405 - Clean as you like
Orlando City sports the best defensive record in Major League Soccer after six weeks, having conceded just twice in their first six matches. Orlando’s only goal allowed in their last nine halves played was a penalty kick, meaning the Lions have not given up a non-penalty goal in 405 minutes of play. The last – and only – open-play goal against Orlando City in 2021 came from SKC’s Gianluca Busio in first-half stoppage time on April 23.
16 - Smith stopper
Kyle Smith has taken his game up a notch in 2021. Playing both left and right back without once being subbed off, Smith is tied for second in MLS in tackles won with 16 on the season. The only man ahead of him is Red Bulls midfielder Cristian Casseres Jr. with 17 – Casseres Jr. will suit up against Smith and Orlando City this weekend.
18’ - Fast starters
Orlando City has scored first in each of its past four games, winning three and drawing one. The Lions have typically jumped ahead early in this stretch, averaging 18 minutes to get their first goal of the game. This is actually weighed down by the first goal against NYCFC on May 8, which didn’t come until the 52nd minute – in each of the other three games, Orlando scored within 12 minutes of the opening whistle, including just 31 seconds in against FC Cincinnati on May 1.
377 - The swamps of Jersey
Orlando City will play Saturday afternoon at Red Bull Arena, New York’s fortress in Harrison, N.J. Since its opening in 2010, the Red Bulls have accrued more points at home than any team in MLS, with 377 over that span. The Lions are 2-4-1 all-time at Red Bull Arena, with their last win coming in 2019. Interestingly, they won that game 1-0, the same score by which they’ve won each of their last two matches this season.
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.
