Orlando City B is moving back to the city, as they will join the Orlando Pride and Orlando City in the new downtown stadium. After a successful inaugural season last year, Orlando City B will be looking to improve their standing and do even better in Year Two. With the schedule fresh off the press, here’s a look at the top five matches you should watch this year.
Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Orlando City B - Saturday, March 25th
Orlando City B will have only a short distance to travel for their first match of the season as they face off against their regional rivals, the Tampa Bay Rowdies. The match will be the first for the Rowdies in the USL; they played their last six season in the North American Soccer League (NASL) and made the switch to USL during the offseason. Don’t be surprised when you see a sea of purple welcoming Tampa Bay to the league.
Orlando City B vs. Louisville City FC - Thursday, March 30th
Orlando City B will play their first game in their new stadium on Thursday, March 30th against Louisville City FC. The match will mark not only Orlando City B’s first game in the new stadium, but their first game in Orlando since moving from Brevard during the offseason. Louisville finished as one of the top teams in USL last season, and Orlando City B will need fans help to shut down their Eastern Conference rivals.
Orlando City B vs. FC Cincinnati - Saturday, July 1st
Towards the middle of the season, Orlando City B will host FC Cincinnati. Cincinnati is one of the hottest teams in the USL, with rumors of an MLS move circulating before they even took to the pitch. They did well in their inaugural season last year, finishing 3rd place in the Eastern Conference before losing in the postseason, and will be looking to continue that momentum into the new year.
Orlando City B vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies - Thursday, July 13th
Do we really need to say anything about this one? Expect a packed house as Tampa visits Orlando’s new downtown stadium.
Orlando City B vs. New York Red Bulls II - Saturday, October 7th
Last year, the New York Red Bulls II won the USL Cup and the regular season title. The match-up with Orlando City B could be critical to the Eastern Conference playoff picture. Orlando City B played their first postseason match last year against New York, which they lost 4-0. OCB will definitely be looking for redemption.
