Orlando City SC works to get their offense back | OneFootball

Orlando City SC has the defense it has been seeking after two consecutive 0-0 draws. But now they want the offense back.

Two consecutive draws against two tough teams mean that Orlando City SC solved the defense problem. A strong Philadelphia Union squad left the pitch 0-0 in an away match for Orlando City. Then they met the usually frisky New York Red Bulls at home and finished with the same 0-0 result.

The Red Bulls appeared off the beam throughout their meeting with Orlando. Even after the 56th minute, when Rodrigo Schlegel was sent off with a second red card, the New York squad couldn’t score. That’s a tribute to the disruption City’s strong defense caused their opponents.

City and supporters were impressed that their team earned a point even after playing down a player. Yet during their strong first half with a bank of chances, why couldn’t the Lions score then?

Nov 1, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Orlando City head coach Oscar Pareja reacts in a penalty shootout against Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Head Coach Oscar Pareja spoke to their strong first half. He observed their execution was the finest they ever had against the Red Bulls. But the offense they need is to dominate and exploit all their chances. They must be precise and lethal as he put it.

That observation came just days before Pareja, the former MLS Coach of the Year and winningest in Orlando City history, signed a new contract through 2028.

The offense they want back is a scheme identified last season by scouts of the Atlanta United. They called it the South American Attack (or Offense). It emphasizes control of space, driven by aggression. Teams using this scheme will attempt more dribbles than others, while working to control the middle of the pitch.

Like the European squads adapting this offense, when they used it last season Orlando moved their attack along the left. But aggression doesn’t work when it appears as recklessness. That means red cards must be kept to a minimum.

Orlando City SC will get their offense back and balanced with their defense soon. With balance and skill, an offense strong as their defense will drive the squad far in 2025.