All season long Orlando City have stressed the need to improve their play on defense. Now that the team is winless in their last six matches it’s become even more apparent.

“Our defensive system is not working,” said Kaka. “When I say defensive system it starts from the forwards, so everybody needs to work together to mark better. And when you start with this, the confidence goes down and a lot of things emotionally so this is something we have to rebuild now.”

Despite the recent skid, the Lions, who currently sit 7th in the Eastern Conference, are only 5 points out of first place, and a date with league leader Montreal is on tap for Saturday. Making the next 3 matches that will take place over only 9 days essentially do-or-die for the club.

“This moment will determine the rest of the season,” said Kaka. “If we can come out of this situation stronger, probably we will make the playoffs, if not, then we don’t deserve to be there and make the playoffs.”

The team captain says it’s not panic time, but he knows they’re capable of so much more than what they’re showing. 

“This team is very good, our group this year is better than last season. This is why it hurts more, because we know that we could be better on the table than what we are trying to work now.”

Injury Notes:

Midfielder Darwin Ceren will miss 5-6 weeks with a high ankle sprain.

Midfielder/Defender Brek Shea trained with the team Wednesday and should be full go for Saturday’s match.