Lion Links: 6/26/17

Merry Monday morning, Mane Landers! Did something happen Saturday night? I have missing memories starting around 8:30 p.m. Oh well, it’s a long season, and there’s still plenty of soccer left to play. Always look on the bright side of life, right? Let’s hit the Links!

Good News, Bad News

The USMNT announced the Gold Cup roster and neither Joe Bendik nor Jonathan Spector made the final 23. Back at the beginning of June, both Orlando City players were selected for the preliminary 40-man roster. While we would have been happy for Bendik or Spector had they made the roster, it is definitely better for Orlando City that they will be available for club matches. It should be noted that Bruce Arena can make up to six changes following the group stage.

Camila Becoming a Weapon

The Orlando Pride brought in Camila during the off-season as a defender, but it’s become very apparent that she is a tremendous offensive asset. She has three goals on the season, and has been a driving force on many of the Pride’s attacks.

Earthquakes Shake Up Coaching Staff

San Jose has sacked now-former head coach Dominic Kinnear and assistant John Spencer. The Earthquakes are 6-6-5 and above the Western Conference playoff line but that wasn’t enough to save the jobs of Kinnear and spencer. Chris Leitch has been named head coach and Alex Covelo has been named assistant coach.

NASL Comes to San Diego

Ladies and gentlemen, can I please have your attention. I've just been handed an urgent and horrifying news story. I need all of you to stop what you're doing and listen. Cannonball! Just kidding, the city of San Diego is getting an NASL franchise. Professional footballer, and club majority owner, Demba Ba finalized the deal with the city and NASL last month. An official announcement is expected soon.

Free Kicks

• Germany defeated Cameroon 3-1 yesterday to end up on top of Group B and advance in the Confederations Cup.
• Mexico soccer fans are reluctant to give up one of their favorite chants, despite players asking them to stop, fines being assessed, and potential team sanctions.
• The Video Assisted Referee is being tested, and FC Cincinnati head coach Alan Koch isn’t entirely happy about it. Koch is a bit of a purist, but he knows the change is coming. Orlando City B takes on Cincinnati July 1, 2017.
• FIFA is investigating Russian state-sponsored doping allegations that were outlined in the McLaren Report. Of course, they cannot comment on an ongoing investigation.

That’s going to do it for the start of the week. We only have to wait until Friday for Orlando City to get back on the winning side.