1.03 – Defensive masterclass
Orlando City’s defense has improved more than almost any individual unit in MLS from 2018 to 2019. The Lions allowed 74 goals last season and are on pace to allow just 44 this year, a 30-goal improvement that would easily set a club record. The underlying numbers are good, too—Orlando allowed 1.76 expected goals per game last year, second-worst in MLS next to San Jose. This year, that number has been nearly halved down to 1.03, which is second-best in the entire league, behind only Shield leaders LAFC.
5 – Torrid Tesho
Tesho Akindele has scored five goals since May 19, the most of any Orlando City player. The Lions are 5-0-1 in all competitions when Akindele scores a goal this season. Tesho’s six MLS goals are his highest total since 2016, and he’s just one off his career high of seven, set back in 2014 when he was a finalist for MLS Rookie of the Year.
1.10 – Nani on fire
Nani continues to shine as one of the very best players in MLS. The captain qualified for the MLS Team of the Week bench off a two-assist performance in Columbus on Saturday, putting him at 8 goals and 6 assists in just 15 games this season. Nani is third in the league among qualifying players in goals and assists per 90 minutes at 1.10, behind only LAFC’s Carlos Vela and NYCFC’s Maxi Moralez.
3 – Dom owns the Union
Dom Dwyer, who is in contention to return to the side on Wednesday night after the birth of his daughter Roux, seems to have the Philadelphia Union’s number. Dwyer has scored against Philly all three times he has played them in an Orlando shirt, including in last year’s 2-0 win in Chester. Dwyer has six career goals against the Union.
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.
