Orlando City Advances to First Eastern Conference Final with 1-0 Win Over Atlanta United
ORLANDO, Fla. (Nov. 24, 2024) — Ramiro Enrique’s first playoff goal propelled Orlando City SC to a 1-0 victory over Atlanta United FC in the Eastern Conference Semifinals on Sunday afternoon at Inter&Co Stadium. With the win, the Lions reached their first Eastern Conference Final in franchise history, where they will host the New York Red Bulls on Nov. 30.
Enrique’s decisive strike came in the 39th minute off a chaotic set piece. After forcing a corner kick, Martín Ojeda delivered a dangerous ball into the box. The ball deflected off an Atlanta defender and fell to Enrique, who reacted quickly to beat goalkeeper Brad Guzan and poke it into the net. The goal marked Enrique’s ninth of the season and first in playoff action.
The Lions’ backline, anchored by Robin Jansson in his milestone 200th appearance for the club, shut down Atlanta’s attack, holding them without a shot on target. Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese secured his 15th clean sheet of the season across all competitions without having to make a save, thanks to a disciplined defensive effort.
“First and foremost, we’re happy,” said Enrique. “Happy for this team, this club, and what we’ve achieved. Scoring tonight and helping the team reach the conference final is a great feeling. We’re taking it step by step toward our ultimate goal.”
Orlando’s victory continued a memorable weekend for the city after the Orlando Pride captured their first NWSL title on Saturday. The Lions are now one win away from reaching their first MLS Cup Final, showcasing the growth of the club under head coach Oscar Pareja.
“We are obviously very excited and proud,” Pareja said. “It’s beautiful to see the stadium full of energy and how this club has become one of the best in MLS. Responding with this victory is great, but we know we still have more work to do. We will prepare for New York and aim to keep moving forward.”
Atlanta’s season came to an end despite a remarkable playoff run that included an upset of Supporters’ Shield winners Inter Miami in Round 1. Interim manager Rob Valentino’s squad struggled with injuries during the match, losing key forwards Jamal Thiaré and Daniel Ríos.
Orlando City will now look to continue their playoff journey against the seventh-seeded Red Bulls, who defeated New York City FC in the other semifinal. Kickoff for the Eastern Conference Final is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.
