On September 20, 2023, at 23:30 UTC, Major League Soccer (MLS) will witness an exciting clash as Orlando City, one of the league’s hottest teams, makes its way to Citi Field in Queens to take on New York City FC. Following a recent 0-0 draw at the Hudson River Derby against the New York Red Bulls, the Pigeons find themselves trailing the Eastern Conference playoff line by four points. Meanwhile, the Lions are riding high on a six-match unbeaten streak in league play, marked by their thrilling 4-3 victory over the Columbus Crew. This upcoming showdown promises to deliver an exhilarating contest in the world of MLS. For those eagerly anticipating the New York City FC vs Orlando City Prediction, this match holds the promise of an exciting and closely watched event.
Match Preview: New York City FC vs Orlando City
- Match: New York City FC vs Orlando City
- Date & Time: September 20, 2023, at 23:30 UTC.
- Stadium: Citi Field
- Location: Stadium in New York City, New York
New York City FC
New York City FC’s struggles persist, as evidenced by their recent 0-0 draw in the Hudson River Derby against city rivals New York RB. The lackluster performance highlights the daunting challenge they face in securing a spot in the top 9 of the league. Their current form is a cause for concern, with just 2 wins in their last 20 rounds (accompanied by 10 draws and 8 losses), leaving them with limited confidence as they approach upcoming fixtures.
Furthermore, NYCFC faces some personnel challenges for their next match. Winger Pellegrini is suspended, although Jasson was likely to take his place in the starting lineup. In the midfield, another change may be forced due to Parks’ injury, making him a significant doubt for the match. Options like veteran Morales or Ledezma could provide cover, but Moralez is also sidelined with an injury, ruling him out of contention. NYCFC faces a tough road ahead with these challenges in mind.
Orlando City FC
Orlando City FC pulled off a remarkable 4-3 victory at home against Columbus last Saturday, defying the odds after trailing 1-3 with little time left. Enrique’s late brace turned the tide and secured this thrilling triumph. Currently occupying the second spot in their Conference, Orlando City has been in scintillating form, boasting the best record of any MLS team over the past six rounds, with 5 wins and 1 draw. The Violets have won an impressive 7 of their last 9 league matches, showcasing their determination and ambition.
Torres, who started on the bench due to a late return from international duty, is expected to feature prominently and continue his impressive run of 5 goals in the last 5 rounds. However, Orlando faces some uncertainties in their lineup as defender Carlos and striker McGuire are undergoing late fitness assessments. Even if they are deemed fit in time, it’s unlikely that they will be in the starting lineup. Orlando City FC seems poised and motivated to maintain their impressive form in the MLS.
Orlando City vs New York City FC Head-to-Head Analysis
In the recent head-to-head matchups between New York City FC and Orlando City, here’s a breakdown of their performance:
- NYCFC has secured 2 wins, 2 draws, and suffered 1 loss in their last 5 encounters against Orlando.
- When playing at home, NYCFC has been particularly strong, winning 4 times and drawing once in their last 5 home games against Orlando.
- However, in their overall home matches, NYCFC has won 1, drawn 3, and lost 1 of their last 5 games.
- On the other hand, Orlando City has shown solid form on the road, with 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss in their last 5 away matches.
- In their recent 5 matches regardless of location, NYCFC has won 1, drawn 2, and lost 2 games, while Orlando City has been in impressive form with 4 wins and 1 draw.
These statistics provide insights into the competitive history between the two teams and their recent performances, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup.
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Season Statistics so far for New York City FC vs Orlando City
New York City FC (NYCFC):
- Position: 24th
- Wins: 6
- Draws: 14
- Losses: 8
- Goals Scored: 28
- Goals Conceded: 34
- Recent Form: LLWDD
Orlando City:
- Position: 2nd
- Wins: 14
- Draws: 13
- Losses: 10
- Goals Scored: 45
- Goals Conceded: 36
- Recent Form: WWDWW
These statistics provide an overview of both teams’ performances in the current season, highlighting their positions, wins, draws, losses, and recent form. Orlando City appears to be in a stronger position and better form compared to New York City FC.
Possible Lineups, Injured or Missing Players
New York City FC (NYCFC):
Possible Lineup (4-3-3)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Matt Freese |
| Defender | Tayvon Gray |
| Defender | Thiago Martins |
| Defender | Birk Risa |
| Defender | Brian Cufre |
| Midfielder | Keaton Parks |
| Midfielder | James Sands |
| Midfielder | Andres Perea |
| Forward | Matias Pellegrini |
| Forward | Monsef Bakrar |
| Forward | Santiago Rodriguez |
Injured or Missing Players (NYCFC):
- No missing players for New York City FC
Orlando City (OSC):
Possible Lineup (4-2-3-1)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Pedro Gallese |
| Defender | Dagur Dan Thorhallsson |
| Defender | Rodrigo Schlegel |
| Defender | Robin Jansson |
| Defender | Rafael Santos |
| Midfielder | Cesar Araujo |
| Midfielder | Felipe Martins |
| Midfielder | Martin Ojeda |
| Midfielder | Mauricio Pereyra |
| Forward | Ivan Angulo |
| Forward | Ramiro Enrique |
Injured or Missing Players (Orlando City):
- Antonio Carlos (Defender) – Injured
- Gaston Gonzalez (Midfielder) – Injured
- Favian Loyola (Midfielder) – Injured
Orlando City vs New York City FC Prediction
Gabriel Pereira has been the driving force for NYCFC, contributing six goals and three assists, while Santiago Rodriguez has made a significant impact with four goals and three assists.
Orlando’s Facundo Torres has been in exceptional form, leading their attack with 12 goals and three assists. The visiting team also possesses offensive threats in Duncan McGuire, who has scored eight goals, and Martin Ojeda, who has contributed with six goals and six assists.
NYCFC’s historical advantage against Orlando in head-to-head matchups provides them with confidence heading into this fixture, and I expect the home side to secure a victory.
Prediction: New York City 2-1 Orlando