In the match valid for week 18, Evander showcased his skills by scoring twice, propelling FC Cincinnati to a 2-1 victory over Orlando City SC. He broke the initial deadlock with a stunning free-kick goal in the 49th minute of the first half. Afterward, in the 29th minute of the second half, he proved his excellent form again by finding the net, ensuring his team’s win. Despite Orlando’s efforts, which included Marco Pasalic’s goal during the 42nd minute of the second half, they couldn’t close the gap. Pasalic scored after receiving a fine assist from Martín Ojeda, placing his shot low into the left corner—an effort impossible for the goalkeeper to stop!
Evander’s remarkable performance earned him the title of Man of the Match. The FC Cincinnati midfielder not only netted two crucial goals but also attempted four shots on target.
Marco Pasalic was another standout at the Inter and Co Stadium. The midfielder for Orlando City SC responded strongly, having scored one goal himself and making six attempts towards the goal.
Orlando’s coach, Óscar Pareja, deployed a 4-4-2 formation with Pedro Gallese in goal; a defensive line consisting of Dagur Thórhallsson, Rodrigo Schlegel, Robin Jansson, and David Brekalo; while Marco Pasalic, Eduard Atuesta, César Araujo, and Iván Angulo anchored the midfield, leaving Martín Ojeda and Ramiro Enrique up front.
On the other side, FC Cincinnati, led by coach Pat Noonan, showcased a solid 5-3-2 strategy with Roman Celentano guarding the net; DeAndre Yedlin, Matt Miazga, Gilberto Flores, Teenage Hadebe, and Lukas Ahlefeld Engel forming the defense; while Evander, Brian Anunga, and Pavel Bucha occupied midfield; and Gerardo Valenzuela and Kévin Denkey spearheaded the attack.
The match at the Inter and Co Stadium was officiated by referee Marcos de Oliveira.
Looking ahead, Orlando will travel to face Charlotte FC in their next fixture, while FC Cincinnati prepares to host Chicago Fire.
Substitutions for Orlando City SC
45’ 2T – Iván Angulo replaced by Luis Muriel
70’ 2T – Rodrigo Schlegel substituted for Rafael Santos
80’ 2T – Dagur Thórhallsson and Lukas Ahlefeld Engel were replaced by Kyle Smith and Bradley Smith respectively
89’ 2T – Martín Ojeda was substituted by Nicolas Rodriguez
Yellow Cards for Orlando City SC:
44’ 1T – Marco Pasalic (Unsporting behavior)
8’ 2T – Ramiro Enrique (Unsporting behavior)
49’ 2T – David Brekalo (Unsporting behavior)
Substitutions for FC Cincinnati
59’ 2T – Gerardo Valenzuela was replaced by Kei Kamara
82’ 2T – Teenage Hadebe and Evander were substituted off for Alvas Powell and Corey Baird respectively.
Yellow Cards for FC Cincinnati:
42’ 1T – Gilberto Flores (Unsporting behavior)
44’ 1T – DeAndre Yedlin (Unsporting behavior)
48’ 2T – Corey Baird (Unsporting behavior)