What Would Have Happened: Orlando City vs. LA Galaxy

This weekend was the second missed match day thanks to the coronavirus pandemic. With another week of suspended play, Orlando City did not get the opportunity to play the LA Galaxy. But, thanks to FIFA 20, here is what could have happened if that match went ahead as planned.

I simulated Orlando City’s road game against the Galaxy five times. The average result of the simulations led to a 0-0 draw. Both teams had plenty of chances, but Orlando had most of the highlights.

Defensively, the center back pairing of Robin Jansson and Antonio Carlos dominated the match. They were two of the best players on the field and forced LA to shoot from distance. When the Galaxy did break free, it was the Pedro Gallese show. LA should have scored a handful of times, but the Peruvian kept Orlando in the game.

On the other side of the field, LA’s defense was filled with holes. Orlando constantly broke free and often had open looks inside the box. It looked like the Lions skipped on shooting practice, though, as every shot either went right at goalkeeper David Bingham or missed the frame completely.

The Galaxy had more possession, but Orlando had the better chances. The Lions used possession wisely and quickly got up the field. They had a few moments of excellent possession spells that started in the back and led to an attacking chance. But, for the most part, Orlando used its opportunities on the counter and to quickly get the ball into the Galaxy’s third of the field.

Things changed a bit after halftime. It seemed like LA woke up a bit and started to get more into the game. The majority of the Galaxy’s shots and chances happened in the second half.

The two big-name players were quiet through. Nani and Chicharito both had no significant effect on the match. They each had multiple shots but did not do much in the run of play. 

Of the five games simulated, three were goalless, one ended 1-1, and LA won 1-0 once. In the match that Orlando scored, the Lions actually were outplayed. LA controlled possession and Orlando played more defensively. Nani scored in the first half, and the Lions held onto the lead for almost the entire game until Chicharito scored in the 82nd minute to salvage a draw for the home team.

You can view the best highlights here: