On August 6, Orlando City will attempt to make a name for themselves after years of underperformance when they host the reigning MLS Cup champions Atlanta United for a shot at the U.S Open Cup final.

The Lions have never earned a playoff berth, they’ve never even had a season with more wins than losses – and a win could cement that the franchise is headed in the right direction.

The furthest the Lions ever got in the U.S Open Cup, a knockout tournament that any professional or semi-professional American team can receive a bid in, has been the quarterfinals in 2013, 2015, and 2018. With an envigorated fanbase behind them and the new talent on the team, this Orlando side may even be able to win it all.

This match is important for Orlando because it could be their first silverware since their promotion to the MLS.  The Lions may have their deepest roster ever with the inclusion of Nani, which has been a great signing for them and has been involved in so many goals, and the rise of Chris Mueller and Ruan Teixeira, who have been incredible contributors.

But even so, Atlanta will be a big roadblock. Orlando has never beat Atlanta, which is worrying, but the United have not played against this Orlando squad before. Orlando can take advantage of this opportunity to show what they’ve got and that they are serious about going all in. The game will take place on August 6 at 7:30 p.m at Orlando’s Exploria Stadium.