New York City Football Club host Orlando City SC at Citi Field on Wednesday.
For this edition of 'The Away End' presented by Berkeley College & Rennert International, we spoke to Luis Carlos Pineda, a journalist and host of the Loud and Proud Orlando podcast.
Hi Luis, thanks for speaking with us. How long have you been covering the team?
I’ve been covering Orlando City since 2020.
What has been your highlight in that time?
The best highlight would be the night that Orlando City won the U.S Open Cup against Sacramento Republic. It was the first major title in the club's history and the first major trophy for the City of Orlando.
How would you evaluate their 2023 season so far?
So far I would say Orlando’s 2023 season has been successful. I would say it began with a slow start at home with Coach Pareja’s squad trying to find their best form. They have now extended their home unbeaten streak to 11 straight home matches and are unbeaten in their last five matches, earning victories in four of them.
What are your hopes for the team for the rest of the season?
Ending the regular season as high in the standings as possible and hopefully advance to the second round of the MLS playoffs.
What do you think will be the deciding factor in the game on Wednesday?
I think it's important that Orlando are more sound defensively and stay compact - especially against a team like NYCFC. I'd also say when the team is in transition Orlando’s strikers need to finish their chances and not always look for an extra pass.
For any fans that might be in Orlando for a game in the near future, are there any pregame spots you suggest they check out?
I would suggest The Basement Orlando and Wall Street Plaza.
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