Orlando City Edges Atlanta United to Reach First-Ever Conference Final
It was a night to remember for Orlando City SC fans as Ramiro Enrique delivered a crucial moment of brilliance, scoring his first playoff goal just six minutes before halftime. That lone goal was enough to secure a 1-0 victory over visiting Atlanta United FC in Sunday’s Eastern Conference semifinal. The win not only sent the Lions roaring into their first-ever conference final since joining MLS in 2015 but also set a new franchise high-water mark.
For Orlando, this victory was more than just a win—it was a statement. The No. 4 seed Lions managed to shut out ninth-seeded Atlanta, a team that had beaten them in both regular-season meetings. The triumph also came on the heels of a historic weekend for the city, as the Orlando Pride claimed their first-ever NWSL title with a win over the Washington Spirit.
Enrique’s Heroics and Gallese’s Wall-Like Defense
Enrique’s goal came from a scrappy set piece, an area where Atlanta has struggled all season. The play began when Enrique pressured Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan into spilling the ball over his own endline while attempting to catch a high cross. On the ensuing corner kick, Martín Ojeda delivered an outswinger that deflected off bodies in the box before Enrique pounced on the loose ball, poking it past Guzan from close range.
Meanwhile, Orlando’s goalkeeper Pedro Gallese was a fortress in goal, earning his third clean sheet of the postseason. Remarkably, Gallese didn’t have to make a single save, as Atlanta’s attack—despite scoring eight goals in their first four playoff matches—failed to truly test him.
“First and foremost, just happy, right? Happy, happy for this team and for this club, and to be able to move on to this moment, and to have a part in that by scoring the goal,” Enrique said after the game. “I think, you know, being able to get to the conference finals, we’re just really happy. We’re happy to be there. This club is going to take it step by step to ultimately get to what our end goal is, which we all know. I’m just really happy to be able to score tonight.”
Atlanta’s Rollercoaster Season Comes to an End
For Atlanta United, the loss marked the end of a postseason run that had been nothing short of dramatic. The team had to win back-to-back matches just to qualify for the playoffs and then pulled off one of the biggest upsets in MLS Cup playoff history by defeating Lionel Messi and the Supporters’ Shield-winning Inter Miami in a three-game series in Round 1. However, their magic ran out against a determined Orlando side.
Adding to the emotional weight of the night, Atlanta midfielder Dax McCarty played his final MLS game, capping off a storied career that began in 2006. McCarty retires with 488 league appearances and 35 more in the postseason, leaving behind a legacy of consistency and leadership.
Injuries and Missed Opportunities
Interim Atlanta manager Rob Valentino faced a tough challenge after losing striker Jamal Thiaré to injury shortly after Orlando’s goal. Thiaré, who had scored twice in the Game 3 win over Miami, was replaced by Daniel Ríos, who also had to exit early in the second half after taking a ball to the head. Despite creating more opportunities in the second half, Atlanta’s attack lacked the sharpness to break through Orlando’s defense.
What’s Next for Orlando?
With the win, Orlando City SC advances to host the seventh-seeded New York Red Bulls, who defeated New York City FC in Saturday’s East semifinal. The Lions are now just one step away from reaching the MLS Cup final, a feat that seemed like a distant dream not too long ago.
“We are obviously very excited and proud, but first from our players and our staff, we want to honor the fans that came today with such energy and helped us,” Orlando manager Oscar Pareja said. “It’s beautiful to see the stadium that way, see the culture and how this club has become one of the best in Major League Soccer. So, responding with this victory is great, and just having the boys in this moment with the way they’re playing as well.”
Key Takeaways
- Ramiro Enrique scored his first playoff goal to secure Orlando’s 1-0 win.
- Pedro Gallese earned his third clean sheet of the postseason without making a save.
- Atlanta United’s season ends after a valiant playoff run, including a historic upset over Inter Miami.
- Orlando City advances to host the New York Red Bulls in the Eastern Conference final.
As the Lions prepare for their next challenge, one thing is clear: Orlando City SC is no longer just a team with potential—they’re a team making history.
Originally Written by: Field Level Media
