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Orlando City SC routs Minnesota 3-1, books ticket to MiB Final

Orlando City SC has the opportunity to lift the first-ever MLS is Back Tournament trophy on home turf, in their hometown, after defeating Minnesota on Thursday night.
Nani Orlando City SC

Orlando, Florida — Orlando City SC has the chance to hoist the MLS is Back trophy on home soil. It’s not exactly Orlando City Stadium, but the city has been hosting the MLS is Back Tournament since July.

Orlando City SC defeated Minnesota United FC in a match that was full of twists and turns. Minnesota had the better of Orlando in the first 30 minutes. However, after the hydration break, Orlando came out swinging. Particularly, Nani must have gotten a kick from his break.

The Portuguese midfielder scored twice in the first half to give Orlando plenty of confidence, and the lead, over Minnesota. Nani’s first goal came off an excellent first touch, and then he slipped it in between the legs of MNUFC goalkeeper Tyler Miller. That goal occurred in the 36th minute.

Meanwhile, before the first half ended, Nani found the back of the net again. This time, he was able to best his defender in a physical battle and rattled off a tremendous free kick. Nani’s shot curled and Miller couldn’t get enough distance to cover it. Of course, Nani celebrated with a signature back flip.

In the second half, Minnesota found a goal in the 83rd minute. Mason Toye remained onside and slipped his shot past Pedro Gallese. However, any chance of a comeback was stalled by Orlando. With a one-on-one chance, Benji Michel beat Miller and put his shot away on an empty net.

Minnesota is now packing up and heading home up north. Meanwhile, Orlando City has a chance to lift the first-ever MLS is Back Tournament trophy. As mentioned earlier in the tournament, points for matches will go toward the MLS regular season.

Orlando City vs. Portland for MiB Final

Then there were two.

The Portland Timbers beat out the Philadelphia Union last night to secure a spot at the MLS is Back Final. It’s an Eastern Conference team against a Western Conference team, just like a regular MLS Cup Final.

The MLS is Back Final will be held on Tuesday, on ESPN, at 8 p.m. EST.

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