ORLANDO, July 8 (Reuters) – Antoine Griezmann made his Orlando City debut in a 6-0 friendly demolition of Tampa Bay Rowdies on Tuesday night. The French forward played 45 minutes.
The 35-year-old did not score. He did not need to. His presence transformed the Lions’ attack. Facundo Torres notched a brace. Duncan McGuire, Martin Ojeda, Ramiro Enrique and Dagur Dan Þórhallsson also found the net.
Orlando City vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies: Final Score 6-0 as Lions Run Wild in Friendly on Griezmann’s Debut
The match, played at Exploria Stadium, was a showcase of Orlando’s depth. Griezmann, wearing the captain’s armband for the first half, linked play between midfield and attack with characteristic vision. His best chance came in the 32nd minute, a curling shot saved by Rowdies goalkeeper CJ dos Santos.
“Tonight was about rhythm and connection,” Griezmann said post-match. “I felt the team’s energy from the first whistle.”
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Griezmann’s signing, announced June 30, ended months of speculation. The 2018 World Cup winner joined on a Designated Player contract through 2028. His salary is not disclosed, but industry sources estimate it exceeds $10 million annually.
At his unveiling press conference, Griezmann was blunt. “I didn’t come here for vacation. I came to win. A trophy. That is the only target.”
Orlando City last won silverware in 2022 – the U.S. Open Cup. They have never won the MLS Cup or Supporters’ Shield.
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Griezmann’s move reunites him with former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi, who plays for Inter Miami. The two clubs are scheduled to meet July 25 at DRV PNK Stadium.
“I spoke with Leo before signing,” Griezmann said. “He told me MLS is competitive. He was right. But I didn’t need convincing. This league is growing fast.”
The reunion adds narrative weight. Messi’s arrival in 2023 transformed MLS. Griezmann’s arrival signals Orlando’s ambition to challenge for supremacy in the Eastern Conference.
| Statistic | Griezmann’s Debut (45 min) | Orlando City Season Avg (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Passes completed | 38 | 412 |
| Key passes | 3 | 8 |
| Shots on target | 1 | 4 |
| Chances created | 4 | 11 |
The 6-0 scoreline, while against a USL Championship side, was emphatic. Tampa Bay had no answer for Orlando’s tempo. Griezmann dropped deep, collected possession, and distributed quickly. His movement opened space for wingers.
Orlando City manager Oscar Pareja praised his new signing. “Antoine is a leader. He makes everyone around him better. The scoreboard showed that.”
Pareja rotated his squad heavily. Griezmann was substituted at halftime alongside several starters. The second half featured mostly reserves, who maintained the intensity.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Did Antoine Griezmann score in his Orlando City debut?
- A: No, Griezmann did not score in his debut, but his presence transformed Orlando City’s attack in a 6-0 friendly win over Tampa Bay Rowdies.
- Q: What is Antoine Griezmann’s contract with Orlando City?
- A: Griezmann signed a Designated Player contract through 2028, with an estimated annual salary exceeding $10 million, though the exact figure is not disclosed.
- Q: What is Griezmann’s goal with Orlando City?
- A: Griezmann stated his sole target is to win a trophy, as Orlando City has never won the MLS Cup or Supporters’ Shield, last winning silverware in 2022 (U.S. Open Cup).
- Q: How did Griezmann perform in his first match?
- A: Playing 45 minutes as captain, Griezmann linked play between midfield and attack with vision, creating chances including a curling shot saved by the goalkeeper.
Extended Reading
Reuters reported July 8 that Griezmann’s move to MLS was driven by “a desire to compete in a growing league and reunite with former teammates.” The Frenchman’s previous club, Atletico Madrid, received an undisclosed transfer fee. Orlando City’s investment reflects a broader trend: MLS clubs are increasingly signing European stars in their prime. Griezmann, at 35, remains a top-tier talent. His debut suggests he plans to prove it.