Orlando City concluded the Leagues Cup group stage with a home match against Santos Laguna at Exploria Stadium. Both teams utilized the same 4-2-3-1 formation.
Just two minutes into the game, Santos player Duvan Vergara initiated an impressive run from the right wing, penetrating Orlando's defense and attempting a shot that was expertly saved by Pedro Gallese, preventing Santos from taking an early lead.
In response, Orlando launched a promising offensive play, with Jansson finding space and passing to Duncan, who unfortunately couldn't capitalize on the opportunity, hitting the post.
Orlando maintained offensive pressure during the first 20 minutes, but despite creating several chances, they were unable to find the back of the net.
In the 24th minute, Angulo had a clear-cut chance to score but unfortunately sent the ball over the crossbar.
Shortly thereafter, Angulo's control error allowed a shot from the Santos player, resulting in a goal as the ball bounced awkwardly before reaching Gallese.
The match intensified as Santos and Duncan combined once again, leveling the score at 1-1, with Duncan securing his 10th goal of the season and solidifying his position as the standout rookie.
The second half witnessed an exceptional goal from Mauricio Pereyra, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance to stop it.
As the game approached its conclusion, both teams intensified their efforts to secure the winning goal, and Araujo displayed creativity by delivering a crucial assist to midfielder Wilder Cartagena, who stepped up as a forward and scored the decisive goal, securing Orlando's spot in the Round of 32 against Inter Miami CF, featuring stars like Messi and Busquets.
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