Orlando City clinched a decisive 3-1 triumph over Cavalry FC in the second leg of the first-round Concacaf Champions Cup series, held at their home ground. With this victory, Orlando City advances to the round of 16, having secured a commanding 6-1 aggregate lead across the two legs of the series.
The encounter witnessed a historic moment for Cavalry FC as Myer Bevan found the back of the net, marking the Canadian side’s inaugural goal in the competition and thwarting Orlando City’s aspirations for a repeat of last week’s 3-0 victory. Despite Bevan’s contribution, Orlando City emerged victorious, achieving their first home win in the continental tournament and advancing to the next round for the first time in the club’s history.
Orlando City’s Head Coach, Oscar Pareja, commended Cavalry FC for their spirited performance, acknowledging the challenges they posed throughout the match. He remarked on the difficulty his team faced in maintaining their desired intensity and rhythm, particularly in the attacking third, but praised his players for eventually finding their stride and breaking the deadlock in the second half.
Pareja strategically shuffled his lineup for the match, opting for Homegrown goalkeeper Mason Stajduhar between the posts, supported by a defensive lineup comprising Rafael Santos, Rodrigo Schlegel, Smith, and Michael Halliday. In midfield, Wilder Cartagena and Felipe anchored the team, while an attacking trio of Shak Mohammed, Martin Ojeda, and Enrique, alongside new Designated Player Luis Muriel, spearheaded the offense.
Despite entering the match with a comfortable +3 advantage on aggregate, Orlando City’s performance in the first half was relatively subdued, characterized by a lack of scoring opportunities and rhythm. However, Pareja’s halftime adjustments and tactical guidance helped galvanize his team for a more assertive second-half display.
Orlando City broke the deadlock early in the second half when veteran midfielder Nico Lodeiro found the back of the net, courtesy of a well-executed build-up play involving Muriel. Although Cavalry FC managed to equalize through Bevan, Orlando City regained the lead with a stunning strike from Enrique in the 71st minute.
The match witnessed further opportunities and near-misses from both sides, including a disallowed goal from second-half substitute Facundo Torres and a late goal from Smith, sealing Orlando City’s victory at 3-1.
Reflecting on the match, Pareja emphasized the importance of patience and organization in creating scoring opportunities, while defender Michael Halliday reiterated the team’s unwavering focus and determination despite holding a significant lead.
Looking ahead, Orlando City shifts its focus to an upcoming derby against Inter Miami, scheduled for Saturday. Additionally, the team anticipates their next Concacaf Champions Cup fixture against Mexican powerhouse Tigres UANL, slated for March 5, with the kickoff time to be announced in due course.
