Charlotte FC's Brandt Bronico (13) watches play during the first...

Charlotte FC's Brandt Bronico (13) watches play during the first half of game 2 of an MLS Cup soccer playoff game against Orlando City, Friday Nov. 1, 2024 in Charlotte, N.C. Credit: AP/Jonathan Aguallo

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Kristijan Kahlina made two saves in a 3-1 shootout after the teams played to a scoreless draw in regulation, and Charlotte beat Orlando for its first-ever MLS Cup playoff win on Friday night.

Charlotte stayed alive in the best-of-three series with Orlando, which will host Match 3 on Nov. 9 for a chance to advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Kahlina dove to his left to deny Nicolás Lodeiro on Orlando’s first attempt, and Patrick Agyemang scored for Charlotte for a 1-0 edge. Robin Jansson sailed it over the crossbar on Orlando’s second PK, and Karol Swiderski rolled it into the bottom corner for a two-goal advantage.

Kahlina ended it with a save of Duncan McGuire's shot in front of an announced crowd of 40,238.

Orlando goalkeeper Pedro Gallese helped keep it scoreless in the first half, highlighted by a reaction save of Liel Abada’s close-range header on a counterattack in the 23rd minute.

Orlando appeared to take the lead in second-half stoppage time on Facundo Torres’ goal but Lodeiro was called offside in the build-up.

Kahlina only needed to make one save in regulation.

Charlotte FC's Brandt Bronico, back, leaps over Orlando City defender...

Charlotte FC's Brandt Bronico, back, leaps over Orlando City defender Dagur Thorhallsson for the header during the first half of game 2 of an MLS Cup soccer playoff game, Friday Nov. 1, 2024 in Charlotte, N.C. Credit: AP/Jonathan Aguallo

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