Orlando City’s 2‑1 victory over a rotated Real Salt Lake squad on Saturday was a turning point for the club, as striker Antoine Griezmann netted a brace to propel the team into ninth place and above the MLS playoff line. The win was the first of the season for Orlando since the World Cup break and marked a dramatic improvement from their early struggles.
Griezmann’s impact is evident in the numbers. Before his debut, Orlando ranked 12th in expected goals (xG) and tied for 12th in goals scored. Since he took the field, the club has risen to third in xG and tied for fourth in goals, a leap that has translated into a surge in overall performance. The team’s possession, field tilt and chances created have all climbed into the top 10 in MLS, up from 24th in chances created earlier in the campaign.
The forward’s influence extends beyond the goal line. He has helped sharpen the play of several teammates, including 19‑year‑old academy product Justin Ellis, target forward Daryl Dike, Croatian winger Marco Pasalic and Brazilian 21‑year‑old Tiago, who can operate both centrally and on the wing. Griezmann’s presence has also helped the club’s midfield become more cohesive, with the players fitting together more seamlessly.
Despite the progress, Orlando still faces key questions. The club is looking for a long‑term head coach and a defensive overhaul to reach trophy‑contending status. The coaching staff is evaluating how best to integrate new signings and maintain the momentum generated by Griezmann’s arrival.
The broader MLS landscape is also shifting. Nashville SC, for example, has been described as the best team in the league, recently securing a dramatic 3‑2 comeback win over the Columbus Crew that gave them a 10‑point cushion over Inter Miami in the East and a nine‑point lead over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the Supporters’ Shield race. Nashville is on pace for 79 points, potentially setting a new league record, and has a 13‑game lead over the Shield.
Meanwhile, San Jose Earthquakes are struggling, having lost 5‑1 at home to Minnesota United after only one win in their last ten matches. The Quakes have been the last in goals conceded since May 1 and are tied for last in goal difference.
Off the pitch, MLS continues to see significant player movement. Nashville is set to acquire midfielder Eduard Löwen from St. Louis City, while Seattle Sounders are reportedly paying $6 million for forward Dejan Joveljic from Sporting Kansas City. Columbus Crew are in advanced talks to sign Uruguayan striker Santi Rodríguez from Botafogo.
In a lighter moment, a toddler briefly entered the field during Minnesota’s 5‑1 win over San Jose, causing a brief stoppage in play but no injuries.
Orlando City’s recent surge, led by Griezmann’s goal‑scoring prowess, signals a new chapter for the club as it seeks to secure a playoff berth and build a foundation for future success.
