247 - Gates slammed shut
Orlando City has not allowed a goal since the 23rd minute of its 1-1 draw with Nashville SC on August 18, meaning the Lions have gone 247 minutes without conceding. This current run ranks as the longest of the season, passing their previous high of 228 minutes from May 8-29. Orlando City is unbeaten in its last six MLS games.
75 - Big milestone for the captain
Nani’s next appearance for Orlando City, which could come this Saturday against the Columbus Crew, would be his 75th in all competitions for the Lions. Nani is Orlando City’s franchise leader in assists with 24 and ranks second in goals with 30. The Club has reached a cup final and won its first-ever playoff game during his tenure as captain, which began immediately upon his arrival in February 2019. Nani has made the MLS All-Star team both times the game was played during his time in the league.
104 - Mueller Takes the Lead
Earlier this season, Chris Mueller passed Cristian Higuita for the most appearances in Orlando City’s MLS history in all competitions. If he appears against Columbus this weekend, Mueller will also take the MLS regular season appearance record for himself, pulling on the purple for the 104th time in MLS play.
1.08 - The world is Crew-el
Orlando City faces defending MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew this Saturday at Exploria Stadium, but the Crew have not been nearly as enthralling as they were during last year’s run to the title. Columbus is averaging 1.08 expected goals per game, second to last in all of MLS; only Inter Miami has been less productive in terms of creating chances. The Crew are also tied for last in expected assists per game with Miami and Vancouver Whitecaps.
5 - Don’t foul around the box
The Lions might want to be careful when making contact around their own penalty area this weekend. Columbus midfielder Lucas Zelarayan, last year’s MLS Cup MVP, has scored five free kick goals this year, including one last week against FC Cincinnati. Zelarayan is one shy of Sebastian Giovinco’s single-season MLS record, set for Toronto FC in 2017.
1.5 - FAIRWINDS Credit Union
Score up to 1.5% cash back and LionNation points when you use your FAIRWINDS Orlando City Visa® or Orlando Pride Visa® on game day purchases and everyday essentials. Apply today and get purple carded.