Orlando City settles for draw after late Atlanta United equalizer

By Alonso Contreras

Orlando City SC let two points slip away late in the match as Atlanta United FC scored in the 86th minute to secure a 1-1 draw.

Orlando started strong and found the opening goal in the 18th minute. Griffin Dorsey finished inside the box after a quick attacking sequence assisted by Iván Angulo and Martín Ojeda.

Atlanta controlled long stretches of possession and continued to pressure Orlando’s defense throughout the match, especially during the second half.

Goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau made several important saves to keep Orlando in front, while defenders repeatedly blocked dangerous shots from players like Alexey Miranchuk and Matías Galarza.

Despite Orlando’s defensive effort, Atlanta finally found the equalizer in the 86th minute when Jay Fortune scored with a right-footed strike into the top corner after sustained pressure inside the final minutes.

Orlando had opportunities to extend the lead earlier in the second half, including chances from Martín Ojeda and Griffin Dorsey, but could not capitalize.

Atlanta nearly completed the comeback in stoppage time, but Crépeau denied Matías Galarza with another key save to preserve the point for Orlando.

The draw continues a difficult stretch for Orlando City as the team once again relied heavily on defending deep and protecting a narrow lead instead of controlling the match offensively.

Goal Scorers

• 18’ — Griffin Dorsey (Orlando City)

• 86’ — Jay Fortune (Atlanta United)

Key Performers

• Maxime Crépeau (Orlando City)

• Griffin Dorsey (Orlando City)

• Alexey Miranchuk (Atlanta United)

• Jay Fortune (Atlanta United)