In the first half, Orlando City started the game with newcomer Kocevski in the starting lineup. Nicolás Lodeiro worked as a LW and Facu Torres at the 10. At first, Orlando came on the onslaught, very eager to surprise o mengao (Flamengo). Duncan McGuire had a few chances but Flamengo’s defense was spot on and was able to neutralize the young striker throughout most of the first half. In the 19th minute, Pedro scored for o mengao after a beautiful play and a disastrous coverage by the Orlando back line. I loved the resilience and eagerness to find the equalizer from the lions after being down one goal. Flamengo was able to dwindle down defensively, especially through the flanks. This is where the Rafael Santos, Lodeiro, and Angulo connection blossomed to become Orlando’s equalizer. Mini Vini Jr. scored a true masterpiece of a goal and leveled the lions against one of the top teams in Conmebol.
In the second half, Flamengo made two substitutions, and Orlando City started playing against Flamengo’s A team, with Gabigol and David Luiz making their 2024 debut with o Mengao. There were no subs for Orlando City. I loved that Orlando City started being protagonists and created several chances in attack. O Mengao, at times, seemed surprised at how well the lions were progressing offensively and defensively. Pareja’s boys started pressing Flamengo in transition, forcing them to turn over the ball constantly. In the end, Orlando City dominated and it felt the competition was not up to par in the second half, Orlando had several chances to put themselves up one or even two goals and get the historic win, but like in good Orlando fashion, the team could not put the goals into the net. The season looks definitely promising. Until next time, Vamos Orlando!
