Orlando City Seeks MLS Playoff Edge Against Nashville Amid Key Player Returns

Orlando City SC faces a critical match against Nashville SC, with both teams eyeing playoff positioning in the MLS. Orlando, struggling with a poor run of form and a five-match winless streak, looks to leverage the return of key forward Luis Muriel, who has been instrumental with 12 goals and 8 assists this season. Nashville SC, buoyed by momentum from a recent U.S. Open Cup semifinal victory and led by league top scorer Sam Surridge with 21 goals, aims to clinch a playoff spot with a win. Analysts highlight the challenge Orlando's defense faces in containing Nashville's potent duo of Surridge and Hany Mukhtar, responsible for the majority of Nashville's goal contributions. Orlando's coach Oscar Pareja acknowledges Nashville's quality but emphasizes the importance of winning to surpass them in the standings. Key to Orlando's success will be breaking their goal drought, improving finishing, and securing a clean sheet for the first time in months, while relying on contributions from Designated Players like Martin Ojeda and Marco Pasalic to turn chances into goals.