It’s time for Luis Muriel to make a statement for Orlando City SC in the 2024 playoffs. He did get on the pitch late in the game. But he’s earned a real shot.
Orlando City SC opened the 2024 MLS playoffs with a 2-0 victory over Charlotte FC. When the game stories got posted, they had no mention of Luis Muriel. He got on the pitch in the 78th minute and played well, but he hasn’t yet gotten his shot.
And he’s earned it.
Scouts rated Facundo Torres the best with the first goal in the match. Then with his assist on the second City goal, Ivan Angulo got Player of the Match.
With his short 12 minutes on the pitch, Muriel did seize the opportunity to, at least, start making a statement. He executed a dispossession and also won one of Orlando’s 12 aerial duels.
Not taking their lead for granted, he attempted six passes, almost all delivered successfully.
Whether coming in off the bench or getting the opportunity to start, Luis Muriel has represented the Orlando City SC story this season. The team’s successful strategy in their march to this post-season has been to play physically, but at the same time execute their plays with skill and intelligence.
Muriel has proved himself one of those skilled squad members.
In 33 games, 1,582 minutes, for Orlando this season, he’s made 37 key passes, executed 250 successful short passes, and kicked 12 long balls. He’s also gotten in 41 aerial duels with a 41.5%.
Orlando City players suffered through a hard start to the 2024 season. At times, some of the staunchest supporters considered giving up hope for the post-season.
Muriel has said the way they got here is hard work. Just that simple. The players committed themselves to hard work before the game, and then again when they get on the pitch for the match.
That’s worked. And it’s time for Luis Muriel to get even more minutes to work in a playoff match for Orlando City SC.