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Lion Links

Lion Links: 7/7/16

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So, it seems the Church of Lion has once again been shifted from its normal time slot. Hey, that's cool. You'll probably need some time to work on this week's bonkers tip before Sunday morning anyway.

If you're new to my weekly tips, here's what you've missed so far:

  • Dim your phones so no one can see you're reading Lion Links.
  • Buy a cool stadium seat to beat the pain of those wooden pews – like this one.
  • Mouth the word "watermelon" while everyone else is singing to avoid getting the stink eye.

Cool you're caught up. Now, let's tackle heat. Dudes and dudettes, it is hot out there. And if you go to a traditional style church, you're probably wearing a tie or a fancy dress. Those are not conducive for the weather we are experiencing. So, let me introduce you to the cooling towel — revolutionary material that, with a bit of water and a quick snap or two, will keep you nice and comfortable. Slide that thing under your collar or cover it up with a nice shawl. Either way, you'll be smiling and profiling (woooo!) while everyone else is roasting away.

Now, on to the Links!

Welp, Heath Gone

Last night was a bit of a shocker as Orlando City fired the only head coach its ever had. After eight seasons in USL/MLS, Adrian Heath is not the gaffer of this team anymore. While the man himself said his job was probably dependent upon making the playoffs, it seemed there was plenty of time left in a season in which the Eastern Conference summit can be reached with a simple three-game winning streak. Plus, Orlando City has games in hand against several of the teams it is chasing. Well, coaches are hired to be fired, as they say, but it is sad to see someone go who gave so much to this community. Oh, and to make matters worse, assistant Mark Watson was also let go. OCB Head Coach Anthony Pulis and OCSC Assistant Coach Bobby Murphy will co-manage during the upcoming coaching search.

Kaka is more than a captain, he's a recruiter!

As if we didn’t know this already, but MLSsoccer.com had a feature yesterday stating how important Kaká is to bringing other talented players to Orlando. His Brazilian roots helped the team land Julio Baptista and they go on to credit his AC Milan ties with getting Antonio Nocerino (I wonder if they accept refunds?).

All and all, an interesting read that also highlights how coaches can use social media and YouTube to scout a player versus going in person. This has cut down on crazy travel and "wild goose chases" as he called them when it comes to scouting.

Lions Close to Signing Aja?

The rumor about center back Jose Aja is heating up, with a report out of Uruguay saying the 23-year-old defender will be joining Orlando City on loan from Nacional. We first discussed this rumor on Tuesday, but on Wednesday evening the online chatter reached new levels with the new report. The team could use some positive news, but coming to a team that just fired its coach is problematic for any player.

Orlando Pride sign Keeper Kaitlyn Savage

Well it seemed like keeper DiDi Haracic was the one, but yesterday we learned it is actually former Florida International University goalkeeper Kaitlyn Savage who will be joining the team. Savage, the reigning Goalkeeper of the Year with Adelaide United in the Australian W-League, is set to carry the load for the Pride while current number one Ashlyn Harris will be called up for Olympic duty. Join me in welcoming the former Panther back to the great state of Florida!

The Spanish Taxation of Leo Messi

No one can escape the tax man, including Lionel Messi. Reports are coming in that the "all-everything soccer sensation" and his father, Jorge, have each been sentenced to 21 months hard time in Spain. Apparently they bilked Spanish authorities out of 4.5 million dollars between 2007 and 2009.

Due to this being his first violation and Spanish law being good to those who are first timers, it's not likely he'll spend a day in the slammer. Nope, probation seems to be what he and his dad are heading for. Still, he's probably in line for some big time fines for using other countries to hide all his treasures. First the Copa and now this? It's not the best of times to be a Messi.

And, as a surprise to no one, Leo and Jorge are filing an appeal. Best of luck with that, gentlemen!

Euro 2016: Bale vs Ronaldo

In yesterday's Euro 2016 semifinal, we had ourselves a good one as two of the very best (who also happen to be Real Madrid teammates) were on the field, duking it out for supremacy. In the end, led by Cristiano Ronaldo breaking the ice at the 50th minute, Portugal overcame the plucky team from the British Isle, advancing to the finals. Now the Portuguese just have to wait to see who they play, Germany or France, on July 10.

Wales deserves credit for making it this far though. The team proved it was more than just Gareth Bale plus 10. Congrats on a brilliant run through a very tough field.

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Not to pile it on Argentina, but sources say there is a 50% chance the country will pull out of the Olympics. Man, any more bad news from there and you'd think they were the English soccer team!…Are you a Star Wars fan? Coming soon should be a new trailer for this year's Rogue One. It looks to be hitting ABC on July 15.

That's it for today's edition of the Big LL. Come on back to The Mane Land early and often today as we'll be getting you ready for tomorrow's game with the Houston Dynamo and so much more. Wait, you're at work? Pssht, who needs work?

Lion Links

Lion Links: 7/2/25

Big names leave Toronto FC, hot conditions in Club World Cup match, FIFPRO makes ACL recommendations, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Happy Wednesday, everyone. It already feels like it’s been a long week, as I just got home from being out of town traveling up and down the East Coast for the last few days. The soccer world hasn’t stopped in my absence though, and as usual we have a lot to cover today. Let’s wish a happy birthday to OCB defender Tahir Reid-Brown, and jump into today’s links!

Italians Leave Toronto FC

It’s the end of an era at Toronto FC, as the club has parted ways with both Federico Bernardeschi, and Lorenzo Insigne. The Reds used both of their two buyouts of guaranteed contracts this season in order to get the transactions done, so the club was pretty keen to get them out the door. It’s hard to blame the Reds, as Insigne was the second-highest paid player in the league while Bernardeschi was the fifth highest. They didn’t have much to show for it though, as Bernardeschi had 26 goals and 22 assists in 99 games across all competitions, while Insigne had 19 goals and 17 assists in 76 matches. TFC never made the playoffs while the duo was on the team, and the decision to turn the page is an understandable one.

Difficult Conditions in Juventus vs. Real Madrid

The Club World Cup Round of 16 concluded on Tuesday, with Real Madrid knocking off Juventus 1-0 in afternoon match. Kylian Mbappe made his tournament debut for Madrid as a substitute, but it was Gonzalo Garcia’s 54th-minute goal that made the difference in the game. Juve boss Igor Tudor highlighted the difficult conditions in Miami, saying in his postgame press conference that 10 different players asked to come off the field during the game. Tudor didn’t outright blame the loss on the high heat and humidity during the 3 p.m. kickoff at Hard Rock Stadium, but noted that they were among several factors that made the game a very difficult one for his side.

FIFPRO Makes Recommendations to Curb ACL Tears

Amid a rash of ACL injuries to women’s soccer players, FIFPRO has made some recommendations to cut down on the rate at which they occur. Rather than focusing on things that can’t be controlled, the federation has suggested modifying the calendar, number of games, and the playing surfaces. FIFPRO member Alex Culvin is calling for minimum standards in the women’s game relating to pitch conditions and access to physiotherapists. More research around risk factors is also necessary, as is implementing preventative exercises at the youth levels of the game.

Transfer Rumor Roundup

Summer transfer business is in full swing, so let’s catch up on some of the hot rumors currently flying around. First up, Arsenal is said to be in the final stages of signing Viktor Gyokeres to a five-year deal. Staying in the Premier League, Manchester United is reportedly interested in signing midfielder Fabian Ruiz from Paris Saint-Germain. Juventus reportedly is close to signing Jonathan David after his contract with Lille expired. Finally, Bayern Munich is reportedly preparing a formal offer for Liverpool for Colombian winger Luis Diaz.

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Apparently a non -#usmnt drone has crashed the training session. US Soccer staff aiming to identify it.

Jeff Carlisle (@jeffreycarlisle.bsky.social) 2025-07-01T17:25:12.954Z

That’s all I have for you this morning. Vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 7/1/25

Pride signings, OCB draws, both U.S. national teams in action Wednesday, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

Welcome to July, Mane Landers. If you’re like me, you balanced the excitement and dread of the USMNT advancing on penalty kicks the other night. It was one thing watching Guatemala take out Canada but a whole other level of heart palpitating stress while watching the U.S. avoid a similar fate. There’s no time to relax with plenty of soccer to watch as we head towards Independence Day. Before we get to the links, please join us in wishing Orlando Pride/USWNT defender Emily Sams and OCB defender Clovis Archange each a happy birthday.

Orlando Pride Signings

The Orlando Pride announced a pair of transactions Monday. Midfielder Viviana Villacorta and the club have agreed to exercise the midfielder’s mutual option for the 2026 season. Villacorta was the No. 9 overall pick in the 2021 NWSL Draft. The Pride also signed midfielder Ally Lemos to a new contract through the 2027 season with a mutual option for 2028. The Pride selected Lemos with the No. 9 overall pick of the 2024 NWSL Draft. Orlando continues to lock down current players ahead of time. Now, we wait to see if any new players will be added.

OCB Earns a Point on the Road

Orlando City B played Philadelphia Union II to a 1-1 draw in a Monday afternoon match. Unfortunately, the Young Lions lost the end-of-regulation shootout 4-2 and did not get the additional point. Gustavo Caraballo assisted Jackson Platts on the early goal for OCB. Philadelphia equalized early in the second half. Carlos Mercado was the difference maker in the match, recording a career-high 12 saves.

USMNT’s Gold Cup Run Continues vs. Guatemala

The USMNT will face Guatemala Wednesday night in a 2025 Gold Cup semifinal match. The U.S. advanced past Costa Rica on penalties thanks to a stellar performance from goalkeeper Matt Freese. Guatemala stunned Canada with a second-half equalizer and advanced on penalty kicks. Guatemala has been the overachieving underdog of the competition so far. This will be the USMNT’s 17th Gold Cup semifinal appearance.

USWNT Hosts Canada

The USWNT will host Canada in a third friendly of this international window Wednesday at Washington, D.C.’s Audi Field. The U.S. is coming off two 4-0 victories over the Republic of Ireland. Canada should prove a tougher opponent for Emma Hayes’ squad. There is a possibility that the match will feature two Orlando Pride players — Emily Sams for the U.S. and Zara Chavoshi for Canada. Kerry Abello has returned to her club team after picking up a knock.

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Sources: Bayer Leverkusen are finalizing a deal to sign USMNT attacker Malik Tillman from PSV.Deal in region of $40m.

Tom Bogert (@tombogert.bsky.social) 2025-06-30T20:36:24.359Z
  • Former Orlando Pride midfielder Erika Tymrak has retired from professional soccer.

That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for Orlando City’s match against Charlotte FC this weekend. Vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 6/30/25

Lions fall to FC Cincinnati, USWNT beats Ireland, USMNT defeats Costa Rica in penalties, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Hello, Mane Landers! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I’ve been busy at work but got to catch up with friends at a Chicago White Sox game. Let’s wish a happy birthday to Orlando City midfielder Joran Gerbet, who turns 25 today. Our Lions were the only team in action over the weekend while the Pride and OCB were off. We’ve got plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.

Lions Fall at Home to FC Cincinnati

Orlando City fell 2-1 to FC Cincinnati Saturday at Inter&Co Stadium, seeing its two-match winning streak end. The Lions trailed 2-0, with Evander scoring both goals for FC Cincinnati. Marco Pasalic pulled one back for Orlando, but it was not enough as FC Cincinnati claimed the three points and remain second in the Eastern Conference standings with 39 points. Orlando City is fifth with 33 points. The Lions will travel to face Charlotte FC Saturday at Bank of America Stadium.

Pride and Grace Chanda Exercise Mutual Option for 2026 Season

On Friday, the Orlando Pride announced the club and Grace Chanda reached an agreement to exercise their mutual option for the 2026 season. Chanda joined Orlando last summer but was placed on the Season-Ending Injury list after sustaining an injury while playing for Zambia at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Chanda made her debut earlier this season for the Pride on March 19 and came off the bench against the Washington Spirit in the second half. Chanda has made three appearances for the Pride during the 2025 season.

Pride Sign Zara Chavoshi to New Contract

The Orlando Pride also announced Friday the club has reached an agreement with defender Zara Chavoshi on a new contract. The deal is through the 2027 season, with a mutual option for 2028. Chavoshi joined the club ahead of the 2025 season and became the first player Orlando signed directly out of college, following the NWSL’s abolition of the draft as a mechanism for player acquisition last year. Chavoshi made her debut for the Pride on March 23 against NJ/NY Gotham FC and came off the bench. She made her first professional start on May 3 on the road against the Portland Thorns and played 90 minutes. Chavoshi has made four appearances for the Pride during the 2025 season. Also over the weekend, Chavoshi scored her first goal for the Canadian Women’s National Team in a 4-1 win over Costa Rica in an international friendly.

USWNT Defeats Ireland Again in Friendly

The U.S. Women’s National Team beat Ireland 4-0 Sunday at TQL Stadium in an international friendly. It was the second win in a week over Ireland for the USWNT. Orlando Pride defender Emily Sams started the match and played 90 minutes. Lynn Biyendolo scored the opener, while Izzy Rodriguez scored her first goal for the USWNT to extend the lead to 2-0 going into halftime. In the second half, Yazmeen Ryan and Alyssa Thompson each added a goal to seal another win for the USWNT. The USWNT has won four in a row, and the team’s next match will be against Canada Wednesday at Audi Field. Meanwhile, Gisele Thompson and Orlando Pride defender Kerry Abello have left the U.S. women’s national team training camp due to hamstring injuries. Abello last played for the USWNT on June 3 against Jamaica in a friendly.

USMNT Defeats Costa Rica in Penalties in the Gold Cup

The U.S. Men’s National Team defeated Costa Rica 4-3 in penalties after a 2-2 draw in the Concacaf Gold Cup quarterfinals Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium. Orlando City defender Alex Freeman started the match and played 90 minutes. The USMNT trailed 1-0 early in the first half, and Malik Tillman missed a penalty that would have tied the match. However, Diego Luna scored the equalizer just before halftime. In the second half, the USMNT struck quickly with a goal from Max Arfsten to take a 2-1 lead. Costa Rica equalized late in the second half, and after 90 minutes, the game went to penalties. After three rounds, Orlando City fullback Alex Freeman buried his penalty past goalkeeper Keylor Navas to tie it 3-3. Goalkeeper Matt Freese made three saves, and in the sixth round, Damion Downs scored the winning goal to secure a spot for the USMNT in the semifinals. The USMNT will face Guatemala Wednesday at Energizer Park.

FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 Weekend Recap

The Round of 16 kicked off in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup over the weekend. On Saturday, Palmeiras beat Botafogo 1-0 after extra time, with Paulinho scoring the winning goal. Former Lion Facundo Torres came off the bench late in the second half and played 35 minutes. In another match that needed extra time, Chelsea beat 10-man Benfica 4-1 to advance. On Sunday, Joao Neves scored twice as Paris Saint-Germain crushed Inter Miami 4-0. Miami was the last MLS team remaining in the tournament and saw its run come to an end in the Round of 16. Bayern Munich defeated Flamengo 4-2 to advance, joining Palmeiras, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain in the quarterfinals. We have two more matches today, as Inter Milan faces Fluminense, while Manchester City takes on Al-Hilal in Orlando at Camping World Stadium.

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That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday, and I’ll see you next time.

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