Lion Links

Lion Links: 5/5/16

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8 years ago

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Feliz Cinco de Mayo! Also, happy birthday to Orlando City defender Kevin Alston! If you weren’t a hearty enough soul to stay up through the weather delay to see Orlando City B’s match last night, Sean Rollins has you covered with his match recap. He might dry out by the fourth of July.

Initially, while coming up with today’s wine and food pairing, I was thinking of a more literal approach concerning the New York Red Bulls. Choosing a red, obviously and matching it with some cut of beef would be absolutely perfect. Then, I thought, “Why not combine both? Why not your favorite? Why not boeuf bourguignon?” So, I set out to write this edition of Lion Links on Cinco de Mayo by going with a French dish. Probably not the best idea. So, instead I’m going to suggest Bistec and Shiraz. The Shiraz is powerful enough to not be overcome by the seasoning in the Bistec and stands on its own while not drowning out the beef.

Here's my preview of Friday's match:

Now, on to the news!

Injury Concerns Ongoing for Orlando City

At this point it might be easier to identify what player hasn’t been injured this early in the season. Sadly, this most recent injury is pretty serious and affects Pedro Ribeiro. He is slated to undergo back surgery that will likely sideline the forward/midfielder for several months and potentially the rest of the season. In addition to Ribeiro, Kevin Molino picked up a knock in last week’s match versus New England and his status for tomorrow’s match is uncertain at this time. Luke Boden rejoined the squad at training, but will not be up for selection against the Red Bulls. There is some good news, however, as Orlando City captain Kaká is set to play after a two-match hiatus from a nagging groin injury.

Cristian Higuita Named to Colombia’s 40-Man Copa America Centenario Roster

It’s only a preliminary roster, but Orlando City could be represented not only by Kaká being called up by Brazil, but Cristian Higuita being named to Los Cafeteros’ 40-man roster. It’s worth noting that Higuita is the only MLS player named to the roster and hopefully, this could be the sign of things to come with Higuita following in Colombian — and MLS great — Carlos Valderrama’s footsteps representing his country.

Ashlyn Harris Up for NWSL Save of the Week

First, let's get a look at this beaut.

Yeah, sentient brick wall Ashlyn Harris continues to keep the Orlando Pride competitive in matches and we all owe the Satellite Beach native a drink (who are we kidding, Harris will probably never have to buy herself a drink in the City Beautiful ever again). Having already won Save of the Week for Week 2 and currently leading the polls for Week 3, Harris has been solid for the Pride and I, for one, hope she continues to gain recognition as we get closer to the Rio Olympics. You can vote for Harris here.

UEFA Champions League Final Set

It’s going to be a Madrid Derby in Milan as Real Madrid moved past Manchester City yesterday and Atlético Madrid lost in Germany, but won the tie on away goals (weirdest rule ever) to set up this year’s UEFA Championship Final. Gareth Bale’s wondergoal in the 20th minute was the only goal in both ends of the match-up, as previously the two squads dueled to a nil-nil draw. Watch here:

Free Kicks

Today’s Birthdays include Actor John Rhys-Davies (72), famous for his portrayals of Gimli in the Lord of the Rings series and Sallah in Indiana Jones, Superman himself Henry Cavil (33), and Adele (28) … Orlando Pride Captain Alex Morgan attended the Met Gala in New York City … Former Bayern Munich striker Luca Toni will retire from professional football after his match against Juventus Sunday … The young Afghani boy who became an internet sensation after being spotted wearing a makeshift Lionel Messi jersey made from a plastic bag has been forced to flee to Pakistan along with his family after threats from the Taliban.

That's it for today.

Play us out, Leicester City

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