Orlando City SC vs Charlotte FC Prediction: Eastern Conference Playoff Battle as Orlando Hosts a Determined Charlotte Side

The big moments come in the MLS playoffs, and that is what is expected as Orlando City SC hosts Charlotte FC. Oscar Pareja has had Orlando having a great season thus far, earning home-field advantage while trying to make that loud playoff statement. Coming into the tie, Charlotte FC, managed by Dean Smith, had some solid recent form and moves with momentum and a high level of confidence on the road. Both teams have been known for their fighting spirit as much as their attack-oriented game, which sets a perfect stage for a thrilling encounter between the two.

Orlando comes into the playoffs highly entertaining after a season that has uncovered some seriously convincing attacking play, but a few moments of defensive slippage as well. On a 3-2-0 run in its last five matches, the team has proven itself in high-scoring affairs-all of its recent matches pushing over 2.5 goals. The last match, a 2-1 defeat against Atlanta, exposed some of those defensive vulnerabilities but also underlined their ability to open games. That said, Pareja's 4-2-3-1 set-up has managed to keep teams at bay and press effectively. Still, their tendency to be vulnerable on high presses could give Charlotte opportunities to capitalize.

Orlando's 4-2-3-1 is centered on the need to dictate through the midfield and take control of a maximum amount of possession. Pareja advances in the press, allowing his wingers to push up and give width as the central forward takes the chance to exploit the areas left by them. In doing so, Orlando often leaves their back door open for counters, something Charlotte would be more than happy to exploit. Considering how Orlando forwards have been on a streak of consistent goals in recent games, they could try maintaining pressure on the Charlotte defense line in view of the latter's predisposition to concede late.

Charlotte comes into this fixture in good form, having won four of their last five, including a comprehensive 3-0 win over DC United. The formation is key to this-4-3-3, a very transitionally type of setup that allows them to press high up the field. Brandt Bronico proved decisive with a couple of assists to seal Man of the Match honors in their last match, underpinning the strength of Charlotte's midfield both in creating and finishing goal-scoring chances. Dean Smith's men have shown a great ability to start strong of late, scoring first in game after game, and they take a three-game win streak into the playoffs.

Dean Smith's 4-3-3 gives balance to Charlotte, but in an aggressive manner, where the dynamic midfield is able to link up the game and support attacks. Quick transitions could disrupt Orlando's buildup play, while high-intensity pressing is likely to. Brandt Bronico's creative influence at midfield makes Charlotte deeper in attack, complicating Orlando's defense in an effort to predict their next move. Defensively, Charlotte might go into a compact shape to limit early attacks from Orlando and use swift counters to turn the tide in their favor.

Orlando leads 3 wins to Charlotte's 2, coupled with 2 draws.

Orlando has remained unbeaten in the last three meets against Charlotte, a tendency of edging out opponents in tight situations.

The latest meetings between the sides have seen Charlotte lose thrice, exposing some cracks that Orlando will hope to exploit.

A probable result given the attacking forms of both teams and seen in five of their last seven meetings.

Five of their last seven meetings have featured over 4.5 cards, and this could be a physical battle.

Also, in six of their last seven games, under 10.5 corners were registered to indicate how fewer set-piece opportunities are being relied on.

This fixture will be rather heated as both teams boast different strengths and styles. Orlando's home advantage and scoring consistency are countered by Charlotte's current form and defensive discipline under Dean Smith. Both teams have shown the tendency for high-scoring games, with recent form indicating over 2.5 goals likely.

Given Charlotte's aggressive press and Orlando's penchant to score first, early control will be significant. Orlando's structured midfield setup could find it challenging against Charlotte's press; if they are able to break it, though, Charlotte's high line may be found out. Defensively, Orlando's struggles could be a liability against a Charlotte side adept at creating big chances.

• Over 2.5 Goals @ 1.651 Odds
• GG (yes) @ 1.6 Odds
• Over 4.5 Cards @ 2.00 Odds