Lion Links: 3/27/17

Merry Monday morning, Mane Landers! Well, Orlando City didn’t play because of the international break, but that doesn’t mean there wasn’t plenty to watch. Between the USMNT, Orlando Pride, and OCB, it was a full weekend. I certainly hope you stayed up to witness the U.S. smackdown of Honduras, and here’s hoping the Yanks can repeat that performance tomorrow night against Panama. On to the links!

Will Johnson Takes the Lead

There’s been plenty said about Will Johnson since he’s joined Orlando City. So far it’s been positive enough and Johnson has donned the captain’s band with Kaká out with an injury. Johnson is an experienced pro who is able to play in multiple spots. He’s exactly the type of player that Orlando City needed, as our own Adam Dupere observed. It seems that Head Coach Jason Kreis has done an exceptional job with his off-season roster additions.

Academy Youngsters Making Noise

It seems that the younger members of the Orlando City soccer community are doing the organization proud.

The U18s aren’t the only ones…

The future looks great for the Lions. (That grammar, though, OCSC academy Twitter!)

Arena’s Tactics are the Difference

The USMNT completely dismantled Honduras Friday night. The joke has been that Arena simply put players in their natural positions, unlike former boss, Jurgen Klinsmann. There is more to it than that (though that is a valid point). Arena simplified the game plan for the players, put them in the right spots to succeed, and made the necessary adjustments during the game. The results speak for themselves, and hopefully we’ll see more tomorrow night.

Dempsey Today, Pulisic Tomorrow

Clint Dempsey’s hat trick was deservedly a focus from the USMNT’s 6-0 win over Honduras, and some might argue that he’s the best U.S. player of all time. That being said, the youngster wearing the No. 10 jersey had quite an impact as well. Christian Pulisic scored a goal, had three assists, and created chances all night long. There are those that think he could be the next Landon Donovan for the U.S. or perhaps even better, since he has the benefit of a quicker start to his career than those that came before him, including Donovan. Time will tell, but not only is the future bright for Pulisic, but he’s been shining in the present as well.

Violence in Serbia

There is no lack of violence in Serbia, and sadly it’s not the only time there’s been violence at a Red Star Belgrade match. One year ago, a Red Star supporter was killed when fighting with opposing fans. Sadly, two Russians were taken to the hospital after they were stabbed at a friendly match between Red Star and Lokomotiv Moscow. Ironically, the match was supposed to highlight the good relations between Russia and Serbia. We hope they make a speedy recovery.

I hate to leave you on a down note, so here is a video of funny soccer stuff to start your week. Vamos Orlando!