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23 March 2025

Orlando City Hosts D.C. United In Critical MLS Clash

As both teams vie for crucial points, Orlando seeks to bounce back from recent struggles while D.C. looks to maintain an unbeaten start.

Orlando City SC is set to face D.C. United on March 22, 2025, at Inter&Co Stadium in a much-anticipated Major League Soccer (MLS) match. The game starts at 7:30 p.m. and is expected to attract a large crowd eager to support their respective teams. For those unable to attend, the match will also be streamed live on the MLS Season Pass.

This matchup is critical for both teams as they navigate the MLS 2025 season. Orlando City, with a record of 1-2-1, has faced challenges so far, securing just four points from their opening four games. They are looking to bounce back after a 2-2 draw against the New York Red Bulls, where despite a good offensive display, they struggled defensively. The team has scored a total of nine goals but has conceded ten, which highlights their need for improvement in defense.

Orlando City’s coach, Oscar Pareja, will hand a starting role to Javier Otero, marking his first MLS start, as the regular goalkeeper Pedro Gallese is currently away on international duty with Peru. Besides Otero, César Araújo and Rafael Santos will also rejoin the starting lineup after being rested in previous games.

On the other hand, D.C. United, currently boasting an unbeaten record with one win and three draws (1-0-3), occupies a relatively favorable position with six points earned from four matches. The team has shown solid performances, indicated by their defensive resilience, having conceded only five goals, while scoring six. The presence of their star striker, Christian Benteke, who has already netted three times this season, will be vital for D.C. United as they look to capitalize on their chances against Orlando City.

Historically, this matchup has been competitive; Orlando City holds an overall record of 8-9-2 in league play against D.C. United. However, last season, Orlando City swept the season series, winning both encounters, including a notable 5-0 victory in July. With home-field advantage, Orlando City will look to replicate that success.

The stakes are high, and both teams are eager for points that could significantly impact their standings. Orlando City aims to improve their goal-scoring efficiency to secure a victory that would bring them closer to playoff contention. Meanwhile, D.C. United seeks to convert their draws into wins to climb higher in the rankings.

With both teams motivated and the crowd expected to be lively, the match promises to be an exciting encounter. Fans will be keen to see how Orlando City’s new striker dynamics will play out and how D.C. United’s strong defense stands up against Orlando’s attacking threats. Expect a thrilling night of soccer at Inter&Co Stadium!

Stay tuned for coverage of this exciting matchup!