Orlando City holds off NYCFC to christen new stadium with win

Updated: May 17, 2023, 05:47 am

Orlando City SC christened its brand-new stadium with a 1-0 win against New York City FC in front of a sold-out crowd.

Cyle Larin had the home supporters going wild in the 15th minute when he headed home at the far post from a Giles Barnes cross for the game's only goal.

Barnes had just entered the match as a substitute for Orlando City captain Kaka, who went down with an injury in the opening 10 minutes of the match.

David Villa played Alexander Ring through in the 31st minute with a fine flick, but Orlando's Joe Bendik smothered the attempt to preserve the hosts' lead.

Cyle Larin celebrates after scoring a goal for Orlando City against New York City FC.
Cyle Larin celebrates after scoring a goal for Orlando City against New York City FC.
Alex Menendez/Getty Images

NYCFC dominated possession and chances throughout the first half, but Orlando held on to lead 1-0 at half-time.

Jack Harrison should have had the visitors level in the 53rd minute, but another save from Bendik denied the New York City midfielder's well-hit shot from close range.

The Orlando heat seemed to wear on both teams as the game progressed, with both New York City's Rodney Wallace and Orlando's Larin being subbed off after the hour mark.

New York substitute Sean Okoli was next to test Bendik, twice breaking free behind the Orlando defense and firing from the top of the penalty area and twice being denied by hosts' goalkeeper.