Just over seven years after it hosted its first Major League Soccer game, Orlando City Soccer Club has won the league’s highest prize.
On Wednesday night, the soccer club claimed the 107th edition of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup at Exploria Stadium with a 3-0 shutout win over opponent Sacramento Republic FC.
The Lions beat out 103 teams to win $300,000 in prize money and a trip to the club’s first-ever Concacaf Champions League appearance.
The group, which capped off six consecutive matches at Exploria Stadium, made history in front of a sold out crowd of 25,527.
“To have this opportunity to lift this trophy means a lot against a really tough rival,” said head coach Oscar Pareja. “We are proud. Congratulations to all involved in this trophy. We are very grateful for tonight. Just have to continue and just give a lot of joy to the community.”
On Thursday afternoon, dozens of fans and city staff gathered outside of Orlando City Hall to celebrate the team.
The team will next face off again this Saturday against the Philadelphia Union at 7:30 p.m. at Subaru Park.