The memory of the moment remains so vivid.
It was July 8, inside ESPN’s Wide World of Sports Complex at Disney World. MLS was moments away from resuming its season, with Orlando City about to kick off against Inter Miami to begin the MLS Is Back tournament. Amid a pandemic and a national battle against social injustice, more soccer was returning in North America, following the start of the NWSL Challenge Cup. There was excitement, but there was also apprehension. From players, coaches and fans, no one knew what to expect.
And then it happened.