Orlando City SC Draws Against CF Montréal, Extends Unbeaten Streak
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Orlando — may 18, 2024 —
In a hard-fought match, Orlando city SC and CF Montréal played to a scoreless draw Saturday night. The stalemate in Montréal extends Orlando’s unbeaten streak in Major League Soccer, thanks to stellar saves by goalkeeper Pedro gallese. Also,Defender Zakaria Taifi made his MLS debut. For a closer look at the game’s key moments and Coach Pareja’s outlook, continue reading.
Orlando City SC Draws Against CF Montréal,Extends Unbeaten Streak
Montréal,QC – Orlando City SC and CF Montréal battled to a 0-0 draw Saturday night at Stade Saputo. The stalemate extends Orlando’s unbeaten run to six Major League Soccer regular season matches and marks their third consecutive clean sheet.
Gallese’s Heroics Secure the Point
Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese was the standout performer, tying his season-high with six saves. His crucial stops in the 69th and 79th minutes denied Montréal and preserved the shutout. This clean sheet is Gallese’s third of the season and his 51st overall for the Lions, further solidifying his club record.
Did You Know?
Pedro Gallese’s 51 clean sheets across all competitions are the most in Orlando City SC history.He has become a cornerstone of the team’s defensive strength.
Taifi Makes MLS Debut
Defender Zakaria Taifi, a product of the Orlando City Academy, made his MLS debut in the 85th minute. Taifi, recently signed to a short-term agreement, previously played 42 matches for Orlando City B, starting in 21 of those games. He scored one goal and provided three assists for OCB.He also captained the Orlando City Academy team that won the U17 MLS NEXT Cup in 2021.
Coach Pareja’s Outlook
Head Coach Oscar Pareja shared his thoughts on the match,highlighting both positive and negative aspects of the performance.
It was a game that gave us parts of it where we played the way we wanted. I seriously see in the first half and 20 minutes, the intention that we brought here to play against Montréal where we sequenced well and created chances.
Oscar Pareja, Orlando City SC Head Coach
Pareja acknowledged the team’s frustration with the draw, but also praised their defensive efforts.
I have to see the reactions. it was very frustrating for us. I saw the team fighting a lot and obviously we are concerned about not scoring goals, but the other side is a good balance defensively. We want to keep that but in order to add three points, we have to score goals. We have to get back to that.
Oscar Pareja, Orlando City SC head Coach
He also expressed satisfaction with the contributions of younger players.
I liked the attitude of the team. I thought we fought hard. I liked the youngsters that came and helped us and also the guys that were occupying the midfield positions helped us a lot. Saw a bunch of positive things. I know it truly seems like one point is not enough at this stage,but we certainly know where we are going,and we will keep pushing.
Oscar Pareja, Orlando City SC Head Coach
Pro Tip: Defensive Solidity
Orlando City’s recent defensive form has been notable, with three consecutive clean sheets. Maintaining this defensive solidity will be crucial as they look to improve their goal-scoring record.
Looking Ahead: Atlanta United FC
Orlando city returns home to face Atlanta United FC next weekend in their first encounter of 2025. The match is scheduled for a 7:15 p.m. ET kickoff at Inter&Co Stadium and will be broadcast live on Apple TV+ and MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
