ORLANDO, Fla. – Despite being down to 10 men for much of the game, Orlando City found a way to advance to the next round of the Leagues cup after a draw against Atlético San Luis in Orlando on Sunday evening.
After the 1-1 draw, Orlando picked up an extra point by winning the penalty shootout after goalkeeper Pedro Gallese made a crucial save. All five of Orlando’s players made their attempts.
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Orlando City played the final 60 minutes of the match down a player after picking up a red card early in the first half.
Just before the end of the first half, Ramiro Enrique put the ball into the net for the Lions. He now has a goal in six straight matches.
Atlético San Luis’ Rodrigo Dourado tied the game in the 71st minute on a header.
“It was important for us to win it in front of our fans,” Orlando coach Oscar Pareja said after the game. “or us, it was important to keep the momentum and despite the disadvantages in the metrics and numbers. We wanted to win it. So, we’re happy with the victory and now we’re preparing for the next one.”
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— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) August 5, 2024
“We’re really strong in penalty situations, so obviously that fills us with a lot of confidence,” Orlando goalkeeper Pedro Gallese said. “But now in those moments we’ve got to turn around. We’ve got a tough one coming up on Friday against Cruz Azul.”
Orlando City will host Cruz Azul on Friday, Aug. 9th at Inter & Co Stadium.
The Lions return to regular season play on the road Aug. 24 against Kansas City.