Antoine Griezmann Scores on MLS Debut as Orlando City Cruises Past San Jose Earthquakes
Antoine Griezmann made an immediate impact in Major League Soccer, scoring on his debut as Orlando City defeated the San Jose Earthquakes 4-0 on Wednesday night. The emphatic victory marked Orlando's return to league action following the World Cup break, with several players delivering standout performances in a dominant team display.
Griezmann Makes Dream MLS Debut
French forward Antoine Griezmann celebrated his first Major League Soccer appearance by finding the back of the net as Orlando City secured a convincing victory.
The veteran striker joined Orlando City from Atlético Madrid in March, with an agreement that allowed him to complete the La Liga season before joining his new club.
Griezmann arrived in MLS as Atlético Madrid's all-time leading scorer, having recorded 211 goals and 97 assists in 488 appearances for the Spanish club.
Orlando City Controls the Match Early
Orlando City established its advantage within the opening minutes of the contest.
Defender David Brekalo opened the scoring in the seventh minute, heading home a well-delivered free kick from Eduard Atuesta after finding space inside the penalty area.
The early breakthrough allowed Orlando to dictate possession and maintain pressure throughout the match.
Iván Angulo Ends Long Goal Drought
Orlando doubled its lead in the 29th minute when Iván Angulo finished a low strike after receiving a pass from Atuesta.
The goal marked Angulo's first of the 2026 MLS season and his first since October 2024, ending a lengthy scoring drought.
The assist also highlighted Atuesta's creative influence in midfield.
Ojeda and Griezmann Complete Dominant Victory
Braian Ojeda added Orlando's third goal before Antoine Griezmann capped an impressive debut by scoring his first goal for the club.
The four-goal performance helped Orlando secure one of its most convincing victories of the season while providing an encouraging start to Griezmann's MLS career.
Goalkeepers Make Their Debuts
Orlando goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau delivered a strong defensive performance, recording seven saves to preserve the clean sheet.
For San Jose, Angus Gunn also made his MLS debut after signing with the Earthquakes earlier this month.
The Scotland international finished with three saves, despite conceding four goals.
Orlando Returns Strong After World Cup Break
The match was the first MLS fixture for both clubs following the league's World Cup pause.
Orlando improved its season record to 5-9-2, while San Jose fell to 10-4-2 after suffering one of its heaviest defeats of the campaign.
The victory gives Orlando renewed momentum as the second half of the MLS season begins.
FAQ
Did Antoine Griezmann score in his MLS debut?
Yes. Antoine Griezmann scored his first MLS goal during his debut as Orlando City defeated the San Jose Earthquakes 4-0.
Which team did Griezmann join before moving to MLS?
Griezmann joined Orlando City from Atlético Madrid, where he finished as the club's all-time leading scorer.
Who scored for Orlando City?
Orlando's goals came from David Brekalo, Iván Angulo, Braian Ojeda, and Antoine Griezmann.
Who made their MLS debut for San Jose?
Goalkeeper Angus Gunn made his first MLS appearance for the San Jose Earthquakes after joining the club in July 2026.
What was the final score?
Orlando City defeated the San Jose Earthquakes 4-0 in both teams' first MLS match following the World Cup break.
