When United begin their 2018 campaign in Orlando on Saturday, March 3, they will be vying for their ninth season-opening win since 1996. With a schedule front loaded with away fixtures, kicking off the season with a victory at Orlando City Stadium would be a huge start to the Black-and-Red's season as they look to generate momentum for their extended road trip and gain crucial confidence away from home.
Historically, United have gone 8-11-3 in MLS season openers, and have earned a 4-8-1 record when starting the season outside of the District. With the challenge of earning results away from home looming for the first half of the season, Ben Olsen's squad will be focused on finding ways to rally on the road to pick up consistent points and remain in playoff contention before they open Audi Field on July 14 and enjoy an extended homestand.
United last kicked off their season on the road in 2016, when they fell 4-1 to the LA Galaxy in front of 25,667 fans at StubHub Center. The Black-and-Red have not won a season opener away since 2005, when they defeated Chivas USA 2-0 thanks to goals from Joshua Gros and Christian Gomez. United will also be fighting for their first-ever win at Orlando City Stadium this weekend—after the venue's opening in 2017, the Black-and-Red fell in their lone visit last year.
Like any away fixture, picking up three points at Orlando City Stadium will be no simple feat. With a passionate fan base eager to watch their club compete in MLS competition in Orlando for the first time since Oct. 15, 2017, the Lions faithful will likely be out in full force to support their club in their home opener. During United's last trip to Orlando in May of 2017, the Black-and-Red struggled to break through the Lions' back line following a lengthy rain delay. Cyle Larin and Giles Barnes scored to give Orlando the win, but with significant offseason roster moves, the Black-and-Red will return to the Sunshine State hungry to steal a victory away from the home crowd.
Last season, United started their campaign with a scoreless draw at home against Sporting Kansas City. Neither side found a breakthrough, but it was a hard-fought contest, with United's defense stifling Kansas City's attack, and the Black-and-Red nearly winning it with major chances from Nick DeLeon and Patrick Mullins in the second half.
After strong showings in preseason and three straight wins in friendlies against the Philadelphia Union, Jacksonville Armada FC, and Las Vegas Lights FC, the season opener will be a valuable opportunity for United to gauge their preseason progress in meaningful competition. Saturday will pit together two sides that look significantly different from last season, setting the stage for what will surely be an exciting matchup to open the 2018 regular season.
