Orlando City Vs Montreal Impact: 3 things we learned – Orlando moves on

1. Oscar Pareja made Orlando hard to beat

Oscar Pareja has implemented a clear identity in his Orlando City team. In their first knockout match, the Lions were deserved winners on the night, limiting their opponents while pouncing on the opportunities presented.

While there were nervy moments at times, the defense was impressive in keeping a clean sheet. Everyone knows their responsibilities and they can carry them out effectively. They pressed high at times, defended stoutly in the final third, and controlled the match in central midfield.

Orlando have now scored in each of their last five games. More impressively, they have conceded just three goals across the MLS is Back Tournament. They have rarely looked open or defensive troubled and are well-structured and disciplined. They are difficult to beat, and it is a testament to Pareja’s coaching.

Orlando Cit’s improvement under Pareja is clear for everyone to see. They are a well-drilled and well-coached team, and it makes them very dangerous indeed.