Orlando CIty SC gains more than three points from D.C. United match | OneFootball

It’s five matches into the MLS season. Orlando City SC has hopped over the playoff line with a positive Goal Differential.

In 2024, it took about half the season for Orlando City SC to secure a spot over the MLS playoff line. It took a bit longer to earn a positive Goal Differential.

Yet this season, the Lions are over the line five matches into the 2025 season and have a Goal Differential of two.

Orlando’s 4-1 defeat of D.C. United is the victory that vaulted the club over the playoff line. Wisely, the team now focuses on ways they can turn such a match into a clean sheet.

They entered into intensive drills to tighten up their defensive effort. This effort had already rallied for this match as Javier Otero got called into the goal to replace starting goalkeeper Pedro Gallese. He had received the call to join his Peruvian national team.

With this effort, Otero got tested by only five shots on goal, with four saves including one punch.

Oct 19, 2024; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando City head coach Oscar Pareja motions to the field during the second half against the Atlanta United at Inter&Co Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images | Mike Watters-Imagn Images

Otero said he appreciated his teammates’ performance. Not only did they produce four scores, but they defended with skill. He first prepared for his game as a netminder by meeting with Gallese. But he said keepers have to stay ready to go onto the pitch at all times.

Head Coach Oscar Pareja said he graded Otero’s time in goal as his best since entering the Academy. The homegrown goalkeeper entered the Academy in 2017. He joined Orlando City B in 2020. He was signed to the first team for the 2024 season with options through 2026.

On the Orlando roster, he occupies Supplemental Slots 21-24. Last season, he came into a match due to injury. This was his first start. He tallied a 33.3% long-ball percentage and three interceptions.

This match tested Orlando City SC to maintain their strong offensive efforts while increasing their defensive efficiency. With a 4-1 victory, the squad passed the test.