Prediction
Orlando City is still figuring things out as the season races to the midway point. The offseason additions are slowly finding their roles, and the team is approaching its ceiling. Last week's victory in Minnesota wasn't a pretty display of soccer, but a strong result and step in the right direction.
"The league is in a moment where teams are adjusting," Orlando City head coach Oscar Pareja said. "I think all of the coaches are trying to look for the best positioning, the best model and best structure."
Rookie striker Duncan McGuire scored against the Loons and notched his first career goal against DC earlier this season. Perhaps the young forward gets another start with the center forward role still up for grabs. Orlando also needs to figure out how to organize the creative pieces beneath the striker.
Regardless of specific personnel decisions, Orlando should be in for a decent performance. DC United isn't a premier team and the Lions should be able to put on a strong display in front of the home fans.
"Most importantly, as we always say, is to see if we can impose our style and our ways," Pareja said.
With that being said, this is still DC United and that means somethings silly is likely going to happen. Orlando will be the better team on the night, but Wayne Rooney's dark magic strikes again to steal a point from Exploria Stadium.
Score Prediction: 2-2 draw
Goal Scorers: McGuire (ORL) Facundo Torres (ORL); Benteke (DC) Victor Pálsson (DC)