Orlando City open their 2026 Leagues Cup campaign on Wednesday night with a historic first meeting against Liga MX powerhouse CF Monterrey. With no draws allowed in the competition and extra points available via a penalty shootout if the match is level after 90 minutes, both teams have plenty to play for from the opening whistle.
Griezmann is Orlando City's newest addition to their attack, while winger Tyrese Spicer comes into the match in excellent form after scoring in back-to-back games against Nashville SC and the New York Red Bulls. However, the Lions are without key playmaker Martín Ojeda, who remains sidelined with a thigh injury.
Monterrey also arrive with plenty of attacking quality. Former MLS stars Diego Rossi and Hugo Cuypers lead the line after joining the club this summer, while new head coach Matías Almeyda takes charge of his first Leagues Cup campaign.
If the match is level after 90 minutes, it will go straight to a penalty shootout, with the winner earning an additional point in the Leagues Cup standings. Orlando will be confident should it come to that, having won 11 of their 14 penalty shootouts in club history.
Is Antoine Griezmann Playing Today?
Yes, Antoine Griezmann should be in Orlando City's starting lineup.
The French World Cup winner starts in attack alongside Justin Ellis as Orlando look to begin their Leagues Cup campaign with a statement victory. Griezmann has settled in quickly since joining the Lions, contributing one goal and one assist in his first three MLS appearances.
Orlando City Starting Lineup vs. Monterrey
Goalkeeper: Crépeau
Defenders: Dorsey, Brekalo, Jansson, Rheim
Midfielders: Atuesta, Otavio
Attackers: Angulo, Tiago, Griezmann, Ellis
