Major League Soccer
Orlando City SC 2-1 Real Salt Lake: Griezmann double secures comeback win
Antoine Griezmann scored twice in the second half to lift Orlando City SC past Real Salt Lake at Exploria Stadium.
Orlando City SC completed a resilient comeback victory over Real Salt Lake at Exploria Stadium, with Antoine Griezmann scoring both goals in the second half to secure a 2-1 win in this MLS Regular Season clash.
The visitors had taken a commanding lead just before halftime when D. Marczuk struck in the 36th minute, capitalizing on an assist from S. Junqua to put Real Salt Lake ahead 1-0 heading into the break.
Orlando responded quickly after the restart when Griezmann pulled one back in the 53rd minute, showcasing composure in front of goal to cut the deficit and energize the home crowd.
The momentum continued to shift as Real Salt Lake struggled to regain their composure, with Lineker Rodrigues earning a yellow card in the 43rd minute and A. Katranis following suit in stoppage time before halftime.
Griezmann then completed his brace in the 81st minute, slotting home confidently to give Orlando City SC the lead for the first time in the match.
Despite late pressure from Real Salt Lake, including a yellow card for K. Henry in the 71st minute, Orlando held firm, with E. Atuesta picking up a booking in the 82nd minute as the hosts defended their advantage.
The win moves Orlando City SC to 24 points through 21 games in the Eastern Conference, while Real Salt Lake remains on 28 points after 20 matches in the Western Conference.
Referee Fotis Bazakos oversaw a tense finale as Orlando managed to protect their lead, earning all three points in a match that showcased both teams' determination.
Both coaches, Oscar Pareja for Orlando and Pablo Mastroeni for Real Salt Lake, will reflect on a match filled with drama and late drama at Exploria Stadium.