Chattanooga

Chattanooga FC Advances to Eastern Semifinals After Historic 3–1 Win

Boys in Blue beat NYCFC II for their first MLS NEXT Pro playoff victory and prepare for October 25
Chris Paris

Chris Paris

Oct 20, 2026

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Historic Playoff Victory

 

Chattanooga FC is moving on in the MLS NEXT Pro postseason after defeating NYCFC II 3–1.

 

The victory marks the club's first playoff win in MLS NEXT Pro and sets up an Eastern Conference semifinal appearance on Sunday, October 25.

 

The Boys in Blue overcame a second-half equalizer before scoring twice late to secure the result.

 

How the Match Unfolded

 

Alex Krehl opened the scoring in the 31st minute with a header from a Daniel Mangarov corner kick.

 

NYCFC II answered after halftime when Jacob Arroyave took advantage of a loose backpass.

 

Chattanooga's substitutes then helped turn the match.

 

Anton Sorenson scored the go-ahead goal in the 86th minute after an attacking move involving Anthony Garcia.

 

Yuval Cohen added the third goal on a late breakaway after the opposing goalkeeper had advanced for a corner kick.

 

Late Contributions Make the Difference

 

The winning sequence highlighted the effect of Chattanooga's substitutes in a close postseason match.

 

Head coach Richard Dixon praised the group's resilience and ability to regain its rhythm after conceding.

 

Rather than allowing the equalizer to define the night, Chattanooga maintained pressure and finished its chances when they mattered most.

 

The result is a notable milestone for supporters who have followed the club's transition into MLS NEXT Pro competition.

 

Next Match on October 25

 

The Eastern Conference semifinal is scheduled for Sunday, October 25, at 5 p.m. Eastern at Finley Stadium.

 

The league's opponent-selection process was set to determine semifinal matchups on October 20, so readers should check the latest club announcement for the confirmed opponent and any schedule changes.

 

For local soccer fans, the next home match offers a chance to see Chattanooga attempt to extend its postseason run.

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