U.S. Open Cup: Orlando City Vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies – Predicted Starting XI And Bench

David

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Post on May 08, 2025

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

The US Open Cup is upon us, and Florida soccer fans are in for a treat! This Wednesday, Orlando City SC will face off against their in-state rivals, the Tampa Bay Rowdies, in a highly anticipated match. Both teams bring strong squads to the table, promising a thrilling encounter. But who will make the starting XI? And which players will be crucial from the bench? Let's delve into our predicted lineups and key matchups for this captivating showdown.

Orlando City SC Predicted Starting XI:

Orlando City, under the guidance of Head Coach Oscar Pareja, is expected to field a strong, albeit potentially rotated, lineup. Their recent performances in MLS suggest a focus on possession and attacking fluidity.

• Goalkeeper: Pedro Gallese – The experienced Peruvian international is a near certainty in goal.
• Defenders: Ruan, Antônio Carlos, Robin Jansson, and João Moutinho – A solid defensive core, balancing experience and pace.
• Midfielders: Martin Ojeda, César Araújo, and Mauricio Pereyra – This midfield trio offers a potent mix of creativity, defensive solidity, and attacking prowess.
• Forwards: Facundo Torres, Duncan McGuire, and Ercan Kara – A formidable front line capable of causing significant problems for the Rowdies' defense.

Orlando City SC Predicted Bench:

Pareja will likely have a strong bench, offering tactical flexibility throughout the match. Key players to watch from the bench include:

• Goalkeeper: Mason Stajduhar
• Defenders: Kyle Smith, Rodrigo Schlegel
• Midfielders: Andrés Perea, Junior Urso
• Forwards: Gastón González, Ramiro Enrique

Tampa Bay Rowdies Predicted Starting XI:

The Rowdies, competing in the USL Championship, will be eager to cause an upset. Their style is known for its intensity and counter-attacking threat.

• Goalkeeper: Callan Elliot – A reliable presence between the posts.
• Defenders: Jordan Scarlett, Aaron Guillen, and Leo Fernandes – A blend of experience and youth in defense.
• Midfielders: Zach Herold, Sebastian Dalgaard, and Lewis Neal – A dynamic midfield focused on controlling possession and creating chances.
• Forwards: Jake Lafferty, and Messiah Bright – A fast and dangerous attacking duo.

Tampa Bay Rowdies Predicted Bench:

The Rowdies' bench also boasts depth, with players capable of changing the game’s momentum. Expect to see:

• Goalkeeper: Evan Louro
• Defenders: Patrick Abernathy, Forrest Lasso
• Midfielders: Victor Mansaray, Juan Tejada
• Forwards: Max Greaser, Matt LaGrassa

Key Battles to Watch:

• Ojeda vs. Herold: A clash of creative midfielders will be central to the game's flow.
• McGuire vs. Guillen: The aerial battles between Orlando's striker and Tampa's defender will be crucial.
• Torres vs. Scarlett: The pace and skill of these wingers could decide the match.

Conclusion:

This US Open Cup encounter promises to be a thrilling spectacle. Both Orlando City and the Tampa Bay Rowdies have the talent to win, making this an unpredictable and exciting match for fans. While these are just predicted lineups, the intensity and competitiveness are guaranteed to make it a memorable night. Don't miss the action! Check your local listings for broadcast information.

Keywords: US Open Cup, Orlando City SC, Tampa Bay Rowdies, predicted lineup, starting XI, bench, soccer, football, Florida Derby, Oscar Pareja, USL Championship, MLS, match preview, soccer prediction

Related Articles: (These would be internal links to other articles on your site, if applicable)

• [Link to an article about Orlando City's recent form]
• [Link to an article about the history of the Florida Derby]
• [Link to an article about the US Open Cup]