Orlando City players and coaches solve the back-five formation | OneFootball

Opponents will think twice this season before mounting a back-five formation against Orlando City SC.

Orlando City SC faced a relentless back-five formation from the Portland Timbers. Although the opponents at times all but, the Lions prevailed. They took their one chance and banked it.

In the 39th minute, forward Duncan McGuire got behind the Timbers’ defenders to receive the ball from midfielder Eduard Atuesta. He directed it into the net for the only score of the match.

In a classic back-five, teams assemble their greatest strength to protect the goal. While in possession, they work to create width high up the pitch. Yet, the Portland Timbers still experienced a problem on offense during their match against Orlando.

By emphasizing their defense, the Timbers forsook offense in the first half. They were depending on Orlando continuing their problems in the second half. But during the final period, the Timbers only got off two shots on target.

In recent matches, Head Coach Oscar Pareja emphasized that Orlando needed more energy during the second half. For this game against the Timbers, the opponents got only one shot that went as far as Lions goalkeeper Pedro Gallese. The other on-target was blocked first by defender Alex Freeman.

May 24, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando City forward Luis Muriel (9) takes a shot on goal during the first half against the Portland Timbers at Inter&Co Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images | Mike Watters-Imagn Images

That’s because the Lions emphasized defense, also. But Orlando City was able to balance their performance with just enough offense to earn their three points.

The Lions were able to exploit the main weakness of the back five. That is the space that naturally occurs between the wing-backs and center. Orlando knew what to do when the Timbers showed this formation.

Although the Timbers powered up their defense to prevent further damage, they couldn’t transition effectively to offense. Their fate was sealed.

It’s doubtful Orlando City SC will see much more of the back-five formation this season. But they’ll have to be ready for other effective formations. They’ll have to get ready soon.