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Orlando City host Charlotte at the Inter & Co Stadium on Sunday in the MLS Cup first round, looking to bounce back from their last setback. After winning three league games in a row, the Lions were beaten 2-1 by Atlanta United last weekend.
First-half goals from Saba Lobzhanide and Jamal Thiare gave them a two-goal cushion, before Martin Ojeda pulled one back for Orlando minutes before the break.
In the second half, Oscar Pareja's side huffed and puffed in search of the elusive equalizer, upping the pressure on their visitors, but their lack of clinicality meant it ended in a defeat.
It was their 12th loss of the top-flight season from 34 games, but they remained in fourth position on the Eastern Conference table with 52 points. They haven't lost two MLS games in a row since June.
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Meanwhile, sitting right behind them is Charlotte, who closed the gap on them to just one point following a comprehensive 3-0 win over DC United. Pep Biel, Patrick Agyemang and Liel Abada all netted apiece in the second half, extending their winning run to three games.
Orlando City vs Charlotte Head-To-Head and Key Numbers
- There have been seven clashes between the sides before, with Orlando winning thrice and losing twice.
- The Lions haven't lost in the fixture since May 2023, a run that stretches to four games, having been defeated in their previous two.
- After the 2-1 loss to Atlanta United, Orlando could see back-to-back defeats for the first time since June.
- Charlotte have won their last three league games in a row and remain unbeaten in their last five, having lost the previous three.
- The Crowns have kept a clean sheet in their last two MLS games. They haven't kept three in a row since May (3).
Orlando City vs Charlotte Prediction
This is a clash of two good teams who have had an encouraging season in MLS thus far.
Although the Lions were beaten in their last game, they could come flying out of the blocks here, giving Charlotte a tough run for their money. We expect this game to end in a draw, leaving things open ahead of the next matches.
Prediction: Orlando City 2-2 Charlotte
Orlando City vs Charlotte Betting Tips
Tip 1 - Result: Draw
Tip 2 - Goals over/under 2.5: Over 2.5 goals
Tip 3 - Both teams to score: Yes
