Being a die-hard Arsenal and Orlando City SC supporter myself, I couldn’t believe yesterday’s news that City will be facing the Gunners in a mid-season friendly at Exploria Stadium on Wednesday, July 20.
Dubbed the FC Series Clash of Nations 2022, this is Orlando City SC‘s first ever friendly with Arsenal, a game sure to capture the imagination in Central Florida.
The kick-off time for Orlando City SC vs Arsenal is still yet to be confirmed.
However, we do know that Arsenal will also face London rivals Chelsea at Camping World Stadium on July 23.
The latter game forges part of the 2022 Florida Cup. As for the FC Series, this is a national expansion of the pre-existing tournament.
Arsenal’s visit to Orlando is extremely welcome. Especially after the Gunners unfortunately withdrew from the 2021 Florida Cup due to COVID-19 fears.
After Inter Milan also pulled out, Everton beat Millonarios and Pumas U.N.A.M. to become 2021 Florida Cup champions.
Speaking about Arsenal’s summer visit to The City Beautiful, Orlando City SC President of Business Operations, Jarrod Dillon said: “We’re excited to be able to provide our fans and the greater Orlando soccer community the opportunity to experience one of the world’s most iconic clubs.
“This is going to be a match that no one will want to miss.”
Looking at Orlando City SC‘s 2022 MLS schedule, the July 20 Arsenal friendly means City will play three times in just seven days.
Facing rivals Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on July 17, Oscar Pareja‘s Lions then host Philadelphia Union on July 23.
I never ever, ever thought the two clubs I support would be facing each other in an international friendly but here we are. 😍
Incredible news to take in this Tuesday. 🤩@Arsenal’s visit is fantastic for @OrlandoCitySC & The City Beautiful. 🌴🐊☀️ https://t.co/ILQwbeKCIj
— Orlando City UK (@Orlando_CityUK) April 19, 2022
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