Orlando City SC on the Path to Glory: MLS Cup as a Real Possibility

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 30: Orlando City SC celebrate a goal scored by Martín Ojeda #11 of Orlando City SC during the second half of a match against the Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium on August 30, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 30: Orlando City SC celebrate a goal scored by Martín Ojeda #11 of Orlando City SC during the second half of a match against the Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium on August 30, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

Orlando City SC is scripting a remarkable success story in Major League Soccer (MLS) this season, and the team’s ambitions seem more tangible than ever. With the breaking of records for wins (15) and points (54) in a single season, the team led by coach Óscar Pareja is determined to reach the coveted MLS Cup presented by Audi, scheduled for December 9.

Orlando City’s journey under Pareja’s leadership has been nothing short of inspiring. Last year, the Colombian coach brought the first trophy of the MLS era to the club by winning the 2022 U.S. Open Cup. Now, he is convinced that his team can achieve an even greater milestone by taking Orlando City to the MLS Cup final.

In his own words, Pareja stated after the recent 3-0 victory over CF Montréal, “We will do the best we can to get this team to the MLS Cup final, and we believe we can do it.” This confidence is palpable, reflecting the spirit and determination that permeate the club.

ORLANDO, FL – SEPTEMBER 24: Ramiro Enrique #7 of Orlando City SC dribble the ball against Inter Miami CF during the second half at Exploria Stadium on September 24, 2023 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Alex Menendez/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL – SEPTEMBER 24: Ramiro Enrique #7 of Orlando City SC dribble the ball against Inter Miami CF during the second half at Exploria Stadium on September 24, 2023 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Alex Menendez/Getty Images)

It is evident that playoff positioning is crucial to achieving the ultimate goal of winning the MLS Cup. The higher the ranking, the greater the chances of success, and Pareja is fully focused on ensuring that his team has the advantage of playing at home for most of the 2023 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs.

The team does not underestimate the challenges ahead, including a tough matchup against Nashville SC. However, the determination is clear, and Peruvian midfielder Wilder Cartagena emphasized the importance of securing three points to clinch the second spot in the Eastern Conference.

Orlando City SC’s journey this season is a testament to the team’s commitment, Óscar Pareja’s leadership, and the passionate support of the fans. The club has become a family, sharing the common goal of reaching the final and capturing the MLS Cup.

As the regular season nears its end and the playoffs approach, Orlando City SC’s story continues to captivate fans and MLS enthusiasts. The team is on the path to glory, and the MLS Cup seems closer than ever. We will closely follow this thrilling journey, rooting for Orlando City SC as they pursue the coveted championship.