In an MLS Next Pro clash on July 13, 2026, Orlando City B continued their impressive road form by defeating Cincinnati II 2-1 at the Mercy Health Training Center. The win lifted Orlando's young side into the playoff places, while Cincinnati's development team was left to rue missed chances in the second half.

First Half: Visitors Take Control

Orlando City B started brightly, enjoying more possession and pressing Cincinnati II effectively. The breakthrough came in the 18th minute when Felipe Ribeiro collected a pass on the edge of the box, turned his marker, and fired low into the corner. Cincinnati struggled to create clear opportunities, often losing duels in midfield. The home side's best chance fell to Daniel Alvarado, but his shot was blocked by a timely challenge.

Orlando doubled their lead just before the half-hour mark. A counter-attack saw Jorge Sánchez sprint down the right and cut back for Mason Devlin, who swept home from twelve yards. Cincinnati II's head coach made an early substitution to bolster the attack, but Orlando went into the locker room with a well-deserved 2-0 advantage.

Second Half: Cincinnati Fights Back

After the break, Cincinnati II came out with much more intensity. They pulled one back in the 54th minute when Noah Kimbrough rose highest at a corner to head home, giving the home fans hope. The goal shifted momentum, and Cincinnati dominated the next twenty minutes, pushing for an equalizer. However, Orlando's defense, led by center-back Andre Torres, held firm. Goalkeeper Liam O'Hara made a crucial save from a close-range header in the 78th minute. Cincinnati could not find a second, and Orlando City B earned a gritty 2-1 victory.

Notable Performers

• Felipe Ribeiro (Orlando B): Opened the scoring with a clinical finish and was a constant threat on the counter.
• Noah Kimbrough (Cincinnati II): Scored the consolation goal and showed leadership in the second-half fightback.
• Liam O'Hara (Orlando B): Made several vital saves, especially late on, to preserve the win.

Standings Context

The victory moves Orlando City B into 5th place in the MLS Next Pro Eastern Conference, just two points off the top four with games in hand. For Cincinnati II, the defeat drops them to 8th, and they will need to address their defensive frailty if they are to push for a postseason spot.