Orlando City Hosts Atlanta United in Heated MLS Playoff Rivalry

The Eastern Conference semifinal pits fourth-seeded Orlando against underdog Atlanta, fresh off a stunning upset over Inter Miami.

Atlanta United, the ninth seed, has defied expectations with a Cinderella playoff run, including a dramatic upset over Lionel Messi's Inter Miami in the first round.
Orlando City, the highest remaining seed in the East, seeks its first MLS Cup Final appearance and has home-field advantage at Inter&Co Stadium.
Orlando's Facundo Torres and goalkeeper Pedro Gallese have been standout performers, while Atlanta's Jamal Thiaré and Pedro Amador have emerged as key contributors in the postseason.
The rivalry between these two teams has grown intense over the years, with Atlanta winning both regular-season matchups, but Orlando improving under coach Oscar Pareja.
Atlanta interim coach Rob Valentino, a former Orlando City player, has rallied his team despite roster challenges, while Pareja's experience gives Orlando a potential edge.