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Intelligence Report: Orlando City at San Jose Earthquakes

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8 years ago

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Orlando City (6-3-1, 19 points) is looking to stop a three-game winless skid dead in its tracks tomorrow night against the San Jose Earthquakes (4-4-3, 15 points). The Quakes are 3-0-2 at home this season, which isn’t great news for a Lions side that has struggled away from home (1-3-0).

Compounding Orlando’s problems is a crushingly packed schedule through May and into June that has already taken its toll in Houston and could have a similar impact against another 4-3-3 formation in San Jose. The Lions haven’t won a game in two trips to California, drawing San Jose, 1-1, in 2015. Orlando was down a man for more than half of that game, so it was a good point. Last year’s trip to play the Galaxy started a run of 0-4-1 that ruined City’s playoff chances. Will the third trip to the Golden State be a charm?

Here to give us the San Jose perspective is Nerdy Gales from SB Nation’s Earthquakes blog, Center Line Soccer. I also answered Nerdy’s questions, which you can catch over at their place.

We haven’t seen the Earthquakes since Adrian Heath was still Orlando City’s coach. What is different about the 2017 San Jose squad?

Nerdy Gales: There are four notable additions that are proving productive for the Earthquakes this year.

Jahmir Hyka, at number 10 and dubbed the Albanian Messi, is a dynamic new midfielder signed from Swiss Super League’s Luzern. Despite his diminutive stature (hence the nickname) he can control the ball, has good pace and creativity — he complements Anibal Godoy very well in midfield, and has two goals and three assists on the season. 

Nick Lima is the Earthquakes’ second Homegrown Player; the first was Tommy Thompson. Lima came up through local academies and then to the University of California, where he was converted from a forward to defender. He performs well at right back, and his experience in attack makes him a talent to watch. He tackles opposing wingers effectively, and his attacking mentality has led to one goal in eight starts. He hasn’t seen any action in the last couple of games, and fans are wondering why. 

Florian Jungwirth, is a new defender signed after two and a half seasons with SV Darmstadt 98 of the German Bundesliga. He’s been starting at center back since new DP Harold Cummings was injured (and has yet to play this season), and has settled in well with Victor Bernardez. He’s also starting to work well with Chris Wondolowski, evidenced by his two assists to Wondo’s brace in the recent 3-0 victory over the Portland Timbers. One of the most vocal players on the squad, his enthusiasm is unquestionable, and he, Wondo, and Hyka lead the Quakes players to thank the fans after each home game. 

Costa Rican Marco Ureña (via Brondy IF) is proving his worth, deflecting attention from Chris Wondolowski. While he only has tallied one goal and one assist so far, he has a creativity that benefits the players around him. He’s up there in terms of shots on goal with Wondo, and I expect he’ll continue to augment his own stats as the season progresses.   

What is the overall thought behind the 2017 Earthquakes? Are fans waiting for a swoon after the team’s decent start or is the feeling that this year Dominic Kinnear’s club puts it together and makes it to the postseason?

NG: Consistently inconsistent. From where I sit, the fans can enjoy a wonderfully cohesive performance, such as the 3-0 victory over the Timbers one week, and then be dismayed by a lackluster performance on the road against the Colorado Rapids the next. It’s frustrating, perplexing, and disorienting. 

In my opinion, the Earthquakes haven’t really put in a robust run of games from which to swoon. Thus far, this season is fast becoming reminiscent of the 2016 season, in which the Earthquakes finished ninth in the Western Conference (after finishing seventh in 2015, and ninth in 2014). This stretch hasn’t all been on Kinnear’s watch, but missing another postseason this year won’t bode well for the coaching staff. 

San Jose is one of the league’s unbeaten teams at home. Aside from the obvious “it’s hard to win on the road in MLS” thing, do the Earthquakes do things differently at home than they do on the road?

NG: Without some serious data analysis that involves spreadsheets, statistics, and a minimum of three espressos, I’m at a loss to put my finger on the difference between the home and away performances of the Earthquakes (3-0-2 & 1-4-1 respectively) — and that seems to be an issue for Orlando too (5-0-1 & 1-3-0). Is it jet lag? Orlando will be kicking off at 10:30 p.m. ET, so maybe that will work in the Earthquakes’ favor.   

The Earthquakes don’t need to do anything differently at home. It’s worth considering what the Earthquakes do differently on the road, and focus there on the fixing that shabby away record. Intuitively, it feels like the passing suffers in the away version of the Earthquakes, and productive attacks are rare. Overall, the Earthquakes’ passing accuracy (84%) was better than Colorado (82%), but that fell to 53% in the final third (compared to 72% for the Rapids). I suspect the Earthquakes realize that, and will also be looking to fill in the defensive gaps that let in three goals last weekend. In the meantime, I’m brewing a double espresso and firing up a spreadsheet.

Can you please let us know about any injury or suspension absences for Wednesday, and your predictions for the starting XI (i.e. will we expect some squad rotation due to the Quakes facing Dallas this weekend) and final score?

NG: Long-term absences include Quincy Amarikwa (F, knee); Marvell Wynne (D, heart abnormality); Harold Cummings (D, leg surgery); and Shea Salinas (M, knee injury). Victor Bernardez (D) is listed as questionable with a calf injury. 

I think Kinnear may make several changes from the last lineup, given the short turnaround. If Bernárdez can’t go, then Kinnear has previously put Godoy on the back line, in which case I would add Dawkins to the midfield. Given that the Earthquakes will have to deal with Cerén and Kaká, then he might opt for a more experienced (if depleted) back line, so maybe Sarkodie gets the start over Lima or Cato (who is still getting used to playing right back, and whose advantage is speed rather than size). My heart says Lima, so here’s my lineup, assuming Bernardez starts — let’s see what Kinnear does: 

David Bingham; Shaun Francis, Victor Bernárdez, Florian Jungwirth, Nick Lima; Darwin Cerén, Jahmir Hyka, Anibal Godoy; Danny Hoesen, Marco Ureña, Chris Wondolowski.

Prediction: a high scoring game — 3-2 Earthquakes.

Big thanks to Nerdy from Center Line Soccer for stopping by and giving us some insight on the San Jose Earthquakes.

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Lion Links: 12/5/24

Video from the Pride’s championship win, Orlando City’s U-19s played well in November, a new deal for Don Garber, and more.

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3 hours ago

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December 5, 2024

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

How’s it going, Mane Landers? It’s been a long week, but I’ve at least been able to get some errands knocked out. I’m looking forward to hanging out with friends over the weekend and getting some more reading done before the year is up. Let’s dive into today’s links from around the soccer world!

Sights and Sounds From Orlando Pride Title Win

The Orlando Pride made history by winning their first NWSL title last month and the club provided an awesome look behind the scenes of the big win in Kansas City. The video covers everything from Marta’s pre-game pep talk that will have you willing to run through walls to the final whistle that wrapped up the greatest victory in club history. It’s also great to see Barbra Banda’s winning goal from even more angles.

Orlando City’s U-19 Team Stands Out

In MLS NEXT, Orlando City’s U-19 squad is the only undefeated team remaining in its age group and was noted as one of the top performing teams of November. The Baby Lions won all four of their games last month, including a pair of big 6-2 wins against both CF Montreal and Charlotte FC. Justin Ellis had a hat trick in the match against Montreal and scored seven total goals last month. It’s been a great year for the 17-year-old, as he also scored in each of the United States U-18 Men’s National Team’s friendlies against Peru and Japan in September.

Don Garber Signs Contract Extension

MLS Commissioner Don Garber won’t be leaving the league anytime soon after signing a four-year contract extension. The 67-year-old has been the league’s commissioner since 1999 and the league has experienced plenty of growth over the course of his 25-year tenure. He also negotiated the $2.5 billion broadcasting deal with Apple that will last 10 years. Only time will tell if Garber will stay on as commissioner once this extension ends following the 2027 season.

Referees Speak On PRO Interference

You will need to get through the paywall for the full details, as The Athletic published a great article regarding the interference from the Professional Referee Organization in MLS and NWSL games. Matches already get disrupted by VAR checks, but officials have also had to deal with PRO managers weighing in on their decisions. A transcript provided by a video assistant referee who requested anonymity showcased one such incident in a regular-season game, with the PRO manager wanting another look at a play to be made. The delays not only disrupt the flow of things, but it opens the door for others to cast suspicion on the process as well.

Free Kicks

  • FIFA announced DAZN as the exclusive global broadcaster for next year’s FIFA Club World Cup. The platform will stream all 63 games of the tournament at no cost for those watching.
  • The Seattle Sounders confirmed that Raul Ruidiaz is leaving the club after seven seasons. The 34-year-old is the club’s all-time leading scorer with 86 goals across all competitions. This move opens up a Designated Player spot for a Sounders side that reached the Western Conference final.
  • Liverpool managed a comeback but gave up a late equalizer in a 3-3 draw with Newcastle that allowed Chelsea and Arsenal to close the gap to seven points.
  • In a moment reminiscent of Rodrigo Schlegel’s heroics, 19-year-old left back Pol Arnau stepped up as an emergency goalkeeper for fourth-division side Lugrones against La Liga’s Girona in the Copa del Rey. Arnau made saves to send the game to a shootout and then stopped a penalty en route to victory.

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

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Lion Links: 12/4/24

USWNT defeats the Netherlands, U.S. player awards, Jill Ellis changes jobs, and more.

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1 day ago

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December 4, 2024

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers! We have a U.S. Soccer-heavy news day for you, which is in no way a bad thing. I hope you’re staying warm as we get a bit of colder weather in the Sunshine State. I know I’m loving the bit of chill in the air. Let’s get to today’s links.

USWNT Defeats the Netherlands

The USWNT needed to come from behind to defeat the Netherlands 2-1 Tuesday in the Hague. Lynn Williams scored the match-winning goal in the 71st minute, but the U.S. needed some help from an own goal at the end of the first half to secure the victory. Veerle Buurman put the hosts up early, and the Netherlands dominated the first half. Perhaps if Emma Hayes had given Orlando Pride defender and NWSL Defender of the Year Emily Sams the start then that goal could have been prevented. Unfortunately, Sams did not see the pitch.

It was also Alyssa Naeher’s final international match as well as the final game of the year for the U.S. Prior to the match, Dutch captain Daniëlle van de Donk presented Naeher with a jersey and a bouquet. The long time USWNT keeper didn’t keep a clean sheet, but she did make several key saves to help her team to victory.

Award Season is Here

It’s that time of the year when awards and accolades are doled out, including U.S. Soccer End of the Year awards. The voting for the awards starts Dec. 4 and runs through Dec. 13. The usual suspects are in contention for the Male and Female Player of the Year awards. On the men’s side you have players like Christian Pulisic, Tim Ream, and Ricardo Pepi. On the women’s side you have players like Sophia Smith, Alyssa Naeher, and Naomi Girma.

Former USWNT midfielder Carli Lloyd was voted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame on her first year of eligibility. She will be inducted on May 3, 2025. Lloyd making the cut first time isn’t really a big surprise.

The Guardian has released its player rankings (100-71) for the best female footballers of 2024. Players 70-1 are still to come. Orlando Pride center back Rafaelle came in at No. 95. I’m certain we can expect plenty more appearances by Pride players as the rest of the names are revealed.

Pulisic: The Docuseries

Christian Pulisic is one of the most famous American footballers in the world. Now, he has his own docuseries coming out Dec. 9 on Paramount+. The series will provide behind-the-scenes access to Pulisic as he navigates his time with club and country while preparing for the 2026 World Cup. Former USMNT stiker Jozy Altidore might be watching it as he stated his admiration for Pulisic during a recent visit with the U.S. squad in St. Louis.

Jill Ellis’ New Gig

With the allegations of a toxic and hostile work environment at the San Diego Wave under Jill Ellis’ watch, the former USWNT boss left her position with the club to assume the position of Chief of Football at FIFA. There’s nothing quite like leaving a toxic and hostile work environment for an office with FIFA. Hopefully, Ellis will be able to tell the difference between the two. Ellis’ departure is part of a transition period for the Wave.

Free Kicks

That will do it for today. Make sure you check out our Season in Review articles for the Orlando Pride players, already underway, and the upcoming ones for Orlando City. Vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links: 12/3/24

Orlando Pride lead early 2025 NWSL rankings, Americans in midweek action, MLS transfer news roundup, and more.

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2 days ago

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December 3, 2024

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

Happy Tuesday, everyone. I hope you had an enjoyable Thanksgiving, and aren’t too crestfallen to be back at work if you were lucky enough to get some time off. Saturday’s game may not have gone the way we wanted it to, but it was still a vastly enjoyable season that I’ll look back on fondly. We have a lot to talk over today, so let’s wish David Brekalo a happy birthday and get into the links!

Orlando Pride Top Early 2025 NWSL Rankings

The National Women’s Soccer League season has only just ended, but it’s never too soon to start looking ahead to next year, so let’s have a look at how the teams are stacking up at the moment. As is right and just, the Orlando Pride top the list after winning both the NWSL Shield and NWSL Championship this year, although there’s the question of whether Marta will be with the team in 2025 now that she’s a free agent. The runner-up Washington Spirit come in at second, with other semifinalists NJ/NY Gotham FC and the Kansas City Current at third and fourth, respectively. The Houston Dash are at the other end of the list, as they currently don’t have a coach, general manager, or sporting director after a rough season.

What to Watch for Against the Netherlands

The United States Women’s National Team takes on the Netherlands today in the team’s final match of 2024. Even though it’s a friendly there are still plenty of things to keep an eye on. Alyssa Naeher’s final international match will rightly grab a lot of the headlines, considering how long and illustrious her career has been with the USWNT. Newly committed Lily Yohannes will have a chance to show what she can do in the attack in the absence of big names like Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman, and Mallory Swanson. Jaedyn Shaw finds herself in a similar situation as well. If that wasn’t enough, we may also have a chance to see Pride defender Emily Sams, who didn’t appear in the team’s previous game against England.

Americans in Midweek Action

There are a number of Americans who are in action this week, so make sure you have everything noted and marked down on your calendar. Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, and AC Milan get things started today when they take on Sassuolo in the Coppa Italia’s round of 16. Thursday has Antonee Robinson and Fulham welcoming Brighton and Hove Albion to Craven Cottage in English Premier League play, while Tyler Adams and Bournemouth travel to play Tottenham Hotspur. Things wrap up on Friday with Ricardo Pepi, Malik Tillman, Richy Ledezma, and PSV Eindhoven hosting FC Twente in Eredivisie play.

MLS Transfer Roundup

Plenty of MLS teams are busy making off-season moves, and we have a few that we need to cover. We start in the realm of rumor, where new San Jose Earthquakes coach Bruce Arena has reportedly traded for Mark Anthony-Kaye, Dave Romney, and Ian Harkes from the New England Revolution. Arena worked with all three during his time with the Revs, and Tom Bogert reports that San Jose is giving around $500,000 in General Allocation Money and an international roster spot in exchange. We then shift to confirmed moves, where we know that FC Cincinnati has permanently acquired Luca Orellana after he spent 2024 on loan with the Knifey Lions to great effect. Cincy also announced that it signed defender Bret Halsey to a contract extension.

Free Kicks

  • Barba Banda and Marta are both finalists for the 2024 FIFPRO World 11.
  • Congratulations to Orlando City defender Dagur Dan Thorhallsson, who announced on Instagram that his family has a little one is on the way.

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

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