On May 18, 2025, Orlando City SC delivered a commanding performance against their in-state rivals, Inter Miami CF, securing a 3-0 win at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. This victory not only extended Orlando’s unbeaten streak to 12 matches across all competitions but also marked their first triumph over Inter Miami with Lionel Messi in the lineup.
Lineup Formation
Inter Miami : Ustari, Fray, Lujan, Falcon, Allen, Bright, Busquets, Allende, Messi, Alba, Suarez
Ornaldo City: Muriel, Angulo, Ojeda, Pasalic, Gerbet, Araujo, Brekalo, Jansson, Schlegel, Freeman, Gallese
First Half: Orlando Takes the Lead
The match began with both teams displaying aggressive intent. Despite Inter Miami’s efforts to control possession, Orlando City capitalized on a counterattack in the 43rd minute. Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese launched a long ball that found Luis Muriel, who skillfully controlled it and fired a shot past Miami’s goalkeeper, Óscar Ustari, giving Orlando a 1-0 lead just before halftime.
Second Half: Orlando Seals the Victory
Orlando City came out of the halftime break with confidence and energy, clearly determined to maintain control of the match. Their aggressive pressing and quick transitions continued to put pressure on the opposition’s backline. In the 53rd minute, Orlando’s persistence paid off when Marco Pašalić capitalized on a defensive lapse. After a miscommunication between the center-backs, Pašalić intercepted the loose ball just outside the box. Showing great composure, he took a touch to set himself before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner with a precise, low-driven shot leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
Defensive Masterclass by Orlando
Orlando City’s defense was instrumental in their victory. Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese recorded his sixth clean sheet of the season, making four crucial saves. This performance marked the first time Inter Miami was held scoreless at home since October 2023, ending their 24-match scoring streak at Chase Stadium.
Inter Miami’s Struggles Continue
Inter Miami’s defeat against Orlando City marked their fifth loss in the last seven matches, highlighting a period of inconsistency for the team. Despite having star players like Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez in the starting lineup, Miami struggled to break down Orlando’s resilient defense. Messi, in particular, showed visible frustration during the match and received a yellow card for dissent. Major League Soccer Updates
Player of the Match
In a match where defensive discipline was key, Pedro Gallese stood out as the undeniable hero, earning a match rating of 8.8. The experienced Peruvian goalkeeper delivered a top-class performance, making several crucial saves that kept his team ahead throughout the game. His reflexes, positioning, and leadership from the back gave the defense much-needed confidence, especially in high-pressure moments. Gallese’s ability to read the game and deny clear goal-scoring opportunities was vital in securing the clean sheet. This outstanding display rightfully earned him the Player of the Match title and proved once again why he is considered one of the most reliable shot-stoppers in the league.
Javier Mascherano ” We had chances, we pressed, but he was everywhere. Sometimes, you have to accept when a goalkeeper has a perfect game. Pedro was simply outstanding. Credit to him and the entire Orlando squad.”
Oscar Pareja “Pedro is a leader for us. Today he showed once again what he means to this team. His composure, his saves, his communicationit was all there. He was the difference, and we’re very proud of his effort tonight”
Impact on MLS Eastern Conference Standings
With this victory, Orlando City SC improved their record to 6 wins, 2 losses, and 6 draws, accumulating 24 points and moving up to fifth place in the Eastern Conference standings. Inter Miami CF, now with 6 wins, 3 losses, and 4 draws, remains at 22 points, slipping to sixth place.
Orlando City SC will aim to maintain their momentum as they prepare to host Nashville SC in the Round of 16 of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on May 21. Inter Miami CF, on the other hand, will look to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming fixture against the Eastern Conference leaders, Philadelphia Union.
