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Lion Links: 9/30/17

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8 years ago

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Merry match day, Mane Landers! We’ve got the MLS squad taking on FC Dallas at 4 p.m., and then the Pride travel to North Carolina to take on the Courage at 7 p.m. It’s going to be a purple Saturday, and I know I’m excited for all this soccer. So, let’s not waste any more time, and get to the links!

Lions to Play 100th MLS Match

Tonight, Orlando City will take the field for the 100th time as an MLS squad when the Lions host FC Dallas. There have been plenty of great moments through the first 99 matches. Kaká scoring the first goal for Orlando City in MLS, the stoppage time two-goal rally to start the 2016 season, and even as recently as Wednesday, when the lads scored the most goals in one game in the MLS era for the club. Despite the ups and downs, I know I’ve stuck by the club and will continue to do so for at least the next 100 matches.

MLS Disciplinary Committee is Totally Fair

Remember when the MLS Disciplinary Committee rescinded Kaká’s red card for messing around with his good friend Aurélien Collin? Or that time they rescinded the red card received by Seb Hines who tried to not get into it with a garment named Lloyd Sam, but was shown off? Yeah, neither do I. But they did see fit to rescind Xavier Kouassi’s red card he received against Orlando City. You remember, it was when Xavier decided that he didn’t like the fact that Seb had two perfectly good shins, and wanted to break one of them. Actually, that sounds exactly what I expect from the MLS Disciplinary Committee when it comes to Orlando City and their opponents. Consistency, fairness, and no favoritism whatsoever. Uh huh. Yeah. (And yes, I know the Kaká play wasn’t actually appealed.)

Tom Sermanni’s Got Decisions to Make

With the Pride a lock for the playoffs, Tom Sermanni has some decisions to make regarding who plays, who subs, who sits, and for how long tonight. He might be tempted to rest some of the usual starters for the match against the North Carolina Courage. However, if he does, it could affect the momentum that the Pride have garnered over the last stretch of matches. There are also some players that haven’t seen as much playing time, who might deserve a look in a game that could just be icing on the regular season cake. We’ll find out tonight how he plans to utilize his bevy of excellent talent.

Jasmyne Spencer Interview

With the Pride making the playoffs, it’s certain that they’re going to get some more well deserved attention. Pride forward Jasmyne Spenser sat down with The Equalizer to share her take on the playoffs, the season, and working with players like Marta and Alex Morgan. Of course, her and the team’s biggest goal is to play in the NWSL final in Orlando City Stadium. It won’t be easy, but they are certainly capable of making it happen.

Potential USMNT Shakeup

It’s no secret that the USMNT hasn’t exactly set the world on fire while trying to make it to the World Cup in 2018. That’s why it might be a good idea to make some tweaks to the lineup before it’s too late. The addition of a true number 10 like Lee Nguyen could allow Christian Pulisic a bit more freedom, as opposing teams have smartly double- and triple-teamed the young American at every chance. Perhaps Bruce Arena could switch to a 3-5-2 for the Trinidad and Tobago match. There’s plenty that can be done, but the question is, will there be any such adjustments?

Tonight on 60 Minutes…Christian Pulisic

It’s been nearly 10 years since 60 Minutes profiled a soccer player on the show. In 2008, Anderson Cooper interviewed David Beckham, and the last American was Freddy Adu in 2004, when he made his debut for D.C. United. That’s all just to say how rare it is to have an American soccer player highlighted in this manner. The interview will air on CBS at 7:30 p.m. ET following the NFL game.

Another 1% Donation

Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini is the latest to join in pledging 1% of his salary to Juan Mata’s Common Goal project. According to Mata, the Common Goal project is as follows:

The focus now is on contributions from players, but the the long-term goal is to unlock 1% of the entire football industry’s revenues for grassroots football charities that strengthen their communities through sport.

Other stars include Orlando Pride’s Alex Morgan, and fellow USWNT teammate Megan Rapinoe. Good on Chiellini for contributing to this worthwhile effort.

Free kicks

  • Today’s famous birthdays include T-Pain (31 and on a boat!), Ezra Miller (24, FLASH, ahahh), Olivier Giroud (30, Arsenal footballer), Monica Bellucci (52, Matrix Revolutions), Fran Drescher (59, what a voice), Lauren Holiday (29, former USWNT midfielder), and Barry Williams (62, Greg from The Brady Bunch).
  • In honor of it being Saturday, and as a tribute to Elton John’s exceptional performance in Kingsman: The Golden Circle, here’s one of his classics.

That will do it for today’s links. Make sure you tune in for full coverage of both the Orlando City and Orlando Pride matches. Go City! Go Pride!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 6/6/25

Alex Freeman called up for Concacaf Gold Cup, Orlando Pride get ready for the Houston Dash, Orlando City B plays tonight, and more.

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1 day ago

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June 6, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

Happy Friday! I’ll be spending this weekend celebrating my birthday by beating my friends at mini golf with no mercy but still hope to catch some soccer over the next few days. I’ve also been on a bit of a movie kick and plan on catching Wes Anderson’s new flick at some point soon. But for now, let’s dive into today’s links!

Alex Freeman Called Up For Gold Cup

Orlando City defender Alex Freeman was officially called up by the United States Men’s National Team for the Concacaf Gold Cup this summer. He’s the only Lion who will be at the tournament and is one of seven uncapped USMNT players on the roster. The 20-year-old could receive more playing time than expected, as right back Sergino Dest is not on the roster so that he can recover over the summer. Left back John Tolkin was added to replace Dest, so Freeman has a real shot at making a claim for the position this month. The U.S. will take on Turkey Saturday in the first of two friendlies before its first Gold Cup match against Trinidad & Tobago on June 15.

Orlando Pride Prepares to Host the Houston Dash

With the international break for women’s soccer over, the Orlando Pride return to action Saturday with a home game against the Houston Dash. It should be a great opportunity for the Pride to ease back into the swing of things against a Dash team that’s only scored 10 goals this season. Pride midfielder Ally Lemos spoke on the benefit of being able to rest heading into this match while maintaining a winning mindset from a 3-1 victory on May 23.

Anna Moorhouse Called Up For 2025 Euros

Orlando Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse was named to England’s final roster for the 2025 UEFA European Women’s Championship. She’s one of three goalkeepers on the squad following Mary Earp’s surprise retirement from international soccer, and she will likely compete with fellow uncapped player Khiara Keating for the backup position behind Hannah Hampton. Moorhouse has started in every game for the Pride this season and was an NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year finalist for her record-breaking season last year. England’s Euro run will begin July 5 against France before other group matches against the Netherlands and Wales.

Orlando City B Takes On Huntsville City FC

The Young Lions are riding high after a 2-1 win over Chattanooga FC and will take that momentum into tonight’s road match against Huntsville City FC. Midfielder Noah Levis scored his first career goal in that home win, with Justin Hylton providing the assist in his OCB debut. Orlando’s offense has been hot and cold this season but has a variety of attacking talent that can create chances in different ways. The Young Lions have only won once on the road, but a win tonight would lift them to third in the Eastern Conference.

Free Kicks

  • FIFA Club World Cup action is coming to the City Beautiful this month and Orlando City legend Kaká spoke on how it’s nice for Orlando to host games.
  • San Diego Wave Head Coach Jonas Eidevall was named NWSL Coach of the Month. The Wave were undefeated in May, winning three of their four matches to climb to second in the league standings.
  • The NWSL will allow intraleague loans for all teams, with the players needing to consent to the move in order for it to happen. Denver and Boston’s expansion teams will have access to potentially over $1 million in Allocation Money starting on July 1 to build their rosters before the 2026 season.
  • Atletico Madrid is reportedly close to signing American midfielder Johnny Cardoso from Real Betis.
  • South Korea, Uzbekistan, and Jordan all qualified for the 2026 World Cup, while China was eliminated from contention. Australia beat Japan 1-0 and will qualify so long as it doesn’t lose heavily to Saudi Arabia on June 10.
  • Spain beat France 5-4 in a wild game to reach the UEFA Nations League final against Portugal on Sunday. Lamine Yamal continues to take the world by storm, but a late rally by France nearly completed a comeback.

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

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Lion Links: 6/5/25

MLS All-Star voting update, Kerry Abello shines with USWNT, Sergio Zapata earns recognition, and more.

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2 days ago

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June 5, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Jeremy Reper

How’s it going, Mane Landers? I hope this week has been treating you well as we enjoy some international soccer and prepare for the return of NWSL action this weekend. Before we jump right into today’s links, let’s all wish a happy birthday to Orlando City B midfielder Dylan Judelson!

Pair of Lions Lead MLS All-Star Voting

Voting for this year’s MLS All-Star Game remains underway and an update was provided on which players are leading at each position. Orlando City defender Alex Freeman leads all right backs as he enjoys a breakout season. I was aware of the buzz he’s been getting this year, but it’s still surprising to see a Lion as an All-Star frontrunner. What’s even more surprising is that Pedro Gallese leads the voting for goalkeepers. The Peruvian made a rough gaffe last week, but has otherwise had a stellar season with Orlando that’s included seven clean sheets. Voting will close on June 11, so make sure to get those votes in before then.

Kerry Abello Impresses With USMNT

Orlando Pride defender Kerry Abello made her first appearance for the United States Women’s National Team Tuesday, playing every minute of the 4-0 win over Jamaica. The versatility she’s shown with the Pride translated well in Head Coach Emma Hayes’ system, as she was able to hold things down defensively and contribute to the attack as well. Abello could end up bringing solid depth to the USWNT as Hayes figures out the team’s future core of players. Enjoy this video from the USWNT that provides a look behind the scenes of Abello’s international debut.

Sergio Zapata Named Player of the Month

Sergio Zapata scored a whopping 11 goals for Orlando City’s U-19 team over the course of just four matches in May, winning the honor of MLS NEXT Player of the Month. He had three hat tricks last month, including one against Hoosier Premier at MLS NEXT Fest. Zapata committed to Cornell, so hopefully we’ll get to see him tear it up in the Ivy League over the next couple of years.

Zack Steffen Sustains Knee Injury

Goalkeeper Zack Steffen injured his knee at the United States Men’s National Team’s training camp and will reportedly miss this summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup. It’s rough news for the 30-year-old, as he was expected to compete with Matt Turner for the starting job with the USMNT. He’s been having a great season with the Colorado Rapids and returned to the club for further evaluation on the injury.

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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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Lion Links

Lion Links: 6/4/25

USWNT wins as Abello gets first cap, Orlando Pride’s Concacaf W Champions Cup draw, Club World Cup in Orlando, and more.

Published

3 days ago

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June 4, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. Tuesday was a busy soccer day, especially on the women’s side. We have plenty of Orlando Pride news, and the USWNT secured yet another victory. I’m hoping the good vibes continue since I’ll be coming down to Orlando for the Pride’s match this Saturday. If you’re going to the match, let me know, as I’d love to meet as many of our readers as possible. For now, let’s get to the links.

USWNT Blanks Jamaica

The USWNT defeated Jamaica 4-0 in a friendly at Energizer Park in St. Louis. The Orlando Pride’s Kerry Abello got her first start and her first cap in the match. She went the full 90 minutes and almost had her first international goal in the second half, but the chance went a bit wide of the right post. Ally Sentnor and Lynn Biyendolo each scored a brace as the U.S. rolled to an easy win.

Pride Internationals

Abello wasn’t the only Pride player to make an international appearance. Marta returned to international duty for Brazil getting the start and the captain’s armband in a 2-1 win over Japan. Both Grace Chanda and Barbra Banda started for Zambia in the 2-0 loss to South Africa in the Three Nations Challenge. Congratulations are also due to Zara Chavoshi, who earned her first cap with the Canadian Women’s National Team in the match against Haiti.

Concacaf W Champions Cup Draw

The Concacaf W Champions Cup draw happened yesterday and the Orlando Pride are in Group A with Club America Femenil, CF Pachuca Femenil, LD Alajuelense, and Chorrillo FC. Group B consists of NJ/NY Gotham FC, the Washington Spirit, CF Monterrey Femenil, Vancouver Rise FC Academy, and Alianza Women FC. The competition kicks off Aug. 19-21.

FIFA Loves Orlando

FIFA President Gianni Infantino sat for an interview with Jamie Seh of WKMG Orlando. Infantino spoke about the upcoming Club World Cup matches at Inter&Co Stadium and Camping World Stadium. FIFA loves Orlando enough for the city to host the Club World Cup, but not the actual World Cup. Here is the schedule for the matches in Orlando. We will be bringing you coverage of these matches.

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That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for the return of the Orlando Pride this weekend. Vamos Orlando!

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