Defender Alex Freeman has been making his case for Orlando City SC starts since early last summer. In the team’s first 2025 win, he made a shot hear around the pitch.
In June last season Orlando City SC desperately needed speed in the second half of matches. So in a game against Charlotte FC they were drawn late, 2-2. In second-half stoppage time, they brought in defender Alex Freeman, who substituted for midfielder Ivan Angulo.
He knew he needed this opportunity to make his case. So he saw a chance and took it. He took the chance by taking a shot. It was on-target, the club’s ninth of the match.
Even with that limited showing in that match, Freeman demonstrated to his coaches and teammates a razor-sharp focus on matches as they progressed. He also dedicated himself to the Lions’ mission.
Freeman made his first career start and scored his first MLS goal against Toronto FC. The match became a 4-2 win. However, Freeman said he never lost focus of the mission his teammates had taken on.
In the post-game conference following that match, Freeman left no doubt about the dedication to the Lions’ mission shared by him and his teammates.
Orlando City players were incensed that they left the pitch after the second half without a clean sheet. Freeman said they scored more in the second half and ensured a favorable final result. But he emphasized that their goal is a clean sheet.
So Orlando will continue to hone their defensive skills and match strategy. Yet, that emphasis does not diminish the celebration that an eager defender on the squad can see a chance and bank it with a score.
His goal against Toronto wasn’t an easy one. The touch began on his thigh. But he knew it was a good touch. Freeman instinctively looked at the goal for where he could place his left foot.
Training took over, resulting in the score by Freeman. There will be more from him as well as his teammates.
Training takes over.