Orlando City Vs LAFC: 3 things to watch for – Underdogs face favorites

2. Can Orlando’s backline hold up?

Orlando City’s backline has been excellent in this tournament. They’ve only allowed three goals and have led the team to being unbeaten thus far through the tournament. All four of their fixtures have been relatively low scoring, which is a testament to their defensive structure.

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LAFC, however, will give the Orlando defense their toughest test to date this season. The Lions must deal with a trio of players in terrific form. Diego Rossi’s seven tournament goals lead the entire competition, but Bradley Wright-Phillips and Brian Rodriguez have also been consistent key contributors.

Joao Moutinho and Ruan are going to be key players at left and right-back. If they can disrupt LAFC’s two wingers, they should have a chance to hold the Black and Gold down, at least somewhat. For the center-backs, Antonio Carlos and Robin Jansson, they will be tasked with ensuring Wright-Phillips is not allowed to operate freely at striker. If they allow Wright-Phillips time and space he will punish them. The former two-time Golden Boot winner has already shown he just needs one chance to make a difference.

LAFC are the best attacking unit in the league, but Orlando’s defensive improvement under Oscar Pareja has been impressive. Can they now hold up when put to the fire?