Orlando, FL – In a match reminiscent of a déjà vu experience, Orlando City SC (11-10-7, 40 points) dominated the New England Revolution (8-16-3, 27 points) with a resounding 3-0 victory at Inter & Co Stadium on Saturday night. The Lions’ home dominance continued, mirroring their recent 3-0 win over Nashville SC.
Orlando completed a season sweep of the Revolution, having defeated them in Foxboro, MA a few weeks earlier. The match was played without New England head coach Caleb Porter, who was suspended for one game and fined $20,000 due to his post-match comments about officiating after a 2-2 draw against St. Louis.
The Lions’ offensive prowess was on full display as they scored two goals in the first half, including a stoppage-time penalty kick converted by Facundo Torres. Duncan McGwire sealed the victory with a goal in the 74th minute.
Although the Revolution showed some early aggression, they were unable to break through Orlando’s defense and test goalkeeper Pedro Gallese. In the 22nd minute, Orlando capitalized on a corner kick, with Martín Ojeda’s assist leading to Rafael Santos’ goal.
Pedro Gallese mad a masterful save last in the match, knocking away a revolution blast to the high left corner, keeping his clean sheet.
The Lions continued their dominance in the second half, with Torres’ penalty kick doubling their lead. A late goal from Duncan McGuire, assisted by Nico Lodeiro, further solidified Orlando’s victory.
Lions Head Coach Oscar Pareja Was pleased weight he result, obviously.
“We feel very [good].” Said Pareja” I would like to remark on the discipline of the players in a very difficult game. It seems like we were precise in the moments that we needed the most, but the discipline and the commitment that we have within the structure of the team was to survive in the moments where New England had their chances. So, while we’re growing collectively, the team will have better chances to have performances like these and winning more points. So, we’re happy with it. And now, within the game, I thought we had control and when we had the chances, that is something that made me very optimistic for what is coming. We are precise in the box. We’re scoring goals again, and that makes us look like we’re in a good place. Congratulations to the players. To the fans, thanks for joining us today. Seeing them in the stands always will be very encouraging for us.”
Orlando faces a quick turnaround this week, playing Charlotte FC on Wednesday night and then traveling to Columbus to face the Crew on Saturday.
