Credit NYCFC
By Juan Carlos Maygua
The stage was set for two of the top teams in the eastern conference to face off. A matchup with a lot of history that saw top players like Luis Nani, Pedro Gallese, and Valentin Castellanos alongside Alexander Callens.
The “Boys in blue” had a difficult task visiting Orlando, but they arrived with confidence after the win in Philadelphia last week.
Difficult Visit
The game featured some unexpected changes in the XI for NYCFC after Alfredo Morales and Maxi Moralez missed out due to injury. However, these changes made way for Nicolas “Cacha” Acevedo to get his second start for the team. The Uruguayan is set to be a player with a promising future if things go well. He was always able to have the ball calmly, and even found Castellanos on some occasions. Andres Jasson also made a start being next to Valentin Castellanos upfront. The wing saw another brilliant display from Anton Tinnerholm on the wing, creating a goal-scoring chance that was saved by Pedro Gallese. In a twist of game rhythm, NYCFC was unable to keep hold of the ball after Gallese’s intervention. This allowed Orlando to take control of the game, which also helped them create chances. In a countermeasure, NYCFC closed the midfield and kept their lines together, making it difficult for Orlando to have good transitional plays. Luis Nani made his first appearance in NYCFC’s half in the final moments before halftime. In a super display by Alexander Callens, he was able to block Nani’s shot on goal.
The second half continued to see both teams battle for the midfield, giving little room for any game generation in the wings. However, Orlando would open the score after they were able to stretch the team from a play in the wing. Luis Nani was given enough space to shoot at goal, in what could be described as a trademark shot that curved into the top corner of the net. The goal was unstoppable and Orlando grew in confidence from that moment on. NYCFC wasn’t able to control the ball, frustrating the defensive line as a result James Sands picked up a yellow card in the 63rd minute, which in my belief caused movements from the bench. Ismael Tajouri Shradi was one of those changes, making it a game-changer for New York. His movement inside the box allowed him to draw a foul in the 75th minute. Valentin Castellanos stepped up to take the penalty, beating Gallese and tying the game. The Argentinian striker continued his scoring streak, with 4 goals in 4 games this season, a true machine. NYCFC had a chance to win the game in the final play, but Jesus Medina’s shot was blocked by Gallese.
Head Coach Ronny Deila highlighted that the outcome of the game was positive due to how good Orlando City is as a team. NYCFC returns to the Bronx with four points from their last two games. Toronto FC now awaits a new challenge on Saturday.