Antoine Griezmann urges Orlando City to improve defensive starts

Orlando City SC prepares to face Minnesota United FC following a period of improved form for both clubs. Antoine Griezmann has called on his teammates to address a trend of conceding early in matches, noting that while the team starts well with possession, they often lack defensive energy and pressure in the opening stages.

Orlando has recently broken a three-game winless streak with a 2-1 victory over Real Salt Lake, a match in which Griezmann scored twice. Despite the win, the team has fallen behind in each of their last four MLS outings. Since the World Cup break, Orlando has secured three wins in six matches.

Minnesota United enters the matchup following a dominant 5-1 win against the San Jose Earthquakes, marking one of their largest regular-season margins of victory. The team has recently utilized a 5-2-1-2 formation that has provided tactical stability, allowing players like Joaquín Pereyra more creative freedom.