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Lion Links: 3/30/17

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Welcome to this Thursday’s edition of Lion Links. We are back to Lions soccer this weekend as Orlando City is set to take on Columbus Crew SC in an away game that will mark OCSC’s first road trip of the season. I’m personally looking forward to watching the matchup between Ola Kamara and Jonathan Spector.

Orlando City is sure to be tested in this away game, and I, for one, am hoping the Lions overcome road anxiety and find a way to get three points. For now though, lets dig into some Links.

Larin is a Wanted Man

Cyle Larin is on fire and there’s no denying that. His rise in popularity only comes with more mentions of his name far and wide. His talent as a goal scorer is evident on the field, and with this season underway, Larin is a star that is already shining bright.

Larin is getting interest from Goodison Park, the home of Everton FC. With the possibility of its star-studded striker Romelu Lukaku likely leaving in the summer, the Toffees will be left with a void that needs to be filled. Insert in the reported rumors about Everton expressing interest to sign Larin as Lukaku’s replacement and things are looking steamy.

Fans of Everton reacted to the Larin interest, and many seem somewhat excited about the prospect of Cyle joining:

Along with the big dogs of Everton, Larin has attracted attention from two Sky Bet Championship sides. Nottingham Forest and Brighton & Hove Albion are two clubs interested in what the striker can bring to the table.

Those goals have now taken Larin’s overall goalscoring tally for Orlando City to 35 in just 63 appearances for the American outfit and it has been reported that the striker is attracting the attention of a number of English clubs.

Of course our hope as fans is for the beloved striker to stay on board with Orlando City as the main man up top but with other suitors knocking on the door, Larin may be harder and harder to keep.

Orlando City Development Academy Rises to Number Two

The Orlando City Development Academy U-17/18 team has risen to number two in the country after securing two more wins in competitive play.

Character seems to be the common denominator throughout the academy as many of the teams struggled but found ways to overcome the challenges they were presented with.

“Both games were really hard for the boys,” Academy Director and U-17/18s head coach David Longwell said. “They went down in the first game but fought back. I’m really proud of the character they showed.”

Paul Clowes’ Rise With Orlando City

Can you imagine being a part of the marketing team for a new stadium and then playing in that new stadium?

As a marketing intern for Orlando City in 2014, this is the exact situation that Paul Clowes has found himself in. From marketing intern to Orlando City B midfielder.

Clowes will walk onto the field Thursday night at 7:30 as a midfielder for Orlando City B (0-1-0) when the United Soccer League team hosts Louisville City FC (0-1-0) in its home opener at Orlando City Stadium.

“Oh, it’ll be fantastic to walk out,” Clowes said. “It is kind of a proud moment for me to play in that new stadium that I was helping to promote. To see it physically there in downtown, in a city that loves soccer so much, it gave me goose bumps the first time I walked through.”

OCSC Promote Gallagher to Chief Revenue Officer

Chris Gallagher goes from vice president of sales to his new position as OCSC’s chief revenue officer. Gallagher has over 20 years of sales experience across major brands such as the NFL, MLB, and NHL — where he worked in the Florida Panthers’ front office with our own managing editor in the early ‘00s. His success in MLS with Orlando City has helped him move up the ranks, and Gallagher now occupies the position of CRO.

“As we settle into our new home, it is important that we congratulate and celebrate together what a historic occasion this move represents. It is also important that we look toward the future and continue to advance the Club we hold so dear,” Orlando City SC Chief Executive Officer Alex Leitão said.

Under Gallagher, the club stuffed the Citrus Bowl with 60,000+ fans twice, sold out its season ticket allotment and built a waiting list in the thousands.

Orlando City on Facebook Live

The debut of Orlando City on Facebook Live is finally going to be a reality. With MLS recently agreeing with Facebook to stream regular season games on the website, Orlando City will be participating for the first time in this venture.

While the stream will be a first for Orlando City, the Orlando Pride became the first professional team to stream a full regular season match on Facebook Live in 2016. The fans responded with 400,000 tuning in for the stream. 

You can tune in on Saturday at 4 p.m. ET on Univision Deportes’ Facebook page. You can also watch via traditional means on your television. The match will be available in English on Univision Deportes via the SAP feature

Pride Improve to 3-0 in the Preseason

In a scrimmage against the University of Florida in Gainesville, the Orlando Pride captured a 3-0 win. The goal scorers of the game were Kristen Edmonds, Chioma Ubogagu, and Christina Burkenroad. The match may have ended 3-0, but it was the first 45 minutes that set the teams that far apart, as all three goals were captured in the first half of the game.

Kick Around

Well, that is all from me today. If you want related and unrelated information to all things soccer then I may be the follow you desire. Cash me right here: @awesomeniemeier.

Let’s leave you with something to smile about:

Lion Links

Lion Links: 3/17/25

Lions draw on the road, Pride win NWSL season opener, OCB claims two points against Atlanta, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Hello, Mane Landers, and happy St. Patrick’s Day! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I’ve been catching up with friends over the weekend in Chicago. Our Lions and OCB picked up draws, but the Young Lions claimed an extra point in penalties, while the Pride dominated the Stars to start their 2025 NWSL season with a win. We’ve got plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links. 

Lions Draw New York Red Bulls on the Road

Orlando City and the New York Red Bulls split the points in a 2-2 draw at Sports Illustrated Stadium Saturday. The Lions struck first with a goal from Martin Ojeda to take the lead. However, a controversial penalty kick was awarded to the Red Bulls, and Eric Choupo-Boting buried the equalizer to tie the match at one. Marco Pasalic’s goal put Orlando back in front just before halftime. However, just minutes into the second half, the Red Bulls tied the match at 2-2. The Lions had chances to score late in the match, but Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel stopped everything in his path to preserve a point. Orlando City returns home to Inter&Co Stadium on Saturday to take on D.C. United.

Orlando City Signs Gustavo Caraballo as Homegrown Player

After being signed to short-term contracts in previous weeks, Orlando City announced Friday that the club signed midfielder Gustavo Caraballo to a Homegrown Player contract. Caraballo is signed through the 2027 season with a club option for 2028. The 16-year-old midfielder has made two appearances for Orlando this season. Caraballo went through the academy, playing at OCB, and now becomes the youngest player to sign a first-team pro contract. He made his MLS debut earlier this month in the Lions’ 4-2 win over Toronto FC, becoming the youngest player ever to get MLS minutes with Orlando.

Orlando Pride Defeat Chicago Stars in Season Opener

The Orlando Pride began their 2025 NWSL season Friday, beating the Chicago Stars 6-0 at Inter&Co Stadium. Haley McCutcheon, Ally Watt, and Julie Doyle added their names to the scoresheet, while Barbra Banda scored twice. The Pride also got an own goal from Stars defender Hannah Anderson just after halftime. Orlando is unbeaten in its last four matches against Chicago. With six goals, Orlando tied the club record for the most goals scored in a match. It was also the Pride’s first-ever season-opening win. The Pride will be on the road this weekend to face NJ/NY Gotham FC at Sports Illustrated Stadium on Sunday.

OCB Wins Penalty Shootout vs. Atlanta United 2 after 2-2 Draw

Orlando City B drew 2-2 against Atlanta United 2 Sunday at Osceola County Stadium. The Young Lions trailed 1-0 in the first half, but Justin Ellis tied the match just before halftime. Shak Mohammed gave OCB a 2-1 lead in the second half, but Atlanta scored a late equalizer. After 90 minutes, MLS NEXT Pro draws go to penalties, and OCB won the extra point with a 4-1 shootout win. OCB will be back in action on Wednesday, March 26 on the road against Crown Legacy FC.

NWSL Opening Weekend Recap

The National Women’s Soccer League’s opening weekend matches are in the books. The Washington Spirit edged the Houston Dash 2-1 Friday night. On Saturday, the Kansas City Current defeated the Portland Thorns 3-1 as Temwa Chawinga and Debinha scored. The Utah Royals and Bay FC, Racing Louisville and the North Carolina Courage, and the Seattle Reign vs. NJ/NY Gotham FC matches all ended in 1-1 draws. On Sunday, Angel City FC and the San Diego Wave match also ended in a 1-1 draw.

Americans Abroad

We had another busy weekend featuring several Americans in action in Europe just ahead of the international break. Christian Pulisic scored for AC Milan in its Serie A clash against Como. AC Milan held on to win 2-1. Weston Mckennie’s Juventus side fell 3-0 to Fiorentina on the road, suffering a second straight heavy defeat in league play. Tyler Adams played 79 minutes for AFC Bournemouth, but his side lost 2-1 at home to Brentford, while Antonee Robinson played 90 minutes for Fulham, helping his team defeat Tottenham Hotspur 2-0. Tanner Tessmann came off the bench for Lyon in the second half as his side defeated Le Havre 4-2 in Ligue 1. Haji Wright scored a hat trick over the weekend for EFL Championship side Coventry City in a 3-0 victory over Sunderland. Catarina Macario and Chelsea defeated Manchester City 2-1 to win the Women’s League Cup.

Free Kicks

  • Angel City FC and Former Orlando Pride forward Sydney Leroux announced on her Instagram page that she will take a break from professional soccer to focus on her mental health.
  • Boston’s NWSL expansion team will not play under its current name, BOS Nation FC. The club announced over the weekend that it will rebrand and expects to unveil its new name in the next few weeks.
  • Newcastle United defeated Liverpool 2-1 Sunday to win the Carabao Cup, snapping a 70-year domestic trophy drought.
  • In case you missed it, you have to see this late second-half equalizer by Mohamed Traore of Phoenix Rising in a USL Championship match over the weekend against El Paso Locomotive.

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

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 3/14/25

Orlando Pride face the Chicago Stars tonight, 2025 NWSL season set to kick off, San Diego FC’s plan to stop discriminatory chant, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Mark Thor

Happy Friday! The Orlando Pride’s season starts today to kick off another three straight days of Orlando soccer. Orlando City is in action on Saturday, and then we have Orlando City B to enjoy on Sunday. Before we jump into today’s links, let’s all wish a happy birthday to Executive OCSC Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Luiz Muzzi!

Orlando Pride Take On Chicago Stars FC Tonight

The Orlando Pride’s first game of the 2025 NWSL season is finally here, with the team set to begin its title defense at home tonight at 8 p.m. against the Chicago Stars. Before the match, the club will raise banners to celebrate a historic season last year that included winning the NWSL Shield and NWSL Championship. It’s an unfamiliar position for the Pride to start a season from, as the club has undergone quite the transformation in both culture and expectations in recent years.

“It’s going to be such a special moment,” defender and vice-captain Kylie Nadaner said. “I got here when things weren’t great in this club, and there were times where I don’t think that I would ever have predicted that this would be possible. So when that banner is raised, it’s going to be such a special moment, and to see this star on our chest—every time I see it, I’m just so proud and honored to be a part of it.”

The Pride’s season will start with a matchup against a Chicago team they eliminated in the first round of last year’s playoffs. The Stars won’t be the only team with revenge on their mind when facing the Pride, and Orlando will have to navigate the season with a large target on its back. It’s still a bit surreal to acknowledge that considering where this club was only a few years ago.

2025 NWSL Season Kicks Off Tonight

Tonight’s matches are just the first in what should be an exciting start to the NWSL season across the country. While most of us will likely be watching the Pride, the Washington Spirit are also in action at 8 p.m. tonight when they face the Houston Dash. Saturday’s slate features four games with staggered start times for a nice day of soccer, including an intriguing late match pitting NJ/NY Gotham FC against the Seattle Reign. The weekend wraps up on Sunday night with a Cali clash between Angel City FC and the San Diego Wave. If in need of a refresher on each team after a busy off-season, ESPN provided a nice guide heading into this season.

San Diego FC Launches Plan to Stop Anti-Gay Chant

After the use of a homophobic chant in its inaugural home game earlier this month, San Diego FC has announced a plan for addressing it. Starting as soon as Saturday’s home game against the Columbus Crew, there will be increased communication to fans reinforcing that the chant has no place at the stadium. There will be increased security measures as well, with the plan noting that offenders will be identified and ejected. FIFA’s protocol to abandon the match if the behavior persists is also part of the club’s announced plan. Hopefully this all will help nip the problem in the bud.

Europa League Quarterfinals Are Set

Only eight teams remain in this year’s Europa League after some exciting round of 16 matchups. A hat trick by Bruno Fernandes lifted Manchester United to a 4-1 win over Real Sociedad at Old Trafford, while fellow English club Tottenham also advanced after a 3-1 home victory against AZ Alkmaar. As for the Italian clubs, an early red card to Mats Hummels doomed AS Roma in its 3-1 loss to Athletic Club and Lazio’s 1-1 draw with Viktoria Plzen was enough to advance. Fenerbahce beat Rangers 2-0, but Rangers ultimately came out on top in the penalty shootout.

In the quarterfinals, Manchester United faces a Lyon side that breezed through the round of 16, and Rangers will battle Athletic Club. On the other side of the bracket, Tottenham plays Eintracht Frankfurt and Lazio is matched up against Bodo/Glimt.

Free Kicks

  • Enjoy this look into the Pride’s history of home openers over the past nine years in the NWSL.
  • NWSL players will be able to decrease their yellow card accumulation through good behavior this season.

NEW 2025 NWSL FEATURE: Yellow card accumulation total can be decreased through “Good Behavior Incentives”

Taylor Vincent (@tayvincent6.bsky.social) 2025-03-13T14:41:34.708Z

That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend. Go Orlando!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 3/13/25

Getting to know Robin Jansson, Orlando Pride announce 2025 season roster, Orlando City’s watch party schedule, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

How’s it going, Mane Landers? Soccer in the City Beautiful is back and in full swing, with another stacked weekend ahead of us. I’ve been spending most of the week working and getting some reading done before the rest of the month really gets busier for me. For those who like contemporary romance and are looking for a recommendation, First-Time Caller has been a fantastic read so far. But enough about what you should be reading, let’s get to the links!

Getting to Know Robin Jansson

Enjoy taking a stroll with Orlando City center back Robin Jansson, who detailed his role on the team and experience in Orlando. The 33-year-old has become an MLS veteran over the years and talked about how his game has developed since moving from Sweden to the U.S., notably how he’s able to play with the ball at his feet a bit more. As the team’s captain, Jansson provides leadership both on and off the pitch and discussed how he’s fit into the verbal and intense South American culture within the club. He also spoke on how he gives back to the community by visiting kids in the hospital to help them on their journeys.

Orlando Pride Announce Roster for 2025 Season

With the NWSL season only a few days away, the Orlando Pride announced their start-of-season roster. There aren’t too many changes from the team that won both the NWSL Shield and NWSL Championship last year, although Adriana’s transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al Qadsiah FC is notable. New additions acquired this off-season include Zambian forward Prisca Chilufya, World Cup winner Oihane Hernández, and rookie defender Zara Chavoshi. Luana, Simone Charley, and Amanda Allen are the players on the season-ending injury list heading into the 2025 season as well.

Orlando City Reveals 2025 Watch Party Schedule

The schedule for this year’s Orlando City watch parties was announced and fans will be able to watch seven away games at different local pubs. The first will be Saturday at Burton’s Thornton Park for Orlando’s road game against the New York Red Bulls. This should create a nice atmosphere for Orlando’s road rivalry games in May too, as the game against Inter Miami on May 18 will fittingly be watched at Rivals, while the watch party for the game against Atlanta United on May 28 will be at The Hideaway. Orlando’s Decision Day match with Toronto FC will be hosted at Kiwi’s Pub & Grill to close out the regular season. As part of the club’s partnership with the pubs, each one will have access to MLS Season Pass for all of the Lions’ games this year as well.

New NWSL Players to Watch in 2025

Pride fans are well aware that NWSL newcomers played a major role in the league last season, as Barbra Banda was a major reason behind the club’s historic year. This year’s new faces include many players who could impress in their first year in the NWSL, like aforementioned Pride defender Oihane Hernandez. The right back helped Spain win the 2023 Women’s World Cup and bronze at the 2024 Olympics and joined the Pride after two seasons with Real Madrid. She’s skilled on both sides of the ball and gives opponents another obstacle to overcome this season.

OCB Lands in MLS NEXT Pro’s Top 10

The first power rankings of the MLS NEXT Pro season are out and Orlando City B placed sixth. The Young Lions kicked off their season at home on Sunday with a 2-1 win over Columbus Crew 2. A late rally by Columbus nearly spoiled things, but OCB did well to hold onto its lead and secure all three points. Orlando’s next match will be Sunday at Osceola Heritage Park against Atlanta United 2, which lost 1-0 to New York Red Bulls II during the opening weekend.

Free Kicks

  • Chicago Stars forward Mallory Swanson won’t be with the team when it takes on the Pride this Friday due to personal reasons.
  • Although she’s focused on this NWSL season, Washington Spirit forward Trinity Rodman stated that it’s just a matter of when in regards to her making the move to Europe.
  • Seattle Sounders midfielder Paul Arriola was carted off due to a left knee injury during his team’s 4-1 loss to Cruz Azul. It’s tough news for Arriola, who tore his right ACL in 2020.
  • Charlotte FC bolstered its defense by adding left back Souleyman Doumbia on loan from Standard Liège for the 2025 season.
  • The Kansas City Current signed forward Flora Marta Lacho to a two-year contract, making her the first Angolan player in league history. She heads to the U.S. after helping TP Mazembe win the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League last year.
  • The UEFA Champions League quarterfinals are set and each matchup looks to be a good one. Arsenal will take on Real Madrid, Bayern Munich will face Inter Milan, Borussia Dortmund will play Barcelona, and Aston Villa will square off against Paris Saint-Germain.
  • Bos Nation FC hired Amina Bulman as its chief revenue officer. Bulman led the Washington Commanders’ revamp as the NFL team’s chief brand and strategy officer, so a similar brand reset is hopefully on the horizon for the NWSL club.

That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week!

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