Sports
Orlando City SC Set to Host Atlanta United in Eastern Conference Semifinals
Orlando City Soccer Club (SC) is preparing to host Atlanta United in a highly anticipated matchup for the Eastern Conference Semifinal of the Audi 2024 Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup Playoffs. This decisive encounter is scheduled for Sunday, November 24, at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Florida. The game will commence at 3:30 p.m. ET, with the stadium gates opening an hour and a half earlier at 2:00 p.m. ET.
Fans attending the match will have access to numerous pre-match activities, starting as early as 1:00 p.m. ET at Mane Street Plaza, sponsored by Publix. The plaza is set to provide a range of family-friendly attractions, such as a photo booth, temporary tattoos, and games. Food trucks and the newly introduced Heineken Star Bar will be open for attendees to enjoy.
The stadium, which has undergone several technological upgrades, now boasts over 200 new televisions and enhanced WiFi services, in addition to updated security measures. These improvements are intended to boost the overall match day experience for fans, as reported by Aaron Cranford, Director of Digital Content at Orlando City SC.
Atlanta United will face Orlando City SC with a roster that includes notable players like Brad Guzan and Stian Gregersen, while Orlando City will field talents such as Pedro Gallese and Facundo Torres. The winner of this single-elimination match will advance to the Eastern Conference Finals to contend against the New York Red Bulls on November 30.
The match introduces extra time rules, where two 15-minute halves will be played if the scores are tied at the end of regulation. Should the tie persist post-extra time, a penalty shootout will determine the victor.
Orlando City SC has encouraged fans to utilize the official team app for managing tickets and accessing stadium services. Security protocols recommend limited bag use, with small clear totes permitted, as part of efforts to streamline entry and reduce interactions.
For those interested in following the playoffs extensively, the entire MLS Cup journey is available via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, providing comprehensive coverage of all the matches leading up to the final showdown.