Lion Links
Lion Links: 10/5/17

We have a very eventful Thursday going on here at The Mane Land, so let’s kick you off with your daily dose of Lion Links. The U.S. Men’s National Team takes over Orlando City Stadium tomorrow evening, The Pride are prepping for the playoffs, OCB is making its final push for the USL playoffs, and so much more, so lets just jump right into it!
Orlando Makes World Cup Potential Host City List
The United 2026 bid has announced the narrowed down list to 32 potential cities (from 41) that could host matches at the 2026 World Cup. Orlando has made the cut! The list includes four cities in Canada, three in Mexico and 25 cities in the United States. So, what now?
During the next stage of the bid process, the United Bid Committee will integrate the 32 potential host cities into the united bid strategy and vision, as well as work with local officials to finalize the hosting documents required by FIFA. Representatives from the 32 potential host cities will travel to Houston, Texas during the week of Nov. 13 for a working session with the United Bid Committee.
Being recognized now as a soccer city makes all of us here at The Mane Land very happy and proud.
Alexi Lalas Smells Controversy
As we reported earlier in the week, FC Dallas may have fielded an ineligible lineup against Orlando City over the weekend. It seems like others in the American soccer community have taken notice. Former USMNT defender, and current commentator for Fox, Alexei Lalas has pointed out that Major League Soccer needs to make a statement on it, and as Orlando City fans, we all hope the (correct) ruling comes quickly.
Seems like @FCDallas broke the rules and a 3-0 victory should be awarded to @OrlandoCitySC. Hey @MLS, can we get a ruling here? https://t.co/BYWpenBEeJ
— Alexi Lalas (@AlexiLalas) October 4, 2017
Alex Morgan Apologizes
As you may have heard, Orlando Pride star Alex Morgan got in trouble with the mouse recently, as her, along with Orlando City players Giles Barnes and Donny Toia, were kicked out of Epcot, due to being loud, belligerent, and impaired, according to a witness account. I guess that is the potential that you can find when drinking around the world. Morgan has since apologized for her actions, and we think she definitely deserves a pass for this one.
I want to apologize for my actions that occurred over the weekend. I will learn from this make sure it does not happen again. #liveandlearn
— Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13) October 4, 2017
Pride Give Tom Sermanni a Contract Extension
Tom Sermanni has just signed a new contract extension to extend his stay with the Orlando Pride. Sermanni put pen to paper yesterday, and though the terms of his extension weren’t made public by the club, we can say we are definitely excited to see him back at the helm for years to come.
Pride Finalists for NWSL Season Awards
The Orlando Pride’s rise to third place in the NWSL and the club’s first playoff berth has people around the league taking notice. The NWSL award finalists were announced yesterday and Pride names are all over the place. Tom Sermanni is a finalist for NWSL Coach of the Year. Marta is a league MVP finalist. Both Steph Catley and Ali Krieger are in the running for Defender of the Year. Dan Lauletta over at The Equalizer made his picks already, including some love for the Pride.
Congratulations to all involved. Fan voting is now open. You know what to do.
Marta Named NWSL Player of the Month
Brazilian superstar Marta continues to rack up the accolades. In addition to becoming a league MVP finalist, she became the second Pride player ever to win an NWSL Player of the Month Award. Following Alex Morgan taking home the honor for August, Marta was given the nod for September. Marta scored goals in both Pride victories in September and helped lead Orlando to a 2-0-2 mark in the final month of the regular season.
Orlando to Become the Next Fortress for the USMNT?
At such a vital stage in World Cup qualifying, the USMNT needs any boost it can get, Arielle Castillo from MLSsoccer.com seems to think that Orlando City Stadium can become the next fortress to write itself into the mythology of U.S. Soccer. A win on Friday increases the likelihood of the USMNT’s qualification hopes. The rocking environment echoing from “The Wall” is likely to bring something new to the table, and hopefully bring an incredibly important three points the USMNT’s way.
Free Kicks
- Well, hooligans are everywhere, but it seems as though this one got caught. The Atlanta United fan that threw his beer at Referee Armando Villarreal was arrested and charged.
- Some hometown boys are representing the Stars & Stripes here in Orlando tomorrow. Dax McCarty of Winter Park and Graham Zusi of Longwood are both very excited to represent their country in their hometown.
- Azteca and Wembley often come to mind when you think of a country that plays in a national stadium. Forbes has argued that maybe it’s time the United States follows suit.
- Bruce Arena may be looking for extra help for the USMNT ahead of these qualifiers, as he’s called in former coach Bob Bradley for assistance.
- Amid all the protests in the NFL surrounding the National Anthem, Bruce Arena said he doesn’t expect any players to kneel on Friday.
- The 2017 USL Cup will be televised on ESPNU. Mike Watts, Kate Markgraf, and Julie Stewart-Binks will be your broadcasters.
- Speaking of the USL, the league is ensuring it will be fully compliant with Division 2 status requirements on its final application.
- And finally, in the most important piece of journalism of the day, if you’ve ever wondered what character from The Simpsons your favorite Premier League club would be, you might want to check out this link. My favorite club got Bart Simpson.
Well, I think that just about covers it all. Take some time. Digest it — perhaps with a bowl of cereal or a hot cup of coffee. We have a hell of a weekend ahead of us in regards to the Pride, OCB, and the USMNT. So buckle up, there is sure to be tons of analysis coming your way throughout the weekend from The Mane Land.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 7/2/25
Big names leave Toronto FC, hot conditions in Club World Cup match, FIFPRO makes ACL recommendations, and more.

Happy Wednesday, everyone. It already feels like it’s been a long week, as I just got home from being out of town traveling up and down the East Coast for the last few days. The soccer world hasn’t stopped in my absence though, and as usual we have a lot to cover today. Let’s wish a happy birthday to OCB defender Tahir Reid-Brown, and jump into today’s links!
Italians Leave Toronto FC
It’s the end of an era at Toronto FC, as the club has parted ways with both Federico Bernardeschi, and Lorenzo Insigne. The Reds used both of their two buyouts of guaranteed contracts this season in order to get the transactions done, so the club was pretty keen to get them out the door. It’s hard to blame the Reds, as Insigne was the second-highest paid player in the league while Bernardeschi was the fifth highest. They didn’t have much to show for it though, as Bernardeschi had 26 goals and 22 assists in 99 games across all competitions, while Insigne had 19 goals and 17 assists in 76 matches. TFC never made the playoffs while the duo was on the team, and the decision to turn the page is an understandable one.
Difficult Conditions in Juventus vs. Real Madrid
The Club World Cup Round of 16 concluded on Tuesday, with Real Madrid knocking off Juventus 1-0 in afternoon match. Kylian Mbappe made his tournament debut for Madrid as a substitute, but it was Gonzalo Garcia’s 54th-minute goal that made the difference in the game. Juve boss Igor Tudor highlighted the difficult conditions in Miami, saying in his postgame press conference that 10 different players asked to come off the field during the game. Tudor didn’t outright blame the loss on the high heat and humidity during the 3 p.m. kickoff at Hard Rock Stadium, but noted that they were among several factors that made the game a very difficult one for his side.
FIFPRO Makes Recommendations to Curb ACL Tears
Amid a rash of ACL injuries to women’s soccer players, FIFPRO has made some recommendations to cut down on the rate at which they occur. Rather than focusing on things that can’t be controlled, the federation has suggested modifying the calendar, number of games, and the playing surfaces. FIFPRO member Alex Culvin is calling for minimum standards in the women’s game relating to pitch conditions and access to physiotherapists. More research around risk factors is also necessary, as is implementing preventative exercises at the youth levels of the game.
Transfer Rumor Roundup
Summer transfer business is in full swing, so let’s catch up on some of the hot rumors currently flying around. First up, Arsenal is said to be in the final stages of signing Viktor Gyokeres to a five-year deal. Staying in the Premier League, Manchester United is reportedly interested in signing midfielder Fabian Ruiz from Paris Saint-Germain. Juventus reportedly is close to signing Jonathan David after his contract with Lille expired. Finally, Bayern Munich is reportedly preparing a formal offer for Liverpool for Colombian winger Luis Diaz.
Free Kicks
- Orlando City is down a spot to no. 9 in the MLS.com power rankings.
- Landon Donovan says he has insider information that there are building tensions between Jesse Marsch and both players and officials within the Canadian Soccer Federation.
- The New York Cosmos will reportedly be back as a USL League One team that is set to begin play in the 2026 season.
- Haslam Sports Group has sold a 10% stake in the Columbus Crew.
- A drone not belonging to the United States Men’s National Team was spotted filming training on Tuesday.
That’s all I have for you this morning. Vamos Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 7/1/25
Pride signings, OCB draws, both U.S. national teams in action Wednesday, and more.

Welcome to July, Mane Landers. If you’re like me, you balanced the excitement and dread of the USMNT advancing on penalty kicks the other night. It was one thing watching Guatemala take out Canada but a whole other level of heart palpitating stress while watching the U.S. avoid a similar fate. There’s no time to relax with plenty of soccer to watch as we head towards Independence Day. Before we get to the links, please join us in wishing Orlando Pride/USWNT defender Emily Sams and OCB defender Clovis Archange each a happy birthday.
Orlando Pride Signings
The Orlando Pride announced a pair of transactions Monday. Midfielder Viviana Villacorta and the club have agreed to exercise the midfielder’s mutual option for the 2026 season. Villacorta was the No. 9 overall pick in the 2021 NWSL Draft. The Pride also signed midfielder Ally Lemos to a new contract through the 2027 season with a mutual option for 2028. The Pride selected Lemos with the No. 9 overall pick of the 2024 NWSL Draft. Orlando continues to lock down current players ahead of time. Now, we wait to see if any new players will be added.
OCB Earns a Point on the Road
Orlando City B played Philadelphia Union II to a 1-1 draw in a Monday afternoon match. Unfortunately, the Young Lions lost the end-of-regulation shootout 4-2 and did not get the additional point. Gustavo Caraballo assisted Jackson Platts on the early goal for OCB. Philadelphia equalized early in the second half. Carlos Mercado was the difference maker in the match, recording a career-high 12 saves.
USMNT’s Gold Cup Run Continues vs. Guatemala
The USMNT will face Guatemala Wednesday night in a 2025 Gold Cup semifinal match. The U.S. advanced past Costa Rica on penalties thanks to a stellar performance from goalkeeper Matt Freese. Guatemala stunned Canada with a second-half equalizer and advanced on penalty kicks. Guatemala has been the overachieving underdog of the competition so far. This will be the USMNT’s 17th Gold Cup semifinal appearance.
USWNT Hosts Canada
The USWNT will host Canada in a third friendly of this international window Wednesday at Washington, D.C.’s Audi Field. The U.S. is coming off two 4-0 victories over the Republic of Ireland. Canada should prove a tougher opponent for Emma Hayes’ squad. There is a possibility that the match will feature two Orlando Pride players — Emily Sams for the U.S. and Zara Chavoshi for Canada. Kerry Abello has returned to her club team after picking up a knock.
Free Kicks
- The Orlando Pride’s Anna Moorhouse is one of many NWSL players that may feature in the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro competition.
- Kristie Mewis is leaving West Ham United after only four appearances in 18 months. He time was limited due to injuries and then pregnancy.
- Global players’ union FIFPRO has concerns about the potential intense heat at the FIFA Club World Cup next year.
- Botafogo fired coach Renato Paiva after Brazilian rival Pal defeated Botafogo in the Club World Cup. Paiva was only in the job for four months.
- USMNT midfielder Malik Tillman may be headed to Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga.
- Former Orlando Pride midfielder Erika Tymrak has retired from professional soccer.
That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for Orlando City’s match against Charlotte FC this weekend. Vamos Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 6/30/25
Lions fall to FC Cincinnati, USWNT beats Ireland, USMNT defeats Costa Rica in penalties, and more.

Hello, Mane Landers! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I’ve been busy at work but got to catch up with friends at a Chicago White Sox game. Let’s wish a happy birthday to Orlando City midfielder Joran Gerbet, who turns 25 today. Our Lions were the only team in action over the weekend while the Pride and OCB were off. We’ve got plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.
Lions Fall at Home to FC Cincinnati
Orlando City fell 2-1 to FC Cincinnati Saturday at Inter&Co Stadium, seeing its two-match winning streak end. The Lions trailed 2-0, with Evander scoring both goals for FC Cincinnati. Marco Pasalic pulled one back for Orlando, but it was not enough as FC Cincinnati claimed the three points and remain second in the Eastern Conference standings with 39 points. Orlando City is fifth with 33 points. The Lions will travel to face Charlotte FC Saturday at Bank of America Stadium.
Pride and Grace Chanda Exercise Mutual Option for 2026 Season
On Friday, the Orlando Pride announced the club and Grace Chanda reached an agreement to exercise their mutual option for the 2026 season. Chanda joined Orlando last summer but was placed on the Season-Ending Injury list after sustaining an injury while playing for Zambia at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Chanda made her debut earlier this season for the Pride on March 19 and came off the bench against the Washington Spirit in the second half. Chanda has made three appearances for the Pride during the 2025 season.
Pride Sign Zara Chavoshi to New Contract
The Orlando Pride also announced Friday the club has reached an agreement with defender Zara Chavoshi on a new contract. The deal is through the 2027 season, with a mutual option for 2028. Chavoshi joined the club ahead of the 2025 season and became the first player Orlando signed directly out of college, following the NWSL’s abolition of the draft as a mechanism for player acquisition last year. Chavoshi made her debut for the Pride on March 23 against NJ/NY Gotham FC and came off the bench. She made her first professional start on May 3 on the road against the Portland Thorns and played 90 minutes. Chavoshi has made four appearances for the Pride during the 2025 season. Also over the weekend, Chavoshi scored her first goal for the Canadian Women’s National Team in a 4-1 win over Costa Rica in an international friendly.
USWNT Defeats Ireland Again in Friendly
The U.S. Women’s National Team beat Ireland 4-0 Sunday at TQL Stadium in an international friendly. It was the second win in a week over Ireland for the USWNT. Orlando Pride defender Emily Sams started the match and played 90 minutes. Lynn Biyendolo scored the opener, while Izzy Rodriguez scored her first goal for the USWNT to extend the lead to 2-0 going into halftime. In the second half, Yazmeen Ryan and Alyssa Thompson each added a goal to seal another win for the USWNT. The USWNT has won four in a row, and the team’s next match will be against Canada Wednesday at Audi Field. Meanwhile, Gisele Thompson and Orlando Pride defender Kerry Abello have left the U.S. women’s national team training camp due to hamstring injuries. Abello last played for the USWNT on June 3 against Jamaica in a friendly.
USMNT Defeats Costa Rica in Penalties in the Gold Cup
The U.S. Men’s National Team defeated Costa Rica 4-3 in penalties after a 2-2 draw in the Concacaf Gold Cup quarterfinals Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium. Orlando City defender Alex Freeman started the match and played 90 minutes. The USMNT trailed 1-0 early in the first half, and Malik Tillman missed a penalty that would have tied the match. However, Diego Luna scored the equalizer just before halftime. In the second half, the USMNT struck quickly with a goal from Max Arfsten to take a 2-1 lead. Costa Rica equalized late in the second half, and after 90 minutes, the game went to penalties. After three rounds, Orlando City fullback Alex Freeman buried his penalty past goalkeeper Keylor Navas to tie it 3-3. Goalkeeper Matt Freese made three saves, and in the sixth round, Damion Downs scored the winning goal to secure a spot for the USMNT in the semifinals. The USMNT will face Guatemala Wednesday at Energizer Park.
FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 Weekend Recap
The Round of 16 kicked off in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup over the weekend. On Saturday, Palmeiras beat Botafogo 1-0 after extra time, with Paulinho scoring the winning goal. Former Lion Facundo Torres came off the bench late in the second half and played 35 minutes. In another match that needed extra time, Chelsea beat 10-man Benfica 4-1 to advance. On Sunday, Joao Neves scored twice as Paris Saint-Germain crushed Inter Miami 4-0. Miami was the last MLS team remaining in the tournament and saw its run come to an end in the Round of 16. Bayern Munich defeated Flamengo 4-2 to advance, joining Palmeiras, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain in the quarterfinals. We have two more matches today, as Inter Milan faces Fluminense, while Manchester City takes on Al-Hilal in Orlando at Camping World Stadium.
Free Kicks
- Over the weekend, the Houston Dynamo defeated St. Louis City 1-0. The club announced before the match that it was former Lion Nico Lodeiro’s final match with the Dynamo as he came off the bench late in the second half and played the final five minutes.
- MLS NEXT Pro announced the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro Invitational over the weekend. The matchup will feature MLS NEXT Pro champions North Texas SC taking on Liga Expansion MX champions Club Deportivo Tapatio on July 26 at Toyota Stadium.
- LAFC and forward Olivier Giroud have reached an agreement to terminate his contract, and he will reportedly sign a contract to return home and join Lille in Ligue 1.
- The U-17 U.S. Women’s National Team lost 3-0 to Japan in a friendly Saturday at CPKC Stadium. The two sides will meet again in a closed-door match July 1, with the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup scheduled to take place this fall in Morocco.
- Forbes.com featured an article that provides insight into the cost of extreme weather delays at the FIFA Club World Cup, how climate change has impacted the global sport, and the economic ramifications for the tournament.
- Guatemala eliminated Canada 6-5 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to advance to the semifinals in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup or the first time since 1996.
That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday, and I’ll see you next time.
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