Orlando City B

USL Preview: A Look at Orlando City B’s Upcoming Inaugural Season

Published

9 years ago

March 19, 2016

Orlando City B kicks off its United Soccer League (USL) season next weekend, and it will take place in a league that is very familiar, and yet quite different at the same time. It's like going to visit your old neighborhood only to find that the house you grew up in now has a new apartment over the garage and your tree house has been knocked down.

Well guess what? We're moving back on the block, and we're looking to take back our throne as king of the cul-de-sac. Before we go knocking door-to-door, however, let's look at some old photo albums and review what we know about the league. So, now that I've beaten that analogy to death, let's launch into a one-man USL Q&A.

So, tell me about this USL.

Well, let me just say this isn’t your father’s USL. No, seriously. That one, which included such teams as the Jacksonville Tea Men and the Houston Dynamo, folded in 1985. That league was a revival of the American Soccer League, which can trace its roots all the way back to 1922 (and which included some amazing team names, such as Brookhattan and the Uhrik Truckers).

No, this USL started play in 2011, after a merger of the previous USL First and Second divisions, which were in turn founded in 2005 and 1995, respectively. After neither was sanctioned in 2010, they joined forces to become the USL Pro league, and were sanctioned a Division III league by the USSF.

In 2013, the league reached an agreement with MLS to integrate with the MLS Reserve League. After the Reserve League ended play in 2014, MLS teams had to either affiliate with a USL team or create one of their own. More on that later.

On Feb 10, 2015, the league dropped "Pro" from its moniker and was rebranded the USL.

How does any of this play into Orlando City’s history?

Well, the most successful team in USL history is…wait for it…your Orlando City Soccer Club! The Lions are the owners of two USL championships, including the inaugural season of 2011 and the 2013 season. They also set a USL attendance record when 20,886 attended the 2013 final in the Citrus Bowl. OCSC won that match, 7-4, in what was clearly a defensive battle for the ages.

Then Orlando City moved on to MLS to give other teams a chance, right?

Yes, but the spirit carried on with Orlando City's affiliate, Louisville FC.

They won the title last year?

No.

Well, then.

Last year's champions were the Rochester Rhinos. They dominated the regular season with 61 points on the backs of a defense that gave up a measly 0.54 goals per game (next best was at 1.08). Their leading scorers were Christian Volesky and Steevan Dos Santos, with eight goals each.

It should be noted that since the end of last season, the league terminated the team's ownership agreement. They have since resolved the issue by finding a new ownership team.

What does that have to do with Louisville?

Nothing. Except that Louisville was the second best team, with 48 points, and had the league MVP in Matt Fondy, who scored a league record 22 goals (breaking Kevin Molino's record). They also had the Defensive Player of the Year in former Lion Bryan Burke, though both he and Fondy have moved on to the Jacksonville Armada of the NASL. The team also led the league with 1.96 goals scored per game, and ultimately lost to the Rhinos in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Is any of this relevant to OCB?

No.

Well, you're not very helpful, are you?

You realize we’re the same person, right? Actually, there is some relevance, as OCB will be in the Eastern Conference with both teams, with a natural rivalry possibly forming against Louisville. Also in the east are Bethlehem Steel FC, Charleston Battery (remember the epic U.S. Open Cup match from last year?), Charlotte Independence, FC Cincinnati, FC Montreal, Harrisburg City Islanders, New York Red Bulls II, Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Richmond Kickers, Toronto FC II, and Wilmington Hammerheads FC.

Wait, I don't recognize some of those names. What's new this year?

More like, "what isn't?" Including OCB, there are six new teams for the 2016 season. B is joined by FC Cincinnati, Bethlehem Steel FC, Rio Grande Valley FC Toros, Swope Park Rangers (who win the early name and logo contest), and San Antonio FC.

Gone from last year are the Austin Aztex, who are on a one-year hiatus due to the unavailability of their stadium. They will presumably return in 2017, along with Reno 1868 FC.

Affiliations and MLS operated franchises can be found here.

Aren't you going to say anything about the Western Conference?

No. Because of the league's split schedule, Orlando City B would only play a team from the opposite conference if it reaches the USL championship game. If that happens, we can talk more about it then.

How does player movement work?

Players can be called up from the USL squad for short-term contracts (up to four days) for CONCACAF Champions League games, U.S. Open Cup games, or exhibition matches. They can also be called up for MLS matches in “cases of extreme hardship” — defined as having fewer than 15 players or fewer than two goalies available. Each player can be signed for up to four of these contracts per season.

Players can move in the other direction (i.e. MLS to USL), provided the transfer is free and the player is not paid more than their MLS budget charge without the excess being charged to the MLS budget. This prevents the MLS team from using the USL team for budget relief. There is one exception where a team can use the USL for roster or budget relief, provided the player is younger than 25 years old, is paid less than the MLS Senior Minimum Salary, and stays with the USL team for the full season (excluding goalkeeper hardship call-ups).

Our SBN sister site RSL Soapbox does a good job of summarizing it all here. Though tread gently over there. They may still be sore about that opening day thing.

What are some story lines to look forward to this season?

There are a few. Here's a quick breakdown

Homegrown Players: Orlando City has a number of Homegrown Players who should be developing in the USL. These include GK Mason Stajduhar, Harrison Heath, and Tyler Turner. Tommy Redding was expected to be on that list, but it appears now he’s done plenty to stick with the senior side. One of the primary objectives of OCB will be to help these players mature on the pitch. I should mention that none are currently listed on the OCB roster, but the development of these players is key to the club’s future, and isn’t that what OCB is all about? Expect to see a few of them in the USL, though noting the limited player movement allowed between leagues, the club may decide to keep one or two in Orlando for depth.

Veteran leadership: Lewis Neal will be a key element to this team, as he will act as a de facto on-field coach. If you’ve watched any other sport where young players are learning to be professionals, you know it’s key. As a Florida Panthers fan, I can tell you that without Jaromir Jagr or Willie Mitchell, this year’s team would not be in first place right now (it still feels weird to say that).

2016 SuperDraft: Richie Laryea, Hadji Barry, and Antonio Matarazzo are all likely to play in Melbourne this year. In fact, Matarazzo signed a contract with OCB despite being drafted by the senior club. Laryea and Barry are currently with the senior Lions (which I would like to start referring to as The A-Team), but it wouldn’t be surprising to see them get more playing time with B.

Mendoza's title run: Colombian midfielder Johnny Mendoza has quite the USL resume, as well as some history with Orlando City. He was on the 2013 championship winning club and spent last year with Rochester. Hopefully, it's not one of those odd-year things, and he can bring some of that winning magic down to Melbourne.

Forward youth movement: The team has some good experience on defense and in the midfield, but the forward ranks are all about youth and potential. While the definition of USL is pretty much youth, this group is the least experienced on the team. Canadian Michael Cox is the oldest (23) and most experienced player in that position group, having spent the last two years playing in Portugal and Sweden. Pierre da Silva was a member of the U.S. U-17 2015 World Cup team. Dembakwi Yomba just missed out on last year’s U-20 World Cup team. So, the potential is there, but how quickly they mesh may define the early season success. Even if Barry joins the squad, it’s not like he’s a seasoned veteran, being just out of college.

Team chemistry: Just like last year's MLS team, this year's OCB squad is an expansion team and will have to quickly learn how to play together. Many other teams will be going through the same growing pains, but that also means there's an opportunity should Head Coach Anthony Pulis be able to pull the right strings. The team that gels the most quickly may find a bit of an advantage early in the season.

Fan support: The team's home field at Eastern Florida State College is a top notch pitch. But it remains to be seen just how well the team will be received by the community. I live approximately a mile from the stadium, and while I can tell you that coverage in the local paper has been decent, there has not been much of a media push. I assure you that if I ask the average Melbournian (Melbournite?) about the team, they would say that they've heard of the team, but they have no idea that they're starting play within a week. There is a pretty strong soccer community here, so hopefully that will be enough, but betting on "word of mouth" is always a bit dangerous.

What are some key games to look forward to?

Here's a link to The Mane Land's schedule preview, but here are a few key ones:

First game: March 26 vs Wilmington at home.
First road game and first Purple Battle Royale versus the old affiliate: Friday, April 1 @ Louisville.
First game against the defending champions: Sunday, May 22 at home.

Thanks, anything else?

Well, that's enough for now. Stay tuned to The Mane Land for more information and all your OCB coverage.

Orlando City B

Orlando City B Signs Bernardo Rhein, Justin Ellis to MLS NEXT Pro Deals

OCB adds two signees ahead of the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro season.

Published

1 week ago

February 13, 2025

Michael Citro

Image courtesy of Orlando City SC

Orlando City B announced this morning that the club has signed two Orlando City Academy players — midfielder Bernardo Rhein and forward Justin Ellis — to MLS NEXT Pro contracts. Rhein signed through 2025 with a club option for 2026, with Ellis’ deal running through 2026. Both players featured Saturday night in Orlando City’s preseason scrimmage against CF Montreal.

“Bernardo and Justin are two more great examples of young players that have shown belief and trust in the development pathway we have set up here at Orlando City,” Orlando City SC Vice President of Soccer Operations and Technical Director Ricardo Moreira said in a club press release. “By signing with OCB, Justin and Bernardo have shown trust in us, the pathway, and in Head Coach Manuel Goldberg. They both put in the work since their early academy days; took the opportunities that they were given to continue developing their skill sets; and have shown us that they’re ready to take the next step along that pathway, and we’re excited to see how they both continue to progress these next few years.”

The 17-year-old Rhein (known as Bernardo Goncalves in 2024), appeared in six matches with OCB a year ago, coming off the bench each time and playing a total of 33 minutes. The Windermere native and Brazilian national did not record a goal contribution, attempting one shot, which he put on target, and completing 81.8% of his 22 pass attempts. Rhein subbed on for the latter stages of Saturday’s preseason scrimmage against Montreal and looked good, getting himself into scoring position but firing just over the bar in the extra 30-minute sesson.

Ellis, also 17, appeared in 18 matches with OCB in 2024 (three starts), scoring two goals and putting eight of his 13 shots on target. He did not record an assist, but passed well from the forward position, logging three key passes and completing 76.7% of his total pass attempts. The Wellington native traveled with the MLS squad to Mexico for the team’s week-long camp in Cancun. On the international stage, Ellis was called up to the U-18 USMNT in September, scoring two goals in two appearances.

What It Means for OCB

This is positive news for both OCB and the Orlando City Academy. Ellis was a regular contributor last season at a young age, while Rhein got his feet wet with a few appearances at the MLS NEXT Pro level. At just 17, both have shown a lot of potential upside already. Ellis will turn 18 in May, while Rhein won’t reach his 18th birthday until Sept. 21. Both will get a chance to further their development with OCB.

While neither player will be expected to make an impact with the first team in 2025, Duncan McGuire’s injury absence may require Shak Mohammed to spend more time with the first team, meaning Ellis would be in line to get more minutes with the Young Lions in the early part of the season.

Orlando City B

Orlando City Signs Goalkeeper Carlos Mercado to a New Contract

Carlos Mercado signs a new contract to remain Orlando City’s third-choice goalkeeper.

Published

3 weeks ago

January 30, 2025

Sean Rollins

Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Orlando City announced this morning that the club has signed goalkeeper Carlos Mercado to a new contract. The deal is through the 2025 season with club options for 2026 and 2027.

“Carlos did a great job for us last year with Orlando City B and continued to provide a positive work ethic and atmosphere every day in training up with the first team and showed his skill and ability to compete every chance he got,” Orlando City Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Luiz Muzzi said in a club press release. “He’s part of a strong goalkeeping unit here at the club and we feel confident in the future of that entire position group moving forward.”

Mercado originally joined Orlando City prior to the 2024 season to back up Javier Otero. However, when Mason Stajduhar broke his tibia and fibula in a June 28 game against New York City FC, Otero became the primary backup to Pedro Gallese and Mercado was the starter for the Young Lions.

In his debut season in purple, Mercado started 20 games — including a playoff game in Chicago — playing 1,830 minutes. He conceded 30 goals for a goals-against average of 1.48 and saved 81 of 111 shots faced for a save percentage of 73%. He kept three clean sheets and compiled a record of 9-5-6 (W-L-D) while saving two of the four penalties he faced in regular play.

The 25-year-old signed a short-term deal following Stajduhar’s injury with his lone game on the team sheet being on the bench for a July 3 game against Toronto FC. He went on to sign a first-team contract on Sept. 20 through the 2024 season with options for 2025, 2026, and 2027. However, his 2025 option was declined following the season.

Mercado played for the FC Dallas academy in his youth, earning call-ups to the United States U-16 National Team and Mexico U-18 National Team. He played collegiately at the University of Incarnate Word in San Antonio, TX, before joining San Antonio FC of the USL Championship.

The goalkeeper made his professional debut in 2021, coming on for the final 29 minutes in a 3-0 win over Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. He stayed with San Antonio FC through the 2023 season before joining OCB.

What It Means for Orlando City

As previously mentioned, Mercado’s option for 2025 was declined following the 2024 MLS season since the club already had three other goalkeepers. However, signing another goalkeeper became necessary when Orlando City traded Stajduhar to Real Salt Lake on Jan. 15, leaving the club with two under contract.

Mercado will likely continue to be the club’s third goalkeeper and is the presumed starter for Orlando City B when the MLS NEXT Pro season starts in March. He’ll have to join the first team if Gallese goes away on international duty with Peru and Otero enters the starting lineup. Barring unavailability of Gallese and Otero, it’s unlikely he’ll see any MLS action.

Orlando City B

Orlando City B Announces Schedule for 2025 MLS NEXT Pro Season

Find out where, when, and who the Young Lions of OCB will play in 2025.

Published

4 weeks ago

January 27, 2025

Michael Citro

Image courtesy of Orlando City B / Mark Thor

The 2025 MLS NEXT Pro schedule was r eleased this afternoon, telling us where, when, and who Orlando City B will play in the team’s fourth year in the league. The league will again feature 29 teams in 2025, with three teams set to enter the league next year. There are 27 MLS affiliated clubs in the league and two independents — Carolina Core FC and Chattanooga FC.

The schedule remains at 28 games, with Orlando City B playing 14 at home, 13 away, and one at a neutral site at IMG Academy in Bradenton. OCB home games will take place at Osceola County Stadium in Kissimmee again this season.

OCB will start the 2024 season with a two-game home stand, opening the season on Sunday, March 9 against Columbus Crew 2 at 7 p.m. A week later, Atlanta United 2 will visit Osceola County Stadium. The Young Lions will then hit the road for the team’s first two away games starting Wednesday, March 26 at Crown Legacy FC and following with a match at Chattanooga FC on Saturday, April 5.

In addition to opening the season at home, OCB will close the regular season by hosting FC Cincinnati 2 at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 5. Last year, the Young Lions opened and closed the season on the road. All Decision Day games in the Eastern Conference will start at 1 p.m. and all Western Conference matches will kick off at 4 p.m. (ET).

OCB will compete in the 15-team Eastern Conference as part of the Southeast Division. The other teams in the division are Atlanta, Carolina Core, Chattanooga, Crown Legacy, Huntsville City, and rival Inter Miami II. The reserve version of the Tropic Thunder rivalry will play out over three meetings in 2025. The Young Lions will travel IMG Academy to face the Baby Herons on April 15, with the home match in Kissimmee coming May 17. The teams will meet again in Fort Lauderdale on Sept. 14.

MLS NEXT Pro teams will again only play opponents from their own conference, limiting travel. The Young Lions will play each team in the Southeast Division three times, including Atlanta United 2, and Chattanooga twice at home and once away, and Carolina Core, Crown Legacy, and Huntsville City once each at home and twice away. OCB will play the teams from the Northeast Division once, except Columbus and New England, which the Young Lions will face both at home and away. Orlando City B will face FC Cincinnati 2, New York City FC II, New York Red Bulls II, and Toronto FC II only at home in the regular season, while facing Chicago Fire II and Philadelphia Union II only on the road.

The busiest months for OCB this season will be June and August, when the Young Lions will play five matches. They’ll play four times in April and July, three times in March, May, and September, and once in October. The most common day the Young Lions will play is on Sunday (13 games). Additionally, they have five games on Saturday, four games each on Wednesday and Friday, and one game each on Monday and Tuesday. The most common kickoff time is 7 p.m.. The Young Lions will play 18 games with that start time, three times each at 3 p.m., 7:30 p.m., and 8 p.m., and once at 1 p.m. (Decision Day).

Once again, the postseason will include 15 games this year, concluding with the MLS NEXT Pro Cup. The higher playoff seeds will again select their opponents for the matchups in the first two rounds.

The majority of regular season games and all playoff games will again air on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. The remaining games will be streamed live on mlsnextpro.com.

As far as viewing conflicts go for Orlando City and Pride fans, there are a few overlaps in 2025. OCB plays at 7 p.m. on April 5 at Chattanooga with the MLS Lions playing at 7:30 p.m. at Philadelphia that night. On May 23, OCB plays at Atlanta United 2 at 7:30 p.m. and the Pride and Royals kick off in Utah at 9:30 p.m. just as that game is concluding. On June 25, OCB plays at home at 7 p.m. against Toronto FC II, with Orlando City at St. Louis City at 8:30 p.m. OCB’s game July 25 at Huntsville City will kick off 30 minutes after the senior side begins playing at Columbus. The Young Lions start at home on Aug. 3 against NYCFCII an hour after the Pride and Utah Royals kick off at Inter&Co Stadium. OCB and the Pride are both home on Aug. 9 as well, with the Young Lions and Chattanooga getting underway at 7 p.m. at Osceola County Stadium, just 30 minutes before the Pride and Racing Louisville battle at Inter&Co Stadium. On Aug. 23, OCB will play at 7 p.m. at home against Atlanta United 2, with the senior Lions and Nashville SC kicking off at 8:30 p.m.