Orlando, FL – Inter & Co Stadium was electric as the Orlando City Lions returned home after a disappointing 3-0 loss on the road. The team bounced back in style, dominating Nashville SC 3-0 in a convincing performance.
The Boys in Gold initially applied pressure, but Orlando’s defense, a cornerstone of their season, held firm. Once the Lions countered, Nashville’s press eased, allowing Orlando to create more offensive chances.
“I saw a lot of positives,” said Lions Head Coach Oscar Pareja. “We played a serious and professional game against a rival that created a few chances early on. Our reaction was impressive.”
In the 10th minute, Nashville goalkeeper Joe Willis attempted a clearance, but the pass was sent directly to Martín Ojeda at the top of the box. Ojeda found Iván Angulo open in front of the goal, and he finished off the play with his fourth goal of the season.
Facundo Torres scored twice for Orlando. Dagur Dan Thórhallsson took the ball to the end line and floated it back into the box. Facundo Torres eyed the ball the whole way and struck it on the volley leaving the Nashville goalkeeper no chance to save it.
His second came from a cross by Duncan McGwire. Second-half substitute McGuire received a pass just past midfield and led Nico Lodeiro down the right side of the field. McGuire got the ball back and found Torres open in the middle of the Nashville box before sending a shot past the goalkeeper.
“I’m very happy for our team and our fans,” Pareja continued. “We need to add points and climb the standings.”
The Lions will now have a two-week break due to the FIFA international break. They will return to action on Saturday,September 14th, hosting the New England Revolution at Inter & Co Stadium.
