ORLANDO, Fla. — The stage is set for a high-stakes rematch as Orlando City SC hosts Atlanta United in the quarterfinals of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on May 19, 2026, at 7:30 PM ET.
Why it matters: This match is not just another game; it’s a chance for both teams to secure a spot in the semifinals of a prestigious tournament. Following their recent 1-1 draw, both clubs are under pressure to find consistency and advance.
- The U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals bring added urgency, with the winner facing off against the victor of the Columbus Crew-New York City FC matchup.
- Orlando City has struggled this season, sitting on 14 points, just three shy of playoff positions, whereas Atlanta trails with 11 points, six behind.
- This match marks the second meeting between the two sides in less than a week, raising the stakes for both teams.
Driving the news: In their last encounter on May 16, 2026, Atlanta United salvaged a point with a late equalizer from Jay Fortune in the 86th minute, after Griffin Dorsey gave Orlando City an early lead.
- Dorsey scored in the 18th minute with assists from Iván Angulo and Martín Ojeda, marking his second goal of the season.
- Fortune's goal was assisted by substitutes Matthew Edwards and Stian Gregersen, who entered the match in the 68th minute.
- Both teams have shown they can compete fiercely, setting the stage for another thrilling encounter.
State of play: Orlando City has made some changes in their lineup for the quarterfinals, with Javier Otero starting in goal and Tiago replacing Marco Pašalić, who is on the bench.
- Tyrese Spicer is sidelined due to a knock sustained during training, impacting Orlando's depth.
- Orlando's starting XI includes key players like Robin Jansson, Eduard Atuesta, and Braian Ojeda.
- Atlanta United's Miguel Almirón is questionable with a knee issue, and Fafa Picault is also listed as questionable due to a hamstring problem.
The big picture: Historically, Orlando City has struggled against Atlanta United, with a record of 5-11-8 in league play and 0-1-0 in U.S. Open Cup matches.
- In their recent history, Orlando City managed a 3-0 victory against Atlanta on April 26, 2026, indicating they can compete effectively.
- Orlando City has shown resilience in knockout competitions, having advanced past FC Naples and New England Revolution in the earlier rounds.
- Atlanta United, meanwhile, has been in solid form, winning their last two road games in the U.S. Open Cup.
What they're saying: Players and coaches are gearing up for the match with a focus on tactical adjustments.
- Atlanta United head coach Tata Martino emphasized the need for tactical analysis after their previous matchup, stating, "There are things that we've seen in the last match that we need to account for."
- Jay Hibbert, Atlanta's designated Open Cup goalkeeper, expressed eagerness for any opportunity, saying, "I'm trying to do anything I can to help the team, and in doing so, get me on the field."
- Orlando City’s coach highlighted the challenges of playing three matches in a week, stressing the importance of energy management.
By the numbers: Key statistics from their last match offer insight into the teams' performances.
- Atlanta United held 56.5% possession compared to Orlando City's 43.5% during the last match.
- Atlanta outshot Orlando 20 to 5, showing a more aggressive offensive strategy.
- Orlando City has a home record of 3-3-1 this season, whereas Atlanta United has struggled on the road with a record of 1-3-1.
What's next: Both teams are looking to build momentum with the semifinals approaching.
- The winner will advance to face the winner of the Columbus Crew-New York City FC matchup, adding significance to this quarterfinal clash.
- Orlando City will need to capitalize on their home advantage, especially after playing more matches recently.
- Fans can watch the match live on CBS Sports Golazo and stream it on Amazon Prime Video, which is offering a 30-day free trial for new subscribers.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff at Inter&Co Stadium, anticipation builds for what will likely be an electrifying encounter between these fierce rivals.