54.7% - Lions on the ball
Orlando City introduced their new identity to the world at the MLS is Back Tournament, producing possession-based soccer that was in equal terms effective and attractive. More often than not, it was the Lions who ended the game with more of the ball, and Orlando City held 54.7% of the possession across their seven tournament games. That number would have been good for fourth in MLS in 2019. Orlando City ranked 17th in possession last season.
7 - Nani involved
Orlando City captain Nani had a spectacular MLS is Back, having a direct involvement in seven of Orlando’s 12 goals in the tournament. The Portuguese winger could have had even more–had his flick to Sebas Méndez not touched Montreal defender Rod Fanni on its way to Tesho Akindele, he would have been given another secondary assist! Nani, along with fullbacks Joao Moutinho and Ruan, was named to the MLS is Back Best XI.
+3 - Caught in his tentacles
Orlando City allowed seven goals in seven games at MLS is Back, a stellar record, but Opta’s expected goals model expected Orlando to have conceded ten goals at Disney. The difference? While some of it can be chalked up to game state–both New York City FC and Minnesota United racked up a ton of low-percentage chances as they trailed early–most can be credited to the exemplary play of goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, who finished second for the tournament’s Golden Glove award. The Peruvian No. 1’s efforts, particularly against NYCFC and LAFC, were critical in advancing Orlando City to the final.
5 in 15 - No rest for the weary
A brutal gauntlet awaits every team in MLS over the next few weeks, and Orlando City is no exception. Due to the Atlanta United home game moving back a day for television, Orlando will begin a stretch of five games in 15 days when they re-open the regular season this Saturday against Inter Miami (8 pm EST, Fox 35 Plus). The Lions play on each of the next two Wednesdays, both against Nashville SC, while they face Atlanta on successive Saturdays.
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.
