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Lion Links: 11/4/17

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Happy match day, Lion folk. Tonight Orlando City takes on Puerto Rico in friendly action at Orlando City Stadium for a great cause — to raise funds for the island nation’s recovery from getting rocked by not one but two hurricanes this season. It’s also your last chance to see Kaká in Orlando City colors, so go on out to the purple palace tonight and have a look. (If you can’t make it, our Scott Carnevale will be on hand to live tweet the match and write up a recap afterwards.)

It’s a crazy time right now. Some of the teams in our league are still playing but we’ve been in off-season mode for a couple weeks now. We should start hearing soon about some contract statuses for Orlando City players but for now we know that Leo Pereira has returned to Brazil following the conclusion of his loan to the Lions. Pereira is a young guy with good feet and some upside, and — even if he didn’t set the world on fire with Orlando City — his loan to OCSC was a positive step in the partnership between the club and Atletico Paranaense.

OK, with that said, let’s get to some Lion Links.

Purple Deadpool Will Be Honored Tonight

Joseph Campo Jr. (a.k.a. “Purple Deadpool”) was taken from this Earth far too young — at just 31 years of age when he was killed in a traffic accident on Tuesday while driving on John Young Parkway, headed for work. In those 31 too-brief years, Campo endeared himself to his friends, his supporters’ group, and his community. All of that came out in this story by Orlando Sentinel writer Alicia DelGallo. But it was summarized nicely by someone who knew him best — Campo’s girlfriend Corinne Battersby.

“He can make anybody laugh, regardless of circumstance,” Battersby said. “He’s giving. People would call at 2 o’clock in the morning; he’d go fix their car. There’s just so much good that I can say about him, and it would never be enough.”

Campo will be honored by the club and The Ruckus at tonight’s friendly at Orlando City Stadium. We send our deepest condolences to Campo’s friends and family and the entire OCSC supporters’ group community.

OCSC Academy Player to Face His Club

Puerto Rico will get a boost from Alejandro Colon from the Orlando City Development Academy in tonight’s game.

The academy product said it will be strange to go up against his club but is looking forward to representing what he calls “my little island.”

No Ronaldo vs. the USMNT?

Portugal manager Fernando Santos has named his squad for two upcoming friendlies — including the Nov. 14 clash with the USMNT — and Cristiano Ronaldo’s name isn’t on it. The strikers listed for Portugal for those games include André Silva (Milan), Bruma (RB Leipzig), Éder (Lokomotiv), Gelson Martins (Sporting), Gonçalo Guedes (Valencia), and Rony Lopes (Monaco). Portugal will be the first team the U.S. will face since being eliminated from 2018 World Cup contention and the resignation of Bruce Arena.

Will Franch Get a Look in Upcoming USWNT Friendlies?

Sure, we know who you guys would like to see between the sticks for the USWNT. But Jill Ellis has made it clear she feels that Ashlyn Harris is the No. 2 behind Alyssa Naeher, at least for the time being. In the meantime, the backstop of the NWSL’s stingiest defense has been on the outside looking in. But she may be closing the gap. Adrianna Franch got the call-up for the November friendlies against Canada and it would be a good test to see if the Portland goalkeeper has what it takes to become the next great U.S. stopper.

Could Global Nations League Replace International Friendlies?

We could see new worldwide international competitions in odd-numbered years if plans for the ‘Global Nations League’ get off the ground.

The UEFA-led Global Nations League could replace many often-meaningless friendly matches, officials briefed on the project told The Associated Press.

The plan would invite all 223 members of FIFA's six continental confederations and take place every two years. The format expands on the UEFA Nations League, which kicks off next September in Europe.

Free Kicks

  • Anthony Precourt’s minion made my skin crawl with some of the things he said to Austin, TX, soccer supporters. Despite a recent lucrative jersey sponsorship deal with Acura and a stadium naming partner in Mapfre, Dave Greeley said the Columbus Crew lack sponsorship support. It’s clear that Precourt and his posse have no intention to #SaveTheCrew.
  • Detroit’s new plan to use Ford Field certainly changes things in the city’s bid to gain an MLS expansion franchise. MLS, of course, responded by reiterating that soccer-specific stadiums will be prioritized, which is probably amusingly adorbs news to fans of New York City FC and Atlanta United.
  • Paul Caligiuri has thrown his hat into the ring and will run for USSF president.
  • Here’s an interesting piece on a tattoo artist who has inked plenty of athletes, rock stars, and celebrities, including the likes of Tally Hall and Seb Hines.
  • Among those born on this date are “Oklahoma’s favorite son” Will Rogers (1879), Walter Cronkite (1916), Art Carney (1918), Everybody Loves Raymond actress Doris Roberts (1925), M*A*S*H actress Loretta Swit (1937), “Modern Day Delilah” singer Van Stephenson (1953), Dream Theater keyboardist Jordan Rudess (1956), Karate Kid actor Ralph Macchio (1961), Survivor host Jeff Probst (1961), Sean Puff Daddy, Puffy, P. Diddy, Diddy (or whatever he’s calling himself these days) Combs (1969),  Matthew McConaughey (1969), Portuguese soccer legend Luis Figo (1972), football’s Vince Wilfork (1981), and hockey’s Dustin Brown (1984).

That’s all the time I have for you this morning. Stay tuned for complete coverage of tonight’s friendly and enjoy your weekend.

Lion Links

Lion Links: 11/14/24

MLS playoff predictions, Barbra Banda and Marta earn recognition, USMNT takes on Jamaica tonight, and more.

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Dan MacDonald, The Mane Land

How’s it going, Mane Landers? I’ve been a bit under the weather this week, but it’s at least meant I’ve been able to spend more time with my cat and get some reading done when not hacking up a lung. But enough about that, let’s dive into today’s links from around the soccer world!

MLS Conference Semifinal Predictions

Former Orlando City captain Sacha Kljestan weighed in on which of the remaining eight teams will prevail in the MLS playoffs. He predicts that Atlanta United can lean on its counterattacking and Brad Guzan’s goalkeeping to beat Orlando City when the two rivals face off in Orlando on Nov. 24. A key thing to watch heading into the match is if Head Coach Oscar Pareja switches things up up top given Ramiro Enrique’s slump.

Kljestan predicts a tight match between New York City FC and the New York Red Bulls, but has NYCFC moving on. He also has both the LA Galaxy and LAFC advancing in the Western Conference, which would set up a playoff edition of El Trafico.

Pride Players Make ESPN’s Top 50

ESPN unveiled its annual list of the top 50 women’s soccer players and a pair of Orlando Pride players made the list. Forward Barbra Banda is ranked third on the list for crushing it in her first year in the NWSL, scoring 13 goals to help the Pride win the NWSL Shield. Marta, who has not been listed in the past two years, ranked 26th for turning back the clock at 38 years old and creating 46 chances for Orlando this season. Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati tops the list, with Naomi Girma in second, Caroline Graham Hansen in fourth, and Sophia Smith rounding out the top five. There are many voters for this year’s list from around the world, including Vice President of Soccer Operations and Sporting Director Haley Carter.

Steven Moreira Named Defender of the Year

The Columbus Crew’s Steven Moreira was named 2024 MLS Defender of the Year after a strong season. He made 27 appearances for the Crew this season and was a key part of his team’s success in the Concacaf Champions Cup and Leagues Cup this year. Moreira also helped out offensively with two goals and four assists and was an All-Star this year. The 30-year-old beat out Inter Miami’s Jordi Alba and Seattle Sounders center back Jackson Ragen for the award.

USMNT Takes On Jamaica Tonight

The United States Men’s National Team will play its first competitive match under Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino tonight when it takes on Jamaica in Kingston in the Concacaf Nations League. Although the U.S. may be favored in this series, playing on the road in Concacaf is always tough and Jamaica tends to keep things close against the Yanks. Tonight’s match is the first of the two-leg quarterfinals, with the two nations facing off again in St. Louis on Monday. Hopefully Pochettino can get the team firing on all cylinders as it continues to prepare for the 2026 World Cup.

Free Kicks

  • In a rollercoaster of a match, the U.S. Men’s Deaf National Team fell in a penalty shootout to Brazil in the Deaf Pan American Games. The U.S. took the lead in extra time, but Brazil battled back to tie it, winning from the spot to reach the final.

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

Lion Links: 11/13/24

Orlando City’s international call-ups, Orlando Pride playoffs preview, NWSL Awards voting opens, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. Orlando City might have to wait a week to continue its playoff journey, but the Orlando Pride do not. The Kansas City Current are coming to town this Sunday for the third meeting between these NWSL heavyweights this year, and I will be there. I hope you will make it to Inter&Co Stadium to show this Pride club how much we appreciate all they have done this season in their final home match of the season. For now, let’s get to the links.

Lions on International Duty

Several Orlando City players received call-ups for this international break, including Facundo Torres for Uruguay. Additionally, the following also got the call: David Brekalo with Slovenia, Pedro Gallese and Wilder Cartagena for Peru, Dagur Dan Thorhallsson for Iceland, and Favian Loyola for Chile’s U-20 squad. All we can hope for is they all stay healthy and in form. Orlando City’s next opponent, Atlanta United, also had several players called up.

The NWSL Playoffs Continue

The Orlando Pride will face the fourth-place Kansas City Current this weekend after decimating the Chicago Red Stars Friday. There’s been a lot of drama between these two clubs, making this an intriguing semifinal match. The other match sees the second-place Washington Spirit take on third-place NJ/NY Gotham FC. While we get to enjoy seeing the Pride continue their NWSL playoff run, many clubs are now watching from home and working on next season’s campaign.

NWSL Award Voting Open

The NWSL has opened the “fans voting round” for its 2024 end-of-season awards. There are several Pride players who were named finalists, including Barbra Banda, Marta, Emily Sams, Kylie Strom, and Anna Moorhouse. Of course, Seb Hines is up for NWSL Coach of the Year in what should be a foregone conclusion. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get out there and submit your vote here. This is your chance to make a difference for Hines and these Pride players who have given so much this season.

Pepi is Ready

The USMNT will play its first competitive match under Mauricio Pochettino against Jamaica Thursday night in the first leg of a Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal series. The U.S. doesn’t have a ton of options at forward, meaning Ricardo Pepi will likely get the start. The PSV striker said he feels he’s “ready to be the man.” It’s been years since anyone locked down the starting role up top for the USMNT. Let’s hope that Pepi is indeed ready.

Free Kicks

  • In unsurprising news, Charlotte FC’s Kristijan Kahlina was named 2024 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year. Orlando fans are all too familiar with how good Kahlina is in goal. Honestly, Khalina is a very deserving winner.
  • England’s squad will look very different this international window with eight players out due to injury, including Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer.
  • The UScpMNT match scheduled for today has been postponed due to inclement weather.
  • Coventry City has its eye on Frank Lampard as a possible replacement for Mark Robins as manager.
  • We have unfortunately seen the last of Memphis 901 FC. It is a sad day, as we’re unlikely to see such a cool name with whatever Santa Barbara comes up with.
  • We’re sad to share that FC Cincinnati’s Marco Angulo passed away as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and teammates.
  • Finally, I leave you with Ally Watt solving a Rubik’s Cube.

That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for the Pride’s playoff match against the Kansas City Current. Vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 11/12/24

Examining Orlando City’s playoff path, what to watch in the Concacaf Nations League, Lily Yohannes declares for the U.S., and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City / Jeremy Reper

Happy Tuesday, everyone! The weekend couldn’t have gone much better for Orlando’s soccer teams, as both Orlando City and the Orlando Pride advanced after their respective playoff games, with the Pride dominating Chicago and the Lions getting a late, dramatic equalizer before winning the penalty shootout. The Pride will return to action Sunday against the Kansas City Current, while the Lions have a slightly longer layoff before they take on Atlanta United. As usual, we have plenty to discuss this morning, so let’s get into the links.

Orlando City’s Playoff Path

It was a wild weekend for the MLS playoffs as far as the Eastern Conference was concerned, and a slew of upsets suddenly means that the path to the MLS Cup final in the Eastern Conference goes through Orlando. The Lions are the highest remaining seed in the East, and not only will they host Atlanta Nov. 24, but they would also host the Eastern Conference final, should they come out victorious. Oscar Pareja spoke after the game about not wanting the victory over Charlotte FC to be the end of the playoff journey, and says the team intends to chase the MLS Cup. If Orlando does make it that far, the team wouldn’t be likely to host the match, as it would require Minnesota United to come out of the Western Conference in order for the final to be held in Orlando. Stranger things have happened though.

What to Watch For With the USMNT

It seems like we just had an international break, but here we are again with two more United States Men’s National Team games on the docket. These are two important games, as the USMNT squares off against Jamaica in the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals. Besides the obvious chance to advance to the semifinals, there are plenty of other storylines to keep an eye on. With Josh Sargent and Folarin Balogun both absent due to injury, can Ricardo Pepi seize an opportunity to lay claim to the starting striker role? What sort of impacts can Brendan Aaronson and Weston McKennie have in the midst of good starts to the season for their clubs? Last, but certainly not least, is Christian Pulisic, who has had a fantastic start to the season and will have many eyes on him in the first competitive matches under Mauricio Pochettino.

Lily Yohannes Chooses the United States

The United States Women’s National Team has landed a great young talent, as Lily Yohannes announced on Monday that she has chosen to represent the U.S. over the Netherlands. While she was born in Virginia, Yohannes has lived abroad since the age of 10, making her eligible to play for either country. However, she stated that with the United States being her country of birth, as well as where her extended family lives, she decided to commit to representing Emma Hayes’ team. Yohannes made her debut for Ajax’s senior side in November of last year, and has seven goals in 40 appearances for the Dutch team.

Transfer Rumor Roundup

As always, the transfer rumor mill continues to turn, which means we have plenty of things to catch up on. We start with Major League Soccer itself, where FC Cincinnati’s Luciano Acosta has said he may have played his final game for the club. He cited frustration with falling short of silverware as a possible reason for wanting to move on, so he may change his mind once the sting has faded more. Moving to Spain, Barcelona is reportedly monitoring Eintracht Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush as an option to replace the aging Robert Lewandowski. Arsenal and Manchester United are said to be interested in Leroy Sane, and will pursue him hard if contract talks with Bayern Munich don’t progress well.

Free Kicks

  • NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman had some friendly words for the Orlando Pride.

That does it for me today. Vamos Orlando!

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