Orlando City shocks MLS with streak no one expected to reach this far

Twelve games unbeaten, a perfect home record, and a team suddenly too dangerous to ignore
Orlando City v Portland Timbers
Orlando City v Portland Timbers | Alex Menendez/GettyImages

Orlando City defeated the Portland Timbers 1-0 Saturday at Inter&Co Stadium and added a remarkable milestone to the 2025 MLS season: 12 consecutive matches without a loss. In the process, the Lions moved to 27 points, moved into fourth place in the Eastern Conference, and equaled the club's franchise-record all-time unbeaten record in the league, also the longest active one in this year's season.

Three defining moments in an effortless victory

The win was in an even game, but Orlando learned to control the game better. Showing wise ball possession, they put pressure where they needed to and were strong at the back. By limiting Portland to a mere shot on target in the whole game, the Lions proved they knew exactly what they were doing on the pitch.

The only target of the game came in the 39th. After a poor clearance by the back line, Atuesta collected the ball at the top of the box and saw McGuire far behind the defense. The number 13 hit it first time, low and hard, with no hope for goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau. It was the forward's second of the campaign and his 28th overall with the team.

Orlando City v Portland Timbers
Orlando City v Portland Timbers | Alex Menendez/GettyImages

Home form comes good at the perfect time

Home form is another highlight. Orlando kept its clean record against Portland at Inter&Co Stadium: now three home victories in three home matches against the Timbers. Home-confidence has been growing, and that will prove crucial in the second half of the season.

The solid performance reignites the hunger for better things, be it winning a clear playoff spot or climbing higher on the table. The unbeaten run, as much a symbol as it is, is also psychological momentum for the team. It shows Orlando to be a hard team to beat and is building a truly competitive image.

The final segment of the regular season calls for all-around home effectiveness. And if Orlando keeps taking full advantage of having games at home, they'll be in good position to secure a top conference spot.