Lion Links: 6/14/17

Happy Wednesday, Mane Landers. It’s not just any old Wednesday, though — it’s a Wednesday, game day. The Lions open their U.S. Open Cup campaign tonight against Miami FC. More on that game in the Links that follow. There is also news of the return of a certain Pride player named Alex Morgan. So, enough with the intro. Let’s hit the Links!

Central vs. South

The Lions begin U.S. Open Cup play as they welcome in-state rivals, Miami FC tonight. We have your pre-match info covered here at The Mane Land. The showdown looks like a tasty one, as Miami will want to replicate the blueprint the Ft. Lauderdale Strikers used to upset City last season. But Jason Kreis hinted that he plans to field a team with more MLS experience than first thought.

The Sunshine State rivalries do need a nifty name to crown the state champ each year — though it could be a little better than this. Got any ideas? Please post if you do. 

Morgan Returns

The Orlando Pride announced that Alex Morgan is back in Orlando and joining the team soon. The U.S. International is still recovering an injury she picked up while playing with Lyon. Given the injury timetable, Morgan is expected to return in early or mid-July. 

A Rested Pride

With the closing of the international break, the Pride are feeling refreshed for the next slate of NWSL games. It helps that the team left for the break on a high note, beating the Boston Breakers, 2-0. It wasn’t a break for everyone. Marta scored in Brazil’s win yesterday and Dani Weatherholt and the U-23 U.S. Women went undefeated in the Nordic Tournament.  

Mexican Players on the Move

It’s transfer silly season and the rumors are a-swirling. A few of Mexico’s big boys are among those whose futures are filled with question marks. Some of those players have also been linked with MLS moves as well. Chicharito and Carlos Vela are two players interesting to a move State side. Of course, there’s no telling where these guys end up until it happens.

Free Kicks

• Jesse Gonzales, FC Dallas goalkeeper, picked the U.S. over Mexico after Bruce Arena selected him for the Gold Cup roster.
• Orlando’s Kingston will compete in the Mascot Games held in Orlando this year. Go cheer him on!
• Howler Magazine put out a pretty great ad for its subscription if you need something to get your dad this Father’s Day — yes, it’s this weekend.

Thanks for spending time with Lions Links. This is my last contribution to The Mane Land. Thanks for letting me be a small part of the community here. I enjoyed working with the readers and other contributors. By the way, Capitan Citro runs a darn good site and deserves gushing boatloads of credit for its professionalism. So, again, thank you.  

We end with a video featuring Orlando City in a recent FIFA TV spot. Enjoy game day!