Rodrigo Ariel Schlegel (born April 3, 1997) is an Argentine professional [[footballer]] who plays as a [[centre-back]] for [[Major League Soccer]] club [[Orlando City SC]]. He is known for his physicality, defensive prowess, and a notable emergency goalkeeping performance in the 2020 MLS Cup Playoffs.
Club career
Racing Club
Schlegel began his youth career at [[Racing Club de Avellaneda]], one of Argentina's most storied clubs. He progressed through their academy system and made his professional debut for the senior team in 2017. He spent several seasons with Racing, gaining experience in the [[Argentine Primera División]] and various cup competitions, before seeking opportunities abroad.Orlando City SC
On December 23, 2019, Schlegel signed with [[Major League Soccer]] club [[Orlando City SC]] ahead of the 2020 season. He quickly established himself as a versatile and reliable defender for the Lions.Emergency Goalkeeper Performance
Schlegel gained significant international attention during the 2020 MLS Cup Playoffs. In the Eastern Conference Round One match against [[New York City FC]] on November 21, 2020, the game went to a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. During the shootout, Orlando City's starting goalkeeper [[Pedro Gallese]] was controversially sent off. With no substitutions remaining, Schlegel volunteered to step into the goal. He famously saved a penalty kick from New York City FC's Gudmundur Thorarinsson, helping Orlando City advance to the next round in a dramatic fashion. This moment became a highlight of the season and a defining moment in his early career in MLS.
Since then, Schlegel has continued to be a key component of Orlando City's defense, contributing to their success in MLS and the [[U.S. Open Cup]]. He was part of the Orlando City squad that won the [[2022 U.S. Open Cup]], securing a major trophy for the club.