Martin Ojeda scores both goals in Saturday night's win
After Wednesday's heartbreaking collapse against New York City FC, where Orlando City led 1-0 in the 83rd minute but lost 2-1 at home, the Lions needed a response on the road. They got exactly that at Gillette Stadium, defeating the New England Revolution 2-1 Saturday night behind a stellar two-goal performance from Martín Ojeda.
The Argentine playmaker, who now leads Orlando City with 12 goals and 10 assists, was the difference-maker in a match that showcased a more balanced and tactically astute Orlando side. Unlike recent performances where the Lions dominated possession but struggled to convert chances, this victory demonstrated their ability to be more direct and clinical in attack.
Ojeda opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a perfectly placed left-footed shot from the center of the box, converting a brilliant through ball from Eduard Atuesta. The goal capped off an impressive opening period where Orlando showed the kind of composure that was missing in their previous outing against NYCFC.
New England equalized in the 55th minute through Tomás Chancalay, who finished smartly from the center of the box after a cross from Ilay Feingold. The goal threatened to derail Orlando's momentum, but this time the Lions showed the mental fortitude that had been absent in recent weeks.
The decisive moment came just three minutes later when Ojeda struck again, this time assisted by Iván Angulo to restore Orlando's lead at 2-1. The quick response demonstrated the character that coach Oscar Pareja has been demanding from his squad.
What was most encouraging for Orlando was their tactical approach. Rather than simply trying to dominate possession as they had against NYCFC—where they controlled 61.9% of the ball but still lost—the Lions were more direct and purposeful in their attacking play. They managed just 38.1% possession against New England but created better quality chances, outshooting the Revolution 16-14 in total attempts and 5-3 in shots on goal.
Luis Muriel added some stellar passes throughout the match, showcasing the veteran striker's playmaking ability alongside his goal-scoring threat. The Colombian's vision and distribution helped unlock New England's defense on multiple occasions, providing another dimension to Orlando's attack.
The victory moves Orlando City back on track on time for a crucial Friday night clash in Columbus against the Crew, pitting the 4th-place Crew against Orlando's 6th-place Lions in what promises to be a pivotal Eastern Conference showdown.
With Ojeda hitting his stride at the perfect time and the team showing improved tactical flexibility, Orlando City appears to have found its groove again just as the season enters its most crucial phase.
