Orlando City Vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies: Predicted Lineups And Key Players For U.S. Open Cup

David

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Post on May 08, 2025

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Orlando City vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies: Predicted Lineups and Key Players for U.S. Open Cup Clash

The US Open Cup is upon us, and this year's edition promises a thrilling encounter between Florida rivals: Orlando City SC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies. This highly anticipated match pits MLS strength against USL Championship grit, setting the stage for a potential upset and a captivating battle for Florida soccer supremacy. Fans are buzzing, and tickets are selling fast – let's dive into the predicted lineups and key players to watch.

A David vs. Goliath Tale?

While Orlando City boasts the prestige of Major League Soccer, the Rowdies, a formidable USL Championship side, are no strangers to upsetting higher-division opponents. Their experience in the Open Cup, combined with their passionate fanbase and home-field advantage (this match is at Al Lang Stadium), makes this far from a foregone conclusion. Orlando will need to bring their A-game to avoid an embarrassing early exit from the tournament.

Predicted Lineups: A Balancing Act

Orlando City coach Oscar Pareja faces a crucial decision: prioritize the Open Cup or focus on the upcoming MLS fixtures? We anticipate some rotation in the starting XI, allowing key players rest while still fielding a competitive team.

Predicted Orlando City Lineup (4-2-3-1):

• Goalkeeper: Pedro Gallese
• Defenders: João Moutinho, Robin Jansson, Antonio Carlos, Kyle Smith
• Midfielders: César Araújo, Wilder Cartagena, Facundo Torres, Martin Ojeda, Duncan McGuire
• Forward: Ercan Kara

Predicted Tampa Bay Rowdies Lineup (4-3-3):

• Goalkeeper: Akira Fitzgerald
• Defenders: Jordan Scarlett, Forrest Lasso, Aaron Guillen, Jake LaCava
• Midfielders: Lewis Neal, Sebastian Dalgaard, Leo Fernandes
• Forwards: Herberth Zambrano, Lucky Mkosana, Steevan dos Santos

These lineups are, of course, subject to change based on injuries, form, and tactical decisions. Keep an eye on official team announcements closer to game time for the definitive starting XIs.

Key Players to Watch:

Orlando City:

• Pedro Gallese (GK): The Peruvian international is a reliable presence in goal and will be crucial in shutting down the Rowdies' attack.
• Facundo Torres: Orlando's attacking maestro will be key to unlocking the Rowdies' defense. His creativity and dribbling skills are a constant threat.
• Ercan Kara: The striker will be looking to lead the line and provide a clinical finish in front of goal.

Tampa Bay Rowdies:

• Leo Fernandes: The experienced midfielder is the creative hub for the Rowdies, orchestrating attacks and dictating the tempo.
• Lucky Mkosana: A proven goalscorer in the USL Championship, Mkosana will be a major threat to Orlando's defense.
• Sebastian Dalgaard: His energy and tireless work rate in midfield will be vital in disrupting Orlando’s rhythm.

The Importance of Set Pieces:

Set pieces often play a significant role in cup matches, and both teams will need to be sharp in both defending and attacking from dead-ball situations. Expect to see intense battles for aerial dominance throughout the game.

Conclusion: A Must-See Matchup

This Orlando City vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, full of passion, intensity, and plenty of goalscoring opportunities. Regardless of the final result, this US Open Cup match is one you won't want to miss. Check local listings for broadcast information. Who do you think will come out on top? Let us know in the comments below!