CELEBRATION IN THE TERRANCE
On Sunday, the Lions had several reasons to celebrate.
First and foremost, Orlando City’s original captain’s triumphant return to the Pine Street. In the Summer of 2014, Brazilian star Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite, known as Ricardo Kaka or Kaka, arrived in Orlando, as the centerpiece of the brand-new Major League Soccer (MLS) expansion team. This 32 year old was regarded as one of the best footballers in the world, evident by his success at various levels of the sport. To this point, at the time of his retirement in 2017, Kaka remains one of the only players to win a FIFA World Cup for Brazil, a UEFA Champions League championship with AC Milan, and the Ballon d’Or (European Footballer of the Year) trophy.
Ricardo Kaka played no small role in establishing Orlando City as a contender, as the first star in club history.
Over three seasons in Orlando, the captain totaled 78 appearances, with 25 goals and 22 assists, both ranking fourth all-time in club history. He was named an MLS All-Star in his seasons in Orlando, in addition to being named match MVP in his first appearance in 2015. Beyond his club, Kaka helped lead an important expansion of the MLS, establishing the state of Florida as a key destination for international talent. Bringing much-needed exposure to the MLS experiment, outside of traditional market like Los Angeles, and New York.
So, it’s only right that when Orlando City launched its ‘Terrance of Legends’ program to honor those who have impacted the Orlando community, that the first inductee be the first captain as well.
“This recognition is a testament to our shared journey, and I am truly grateful to be part of the Orlando City and MLS family forever.”
Relive @KAKA being named as the first-ever Legends’ Terrace inductee ⭐️
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) July 10, 2024
D.C. BLANKED
On a night dedicated celebrating an important figure in Orlando City culture, the current Lions contributed to the celebration with a statement of their own. D.C. United arrived in Downtown Orlando looking for a fourth win on the year, and avoiding an seventh straight loss (eleven losses on the year).
Meanwhile, the Lions were on the hunt for a ninth win on the season, to balance with nine losses on the season. Martin Ojeda and company, delivered that ninth win with a dominate performance.
THE CONVERSATION.