Lion Links: 8/14/15

TKIFLL (Thank Kaká it’s Friday’s Lion Links)!

Yeah, that probably won’t catch on, so let’s just get to it.

Welcome to the Friday edition of Lion Links! Plenty of fun today, my fellow Mane Land Citizens.

Kaká Called up for International Duty

Orlando City’s captain has been called up to the Brazilian senior national team for a pair of friendlies in September. Kaká will miss Orlando City’s game against New England Revolution when Brazil takes on rival Costa Rica. He will also play in the match against the USMNT. I’m all for international play, but the timing could have been better for Orlando City.

Aurélien Sounds Off on the Seattle Sounders

Watch: Aurélien discusses the atmosphere and opportunity of taking on the Sounders on the road. http://t.co/tNCRNnGppM

— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) August 13, 2015

Speaking of the Sounders

Our very own Scott Crumbly updates us on the potential lineup for the Seattle Sounders this weekend and what it means for the match. Spoilers: they might have some important of players back (Clint Dempsey, Obafemi Martins), that could spell trouble for our defense. Plus we have a scouting report from Michael Citro with help from our friends at Sounder at Heart on the upcoming match.

Kaká Interview (Audio)

Kaká talks about MLS, Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho, the EPL, and Orlando City’s chances of getting into the playoffs. He addresses being a part of this new phase of MLS, how it is growing, and what he thinks it will one day become. I was struck as I listened to him, at how wonderful it is to have him representing our team, and Major League Soccer. You’ll hear what I mean when you listen, and listen you should.

Also be sure to watch this MLS Insider feature on the Brazilian superstar. It’s a great 10-minute watch.

MLS Experience Matters

Do you like graphs? Do you like information? Do you like colors? Well, here’s an infographic on how experience in MLS reflects the current standings. All of that goodness in one convenient Lion Link. You’re welcome.

Double Shot of Heath

Coach Adrian “Inchy” Heath was interviewed on ESPN FC yesterday. Heath touched on Kaká’s call up to the Brazilian Senior National Team (see above), and the potential of Cyle Larin.

Ready for Some Nike Uniform Goodness?

Plenty of cool designs in these Nike uniform concepts for the various MLS teams. Scroll down for the make believe Orlando City Nike kit. Don’t count on seeing any of these on the pitch anytime soon, since Adidas has a contract through the 2018 season.

Beer is Good

FC Dallas has introduced a Belgium-themed beer garden. I can only assume that this Pride Pub classic was making them jealous. Ticket prices raised accordingly, or were they? You know if it was beer related, I was going to link it.

Until next week, Go City! Beat Seattle!