Marco Pašalić
Orlando CityRW
Half-Space Orchestrator
Sep 14, 2000 (25)
Left
5'10"
163 lb
Eight crosses Tuesday
Pasalic had two shots (one on goal), eight crosses (one accurate) and one corner in Tuesday's 1-0 win versus Panama.
Analysis: Pasalic was heavily involved in Croatia's attack Tuesday, providing a team-high eight crosses in the victory. He only created one chance despite that volume, an early Luka Modric header that didn't threaten the goal. He had a wonderful opporuntity to score himself in the 57th minute as he was one-on-one with the goalkeeper, but his chip shot attempt was easily saved by Orlando Mosquera and then he hit the ball over the woodwork on the rebound attempt. After a busy appearance, he was subbed off in the 72nd minute for Luka Sucic. Given his creative output it would not be surprising if he started again in the final group stage match versus Ghana on Saturday, a side which has not allowed a goal through two matches.
On bench Wednesday
Pasalic (thigh) is on the bench for Wednesday's contest against Philadelphia Union.
Analysis: Pasalic could return to action midweek after being back in full training prior to this match. Still, it remains to be seen how many minutes he'll play in what would be his first appearance since April 12. The attacker, who has scored twice across seven MLS games in 2026, may be used either on the right wing or in a central spot, competing with Griffin Dorsey and Justin Ellis, respectively.
Fully training
Pasalic (thigh) is back in full training and could be an option again soon, according to Mike Gramajo of WESH 2 News.
Analysis: Pasalic has been nearing a return the past few weeks, but is further along this week than he has been thus far, with the forward earning a spot in full training. This is good news, as the forward should be fit ahead of the World Cup break. The question remains how much time he will get once back on the team sheet after a month-long absence.
Moves to questionable
Pasalic (thigh) is questionable for Saturday's match against Montreal, per the MLS Player Status Report.
Analysis: Pasalic has improved from out to questionable this matchday, which is an encouraging step after multiple matchdays sidelined with the thigh issue. He's a creative midfielder who contributes in fantasy when featuring regularly, and his potential return would be a boost for Orlando's midfield options. Once he gets a few matches under his belt, a starting role will be expected.
Receiving treatment in Europe
Pasalic (thigh) is currently in Europe receiving treatment for his injury and is expected to return in a couple of weeks, according to Alonso El Inca of Area Sports Network.
Analysis: Pasalic has been sidelined after missing Orlando City's clash against Houston Dynamo, snapping a run of seven consecutive MLS starts to begin the season. His trip to Europe for treatment underlines the club's commitment to getting him fully right before rushing him back, and a two-week timeline puts his return in early May. Zakaria Taifi has been covering at right wing-back in his absence with Tyrese Spicer seeing more time in attack, and the pair will need to continue holding things down until Pasalic is back up to full speed.
Doesn't train Tuesday
Pasalic (leg) remained absent from Tuesday's training session due to his injury, Orlando City's digital content manager Austin David reports.
Analysis: Pasalic could remain out with the issue that forced him to miss last weekend's meeting with Houston Dynamo, which marked his first absence of the year following a string of seven MLS starts. Therefore, his injury could continue to impact the team's offensive power going forward. During the last game without him, Orlando deployed Zakaria Taifi as a right wing-back, while Tyrese Spicer featured in attack.
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