Sports
Orlando City SC Extends Unbeaten Streak to Five Games in 1-1 Draw Against New York City FC
Published
2 years agoon
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) – Orlando City SC continued their impressive run of form by extending their unbeaten streak to five games with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against New York City FC. The match, held at Yankee Stadium, saw both teams display tactical prowess and resilience.
The Lions took the lead early in the game with a goal from Mauricio Pereyra, showcasing their attacking intent. However, New York City FC equalized in the second half with a strike from Gabriel Pereira, ensuring the points were shared.
Orlando City’s defense held firm against a persistent NYCFC attack, and goalkeeper Pedro Gallese made several key saves to maintain the draw. This result keeps Orlando City firmly in the playoff contention, demonstrating their consistency and competitive edge in the league.
Key Highlights:
- Goals: Mauricio Pereyra (Orlando City), Gabriel Pereira (NYCFC)
- Strong Defense: Pedro Gallese’s crucial saves helped secure the draw.
- Unbeaten Streak: Orlando City extends their unbeaten run to five games.
Orlando City SC Head Coach Oscar Pareja
Opening Statement
“Big effort from the players after these couple weeks that we had been playing every three days. I would like to value that effort. Two teams tried to put a good performance, and from our side, in the first half, we had control, but we were not as dangerous as we were coming in the prior games. They kept possession sometimes in their half, but not a dangerous place so we were in that side control. But we wanted more. Nico [Lodeiro] was helping us just to do a job, or in a position that is not very frequent for him, but I think he did great. And in the second half, it seems like we brought more energy and we started creating better chances and we have the game 1-0, which is something that this year has been a challenge for us to open the games. And then this goal that we concede, this is where we have that sensation of frustration for us that it was not that they did a lot of stuff to tie the game…and we had a few very clear options, including that last one that I, we all thought it was Luis [Muriel’s] moment to unbalance the game. We work with a bit of frustration, but as well, we are very proud of what the boys have done.”
On adjusting to New York’s press after midweek game
“They have very talented players, especially up front, and not just one or two. But I think all of them have that differential in the technique, and they’re dangerous there. And, especially in the first half, they changed the structure from the way they played the last games. And it caused us a little to adjust. We were trying kind of to readjust, and the way they were pressuring us in the beginning, it caused us to adapt to it. Then, we make a couple variations in the way we arrive from behind, and we have some advantages positionally with Rafa [Santos] and we moved Wilder [Cartagena] and César [Araújo], just try to unclog the game there. And I think we were successful at that. That’s why the second half looked like we were better. But you’re right, in the first half it was tough just to get out of that pressure or to find our best ways to do it. There were so many times we were feeling uncomfortable.”
On New York City FC’s goal and the tactical changes for the team
“They came and pressured our midfielders. We really understand the game well when we have that kind of pressure and how to use our spaces. We know that they pressed us and how we can jump lines and not get it through that first man, in this case Wilder or César. But we just find the far guys that are able to receive. In the first half we couldn’t see much. We started to find our midfielders, but they were under pressure after the first pass. I was patient with it because I noticed after 20 minutes that New York started getting tired and they reduced the pressure which allowed us to find the spaces. In the second half while they were pressing, we were missing that pass. That’s where the frustration came from because it was not much more than that. It was this moment that changed our result. I have to give credit to the boys because it’s easy in those moments to just start kicking the ball around but we’re not that. We’re a team who can change the game back to our radar of sequences. But I’m not taking that personally.”
Orlando City SC Forward Ramiro Enrique
Opening Statement
“First off, thank you. It always makes me happy to score a goal. As a striker it’s really important to be able to score, but I think tonight we leave the game with a little bit of a sour taste in our mouths because we felt like we had that game and that we should’ve won. But to be able to score again is always good.”
On breaking through New York City FC’s defense
“This is a team that plays really well and with superiority, especially with the quality of their goalkeeper, [Matt Freese], it’s really difficult to score on him and convert those chances. But at the end of the day we still have to play with our ideas and find our touches and I think tonight we were really strong with our ideas of the long balls, the diagonals and being superior in that, and thankfully we were able to find a way to score tonight. But it’s just really difficult to play against them.”
On what he learned tonight playing against a tough defense
“I think confidence, right? Confidence in what we’re doing and how we’re playing and the way that we’re going about things. I think we’re playing really well; we’re continuing to work hard. We’re doing things really well, so just continuing to bring that forward into each and every game, continue to play each game and approach each game with attitude, humility and professionalism as we’ve been approaching these last games, and just to continue doing that and leave, continue leaving everything we have out on the field each game.”
Orlando City SC Defender Robin Jansson
Opening Statement
“Tough game. Two teams that really wanted it. I think New York [City FC] was a little bit better in the first half and we were a little bit better in the second, getting some good chances and it was a tough one today. They did it well and it was hard to play them, but overall, I think coming from a game two days ago and going into this one, I think we did a great job, the whole team. We scored first and they equalized which feels bitter directly after, but we take the points and move on.”
On the pace of tonight’s game
“I think you can put all those criteria in there. It’s been a tough week for most of the team, but at the end of the day it’s our job and we tried to go for the three points. We were up 1-0 but we got one point. When the game is this tight, we take the points and move on from here and we have found great momentum in the game before winning four in a row. Just continue grinding as a team. I think we have the unit working better together on the field that’s more synchronized with the way we work both offensively and defensively.”
On adjusting to New York City FC’s play style
“We knew before that they normally step up with their midfielders, but today we wanted to play more through the middle. But you have to adapt and find an easier game when you know they’re coming to press you. We knew it before. They’re very good at finding balls earlier in behind to put pressure on you in space. I think in the second half we did better coming in behind them.”
Sports
U.S. U-19 Men’s National Team Advances to Fifth Straight Concacaf U-20 Championship Final With 2-0 Win Over Costa Rica
Published
1 week agoon
August 10, 2026By
FNN SPORTS
MEXICO CITY (FNN SPORTS) — The U.S. Under-19 Men’s National Team advanced to its fifth consecutive Concacaf U-20 Championship final with a 2-0 semifinal victory over Costa Rica on Friday at Estadio Banorte in Mexico City.
Ruben Ramos scored in the 36th minute and captain Christopher Applewhite added the insurance goal in the 76th as the United States continued its run of championship-game appearances dating to 2017.
The Americans finished with a 17-8 advantage in total shots and put seven attempts on goal while limiting Costa Rica to two shots on target.
Ramos Breaks Through in First Half
The United States controlled much of the early action and created several opportunities during the opening 20 minutes.
Forward Jaidyn Contreras repeatedly challenged the Costa Rican defense and delivered dangerous service into the penalty area, helping the Americans generate multiple set-piece opportunities.
The breakthrough finally came in the 36th minute.
Costa Rica defender Emmanuel Brenes attempted to play the ball out of his own half, but U.S. midfielder Alexander Shaw intercepted the pass and directed the ball forward to Ramos.
Ramos advanced into space before firing a right-footed shot from distance. The attempt took a slight deflection off a Costa Rican defender, changing its path and beating goalkeeper Ian O’Rourke to give the United States a 1-0 lead.
The goal was Ramos’ fourth in five tournament matches.
U.S. Defense Protects Lead
The United States continued pressing after halftime.
Ramos nearly scored again in the 59th minute, unleashing a powerful left-footed shot that forced O’Rourke into a two-handed save.
Costa Rica attempted to find an equalizer as the second half progressed, but the American defense held firm.
Colin Guske helped clear a dangerous opportunity before Braden Dunham made a sliding defensive play to eliminate another Costa Rican attack.
Applewhite Adds Insurance Goal
The United States doubled its advantage in the 76th minute following a free kick.
Tristan Brown sent the service into the six-yard box, where Applewhite slid into position and redirected the ball into the net for a 2-0 lead.
The Americans protected the advantage through the final whistle to secure another appearance in the Concacaf championship match.
U.S. Dominates Statistical Battle
The United States finished with seven shots on goal compared with Costa Rica’s two and held a 7-2 advantage in corner kicks.
U.S. goalkeeper William Lodmell made two saves to complete the clean sheet.
Costa Rica goalkeeper O’Rourke finished with five saves.
Both teams were called for nine fouls.
Match Summary
2026 Concacaf U-20 Men’s Championship Semifinal
United States 2, Costa Rica 0
Scoring
- USA — Ruben Ramos (Alexander Shaw), 36th minute
- USA — Christopher Applewhite (Tristan Brown), 76th minute
Shots: USA 17, Costa Rica 8
Shots on goal: USA 7, Costa Rica 2
Corner kicks: USA 7, Costa Rica 2
Saves: USA 2, Costa Rica 5
Fouls: USA 9, Costa Rica 9
U.S. Reaches Fifth Consecutive Final
The victory sent the Americans to their fifth consecutive Concacaf U-20 Championship final and put them in position to compete for another regional title.
The United States entered the championship match seeking its fourth Concacaf U-20 title during its recent run of tournament success.
Florida
Todd Bowles Says Buccaneers’ Newcomers Have Been ‘Breath of Fresh Air’ Ahead of Jets Joint Practices
Published
1 week agoon
August 10, 2026By
FNN SPORTS
Chris Godwin Jr. is healthier, Ted Hurst III continues to impress and Tampa Bay prepares to test its revamped roster against New York
TAMPA, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles says the combination of veteran and rookie additions has brought a noticeable change in leadership, attitude and toughness to the team as Tampa Bay prepares for joint practices with the New York Jets.
Following Sunday’s training camp practice, Bowles praised the impact of the Buccaneers’ offseason additions and said the difference has been significant.
“It’s huge. I mean, it’s night and day with the veterans that came in and with the rookies that have come in, just from a leadership standpoint, an attitude standpoint, a mentality and study habits,” Bowles said.
Bowles specifically mentioned Kenny Gainwell, Alex Anzalone, A’Shawn Robinson, Josiah Trotter, Rueben Bain Jr. and Rakeem Nuñez-Roches among players helping shape the team’s mentality.
“It’s been a breath of fresh air to see, and everybody gravitates toward them,” Bowles said.
Bowles: Chris Godwin Jr. ‘Peaking at the Right Time’
One of the more encouraging developments for Tampa Bay has been the condition of veteran wide receiver Chris Godwin Jr.
Bowles said Godwin enters this stage of camp healthier than he has been in recent years.
“I think he’s healthier right now,” Bowles said. “Years past he’s been hurt the last two [training camps], but he’s a lot healthier right now.”
Bowles praised Godwin’s mental sharpness, toughness and leadership while emphasizing that the veteran remains an important playmaker in both the passing and blocking games.
“I think right now he’s peaking at the right time,” Bowles said.
Ted Hurst III Making His Case
Wide receiver Ted Hurst III also drew attention during Sunday’s practice, particularly for his ability to make contested catches.
“He can go up and get the ball,” Bowles said. “You see it on his college tape as well, and those are good things to see.”
Hurst said he is trying to establish that ability as a defining part of his game.
“[I’m] just trying to be myself and exploit and show that that’s my game, going up, attacking the ball,” Hurst said.
Cornerback Jacob Parrish also singled out Hurst when asked which receivers have challenged him during camp.
“I’ll say Ted Hurst [III] — he had a very good catch on me today, actually,” Parrish said. “He’s a rookie, very tall, good at running, very fast.”
Hurst said his first NFL training camp has reinforced how much attention to detail is required at the professional level.
“These are the best athletes in the world and everything’s detailed,” Hurst said.
Buccaneers Defense Showing New Energy
Parrish said Tampa Bay’s defensive additions have brought a different attitude to the unit.
“I would say it’s just the energy and the guys we brought in,” Parrish said. “They got an edge to them.”
Bowles also praised Parrish’s development, describing him as one of Tampa Bay’s best coverage defenders alongside Zyon McCollum.
“He’s very quick,” Bowles said. “He’s right up there with Zyon as one of our best cover guys, and he can play inside as well, so that makes him very versatile.”
Bowles said Parrish’s improved understanding of the defensive scheme has allowed him to rely on more than his athletic ability entering his second season.
Josiah Trotter Brings Old-School Physicality
Bowles offered a colorful assessment of linebacker Josiah Trotter when asked what distinguishes him from other linebackers he has coached.
“He’s almost like a new-school linebacker in an old-school body,” Bowles said.
The coach said Trotter combines size and athleticism with an aggressive downhill playing style.
“He really knows how to play the game, and he really plays with intent to do serious harm,” Bowles said.
Parrish similarly praised Trotter’s intensity while discussing Tampa Bay’s young defensive players.
Rueben Bain Jr. Impresses Nuñez-Roches
Veteran defensive lineman Rakeem Nuñez-Roches, back with Tampa Bay after spending time with the New York Giants, said he has been impressed with rookie outside linebacker Rueben Bain Jr.’s approach.
“Rueben is impressive,” Nuñez-Roches said. “Just to see him with his poise, the way that he stacks his rushes, his approach to the game, even just the way he watches his film on the sideline in between plays.”
Nuñez-Roches said Bain actively seeks advice on ways to improve between plays.
“I can’t wait to see what he does this season,” Nuñez-Roches said.
Ayden Garnes Continues Development
Bowles also highlighted cornerback Ayden Garnes as a young player showing significant improvement since offseason workouts.
Bowles said Garnes appears to have developed a better understanding of Tampa Bay’s defensive scheme, allowing him to play faster and more consistently.
Hurst also praised Garnes’ preparation and film study.
“Every time I walk around, I see him looking at film or I just see him studying this game and taking it to the field,” Hurst said. “He’s definitely a great competitor.”
Buccaneers Turn Attention to Jets
Tampa Bay’s next test comes against unfamiliar competition as the Buccaneers prepare for joint practices with the New York Jets in New Jersey.
Bowles said practicing against another organization provides an opportunity to evaluate whether Tampa Bay’s players can execute their assignments against a different system.
“Here, it can get a little mundane when you go against the same guy every day,” Bowles said.
The joint practices will also give Tampa Bay coaches an opportunity to evaluate players such as David Walker against outside competition.
Bowles emphasized that the objective is productive football work — not fighting.
“That’s not what we’re going up there for,” Bowles said. “We’re going up there to practice and get better.”
With Tampa Bay moving deeper into its preseason preparations, Bowles said Sunday’s practice provided another sign that the offense and defense are beginning to operate more cohesively.
“We’re functioning better as a unit,” Bowles said, “so that’s the overall picture for both sides of the football going into next week.”
Sports
McCumbee McAleer Racing Parts Ways With Nate Cicero, New Driver Announcement Coming
Published
1 week agoon
August 10, 2026By
FNN SPORTS
McCumbee McAleer Racing says Nate Cicero is no longer associated with the organization in any capacity and plans to announce a new driver in the coming days.
(FNN SPORTS) — McCumbee McAleer Racing has ended its relationship with Nate Cicero, effective immediately, the organization announced in an official statement.
“We are disappointed to announce that our relationship with Nate Cicero has come to an end. Effective immediately, Nate is no longer associated with MMR in any capacity. We will have no further comment on the topic,” the team said.
MMR Provides No Details on Cicero’s Departure
McCumbee McAleer Racing did not disclose what led to the decision and indicated it does not plan to provide additional comment on the matter.
The announcement marks an immediate change for the racing organization as it looks ahead to its next driver lineup.
Team Says Focus Is on Moving Forward
Despite the change, MMR said it remains focused on its racing program and the organization’s future.
“We remain focused on moving forward and continuing to build on MMR’s goals and success,” the team said.
New Driver Announcement Expected
McCumbee McAleer Racing said fans will not have to wait long to learn who will join the team next.
“As we look to our future, we will be making a driver announcement in the coming days,” MMR said.
The team did not identify the incoming driver or provide a specific date for the announcement.
FNN Sports will continue to follow developments and provide updates when McCumbee McAleer Racing announces its new driver.
