News Summary
In a competitive preseason scrimmage, Orlando City SC faced CF Montreal, suffering a 2-1 defeat on February 7, 2025. After a scoreless first half, Montreal took the lead with goals from Dominic Iankov and Sunusi Ibrahim in extra time. Orlando’s Nico Lodeiro managed to score late, making it 2-1. Head coach Oscar Pareja noted improvement areas as the team prepares for the upcoming season, showcasing younger players like Joran Gerbet and Shak Mohammed during the match.
Orlando City SC Faces Off Against CF Montreal in Preseason Scrimmage
In a nail-biting preseason friendly on February 7, 2025, Orlando City SC experienced a tough loss, falling 2-1 to CF Montreal at the impressive Inter&Co Stadium. The match drew a lively crowd of several thousand eager season ticket members, all hoping to catch a glimpse of the excitement yet to come in the new season.
A Scoreless First Half Leads to Extra Drama
As the match unfolded, it was clear that both teams were eager to showcase their skills; however, the first 90 minutes passed without any goals. Fans were treated to a solid defensive showcase, but the score remained locked at 0-0. It was in the additional 30-minute session where the action truly heated up.
Montreal Strikes First
Just a few minutes into the extra time, Montreal’s Dominic Iankov opened the scoring with an impressive goal that sent the traveling supporters into a frenzy. With the score at 1-0, momentum quickly shifted to Montreal. Not long after, they found the back of the net again, as Sunusi Ibrahim added a second goal, putting Montreal comfortably ahead at 2-0.
Orlando’s Late Comeback
However, Orlando City wasn’t ready to give up just yet. In a display of determination, the Lions’ Nico Lodeiro managed to score from a free kick late in the scrimmage, bringing the score to a more respectable 2-1. Though the late goal showcased Orlando’s grit, it wasn’t enough to change the outcome of the match.
Learning Opportunities Ahead
Following the game, the team’s head coach, Oscar Pareja, emphasized the need for improvement, particularly in the areas of finishing and decision-making. It’s clear that the Lions still have some polishing to do before the competitive season kicks off.
Younger Players Get Their Shots
Orlando’s starting lineup featured talented players, including goalkeeper Pedro Gallese and defenders Rafael Santos, Robin Jansson, Rodrigo Schlegel, and Dagur Dan Thorhallsson. Notably, young prospects like Joran Gerbet, a promising pick from the 2025 MLS SuperDraft, and Shak Mohammed were also given the opportunity to shine on the field.
A Physical Encounter
The match was filled with intensity, characterized by aggressive physical play that occasionally led to a minor scuffle, especially as Montreal appeared to target Orlando’s younger players. Such fiery confrontations are not unusual during preseason matchups, as teams try to gauge the limits of their rivals.
Looking Ahead: More Challenges Await
As the preseason progresses, Orlando City is focused on building team chemistry and integrating new signings like Marco Pasalic. Their journey continues with an upcoming scrimmage against Rhode Island FC, where Pareja is expected to field a younger squad. Following that, a more seasoned lineup will take the pitch against Inter Miami as they prepare for the highly anticipated season opener.
As always, fans will be keeping a close watch on their beloved Lions, eager to see how these preseason scrimmages translate into what they hope will be another thrilling season of soccer.
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Additional Resources
- The Mane Land: What We Can Learn from Tracking Where Orlando City Players Came From
- Orlando City SC: Orlando Pride Transfers Forward Adriana for Club Record Transfer Fee
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orlando Pride
- NWSL Soccer: How to Watch Orlando Pride in 2025
- Goal: Besties in Bradenton – Orlando City’s Robin Jansson and Orlando Pride’s Marta
