Throughout the MLS is Back tournament, Orlando City has performed in a way that is at odds with its history in the league. Not only has the Lions' patient buildup been pleasing to the eye, but the team has been defensively solid, conceding three goals in four games. The results has been better, too: Orlando finished atop Group A, with wins over NYCFC and Inter Miami to go with a 1-1 draw against the red-hot Philadelphia Union, and dispatched the Montreal Impact 1-0 in the round of 16.
Then the Lions showed how they have completely broken with their brutal past, winning their quarterfinal over league powerhouse LAFC on penalties after normal time finished 1-1.