In the historical records of Orlando City, the team’s key players, as well as Alex Freeman, found the net in their match against D.C. United. The Lions emerged victorious with a 4-1 scoreline, with Muriel, Ojeda, Freeman, and Pasalic all contributing goals.
Despite hitting the post multiple times, Orlando maintained a 4-0 lead until MacNaughton scored for D.C. United, denying Orlando a clean sheet. Goalkeeper Javier Otero, in his MLS debut, made six critical saves to secure the win. Head Coach Oscar Pareja praised the team’s performance and confidence but emphasized the need for improvement while highlighting their collective strength. During Pedro Gallese’s absence, Otero stood in as the goalkeeper, and the defense was composed of Rafael Santos, Robin Jansson, Rodrigo Schlegel, and Freeman.
In midfield, Cesar Araujo and Eduard Atuesta played centrally, with Ivan Angulo, Ojeda, and Pasalic providing support for Muriel upfront. Playing against a high defensive line, Orlando looked to exploit possession gained to create scoring opportunities despite initial struggles with offside calls.
Orlando scored first in the 21st minute through a goal by Muriel from a cross by Freeman. The Lions continued to press the attack, with Ojeda having a blocked shot soon after. Despite D.C. United gaining control of the ball and benefiting from leniency towards physical play by the referee, Orlando maintained their lead.
The team’s cohesive effort led to several goal-scoring opportunities, culminating in Pasalic’s goal in the 44th minute to make it 4-0, praising teamwork as the key to success.
However, Orlando’s clean sheet was disrupted by stoppage time goals from Benteke and McNaughton for D.C. United. Despite Orlando City dominating possession, shots, and shots on target, D.C. United managed more corner kicks and higher passing accuracy.
The Lions now face two challenging away matches, starting with a game against the LA Galaxy in California next Saturday.
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