New York City FC loss completes Orlando City SC fix-it list | OneFootball

After three matches, Orlando City SC's record is 1-2-0. Supporters are worried; when they aren’t concerned, they’re frustrated.

MLS doesn’t have enough matches played in 2025 to render enough data for conclusive statistics. Yet Orlando City SC supporters became convinced last season that this season’s first three matches would look better than this.

The Lions' record is 1-2-0 after their third-game loss to New York City FC. Their only win so far came against Toronto FC. Even with the meager statistical sampling, no scouts expect the Canadian team to enjoy much success this season.

The first loss of the season was to Philadelphia Union.

To add to their frustration, supporters banked their hopes and expectations on Orlando’s performance during the last half of the 2024 season. For most of the first half, they suffered the same types of shortcomings that plagued them during the first three matches of this season, even against Toronto.

This season just as last, the Lions play a good first half against anyone. Then the opponent opens up on them in the second half and they don’t take care of business. Their overall passing success nearly equaled New York City FC. Yet, subsequent passing becomes inaccurate after the initial touch.

Even with the problems, Orlando City stands tied for fourth place in MLS by Shots on Target. Eight teams line up atop the list with one tie in each place.

Mar 8, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Orlando City forward Luis Muriel (9) reacts to a foul during the first half against New York City FC at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Smith-Imagn Images | Mark Smith-Imagn Images

After the New York City match, Head Coach Oscar Pareja said everyone knew exactly what to correct to gain the competitive edge they had when they earned a post-season berth last season. It’s not just a second-half fix.

In both halves against New York City FC, Orlando failed to finish after clear possibilities throughout the game. They conceded a 59th-minute goal by Alonzo Martinez, equalized in the 69th minute by Luis Muriel, assisted by Marco Pasalic.

Then came the 71st-minute game-winner by Hannes Wolf, assisted by Julien Fernandez.

So Pareja identifies increased defensive skills ranks highly on the list of drills for this week.

Lions supporters shouldn’t let up on their coaches and players. They are not meeting expectations against their opportunities. But they must realize that the performance issues weren’t corrected until halfway through the 2024 season.