inter Miami CF (1) vs. Atlanta United (9)
Game 1, October 25: Inter Miami 2 – 1 Atlanta United
The scoreline doesn’t tell the whole story here… Miami dominated this one with nearly 66% of the possession, 14 more shot attempts and 8 more corners. The one stat Atlanta dominated? Saves. Seasoned veteran keeper Brad Guzan made NINE of them. Luis Suárez continued his goalscoring rampage, but it was an absolute screamer from Jordi Alba that sealed the win.
Columbus Crew (2) vs. New York Red Bulls (7)
Game 1, October 29: Crew 0 – 1 Red Bulls
Whoa… THIS was unexpected. Columbus are the defending champions and on paper the far superior squad. But Felipe Carballo quieted the home crowd in the 25th minute with his first ever MLS goal, and the Red Bulls proceeded to defend that lead tenaciously. Bulls keeper Carlos Coronel made eight saves to keep that clean sheet.
FC Cincinnati (3) vs. New York City FC (6)
Game 1, October 28: Cincinnati 1 – 0 NYCFC
Argentinian Yamil Asad hit (deflected?) his first-ever postseason goal (fed by MLS assist-leader Luciano Acosta) and that’s all it took to give the hosts that critical opening victory. In all fairness, Cincy looked the better team, but as everyone in Columbus now knows… that’s not how it works out. This time, it did.
Orlando City SC (4) vs. Charlotte FC (5)
Game 1, October 27: Orlando 2 – 0 Charlotte
The Lions recorded 12 shot attempts before halftime, and walked into the dressing room 1-0 up off Facundo Torres’ poached shot. This was the Uruguayan’s 19th goal this season, breaking the club record. Charlotte looked stronger in the second half, but once Martin Ojeda hit the second goal for Orlando, the game was effectively over.
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