Photo: Allison Petro

Wednesday’s quarterfinal match is business as usual for the Lions as they visit Toyota Park home of Major League Soccer (MLS) Chicago Fire in the U.S. Open Cup.

Orlandocitysoccer.com caught up with several City players to discuss their run for Open Cup glory, and how they plan to grab a victory once the whistle blows in Toyota Park.

“We’re not supposed to be here, we’re not even supposed to be in the quarterfinals,” said Defender Rob Valentino. “We never felt any type of pressure. If anything, Colorado (Rapids) and Sporting (Kansas City) had all the pressure because they knew falling to a lower division side would be devastating.”

There is no doubt that the 2013 season is Orlando’s best yet, and Dom Dwyer tallying 18 goals in all competitions has been a key factor in the Lions’ success. However, Orlando City displayed their depth by upsetting Sporting Kansas City 1-0 in Dwyer’s absence, thanks to an early Long Tan goal.

“From day one we always had chances, losing in the final minutes against these Major League Soccer (MLS) sides in Open Cup matches,” said Forward Dennis Chin. “We knew it was only a matter of time before the way we play would show results, and it has in these last two games.”

It all started with a 2-1 victory against USL Premier Development League side Ocala Stampede to get the ball rolling for Orlando. Shortly afterward, Forward Dom Dwyer’s brace inspired a 3-2 victory at the Citrus Bowl against MLS’ Colorado Rapids. However, it seemed for a minute that the Lions’ momentum hit a road block when MLS affiliate Sporting KC halted their four loanees from playing against them in the Round of 16. Despite losing two of their starters, a team effort saw the Lions pull off a monumental victory over the defending Open Cup Champions.

“It’s been a great run for us (Orlando City) and we’re going to go into Chicago, so we’re excited about that too,” Midfielder Christian Duke said ahead of Wednesday’s game. “Playing against MLS teams is always good, especially when there’s a lot on the line.”

With a busy week ahead, the Lions meet an unbeaten Richmond Kickers side on Saturday at home. Nevertheless, it is the game on Wednesday that will have Orlando City waving not only the flag of the USL PRO, but also the belief and effort they have for a future MLS franchise in the Southeast.

“This isn’t a surprise, this isn’t crazy that we made it this far,” said Midfielder Jamie Watson. “Nothing has been easy this year, we’re getting used to the point where we now know nothing is easy and little by little we’re getting respect across the country.”