Orlando City Blown Away at Home

The attacking duo of Jozy Altidore and Sebastian Giovinco were too much to handle for the Orlando City back line. Giovinco’s free kick goal in the 65th minute put the game to bed at Orlando City Stadium with the final score 3-1 in favor of Toronto FC.

Defensive Woes

It seems as if every Orlando loss this season has come by way of colossal mistakes defending. This game was no different as Toronto FC carved through the defense at times as if it were swiss cheese.

We've seen this connection a time or two before. #ORLvTOR pic.twitter.com/7QQq8Hyn6I

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 6, 2017

A look at the play above shows Orlando City defender Jose Aja, number 4, completely caught out by Giovinco. Aja attempts to press Giovinco, but judges incorrectly – leaving Jozy Altidore in miles of space.

Orlando City were lucky to go into half-time only down one goal.

But that lead from Toronto FC doubled within thirty seconds after play resumed.

Jozy ➡️ Seba@JozyAltidore returns the favor and Seba doubles the lead. #ORLvTOR https://t.co/yycXeZxIhf

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 6, 2017

Some members of the backline for Orlando stepped up while others followed trailing runs. Jonathan Spector kept Jozy Altidore onside as Altidore then returned the favor to Giovinco for the Italian’s first goal of the game.

Orlando City’s Flash of Hope

Down 2-0 heading into the middle portion of the second half, Orlando City were able to find a break through. The wings were the avenue of success for the lions all night long and they were able to cash in on their efforts. Second half substitute, Carlos Rivas got on the end of a Ricardo Kaka pass to put the home side on the board.

Carlos Rivas slots it home to bring one back for @OrlandoCitySC. #ORLvTOR https://t.co/nIzAUJsxs0

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 6, 2017

But what glimmer of hope and belief Orlando City had was squandered almost immediately after the Rivas goal.

A foul given away by Spector and Aja on Altidore set up a free kick within range for Giovinco.

It was a moment of brilliance.

Simply stunning from Sebastian Giovinco. #ORLvTOR https://t.co/4ZM0nQAgqq

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 6, 2017

Looking Ahead

Orlando City will look to turn around this disappointing loss when they return to action on July 21 against Atlanta United in Orlando City Stadium. This will be the first time these Eastern Conference opponents will meet. Atlanta United are one spot ahead of Orlando in the current MLS standings.