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Lion Links: 11/17/17

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Welcome to another Friday, everyone. It’s been a very interesting week, and if you have been keeping up with everything with us at The Mane Land, you would know exactly what I am referring to. If not, well, you should be ashamed of yourself, because we have been tirelessly scrounging the interwebs to bring you the freshest of banter, the newest of gossip, and keeping you on top of everything that is the world of domestic and international soccer. So let’s dive in and see what is on the reading menu today.

Fuerza Puerto Rico Friendly Donation

The tally is finally in folks. With 100% of the net proceeds being donated, the Fuerza Puerto Friendly match at Orlando City Stadium raised $327,530 for the United for Puerto Rico Fund. It just goes to show you what can happen when this community gets together to help support each other and a great cause.

Orlando City sleeping on the Street

It is the time of year when the weather is changing, it is getting darker by the day, and the holidays are right on top of us. Some people in our area are going to have a much harder time getting into the holiday spirit, and some will be even more pressed to get a simple meal, and even some will be searching for a simple safe place to sleep at night. A team from Orlando City is planning on sleeping on the street for one night to help raise awareness and money to help battle youth homelessness.

Porter, Timbers Parting Ways

In shocking news that broke late last night, Caleb Porter is reportedly out as head coach of the Portland Timbers. Paul Tenorio broke the news around 10:30 p.m. ET last night. Porter has won an MLS Cup and led Portland to two first-place finishes in Major League Soccer’s Western Conference in his time with the Timbers. It’s unlikely that Porter will be out of work for long.

Yoshi Punched his Ticket; What Else is Up with the World Cup?

As noted yesterday morning, the Lions’ very own Yoshimar Yotun is going to World Cup Russia 2018. All 32 teams are now set, so now we are in a holding pattern until June 14, 2018. There is a lot that still has to happen from today until the first whistle blows, and fan guides are starting to pop up all over the place. The pots have been filled, and it is just a matter of time before the groups are pulled and the bracket challenges can begin. I am just hoping that Peru can avoid one of the “Groups of Death,” get a decent draw, and work its way deep into the tournament.

North Carolina FC Joins USL for 2018

In yet another blow to what seems to be a daily sucker punch to the survivability of the NASL, it has been announced that North Carolina FC will join the USL beginning next season. NCFC, formerly the Carolina Railhawks, announced the move away from the NASL to the USL, bringing the number of new teams in 2018 to five. The USL has also already confirmed three more teams coming into the league in 2019. What does this mean for the NASL?

NWSL headed to Salt Lake

In even more league news, It has been announced that the “we will insert a name here shortly” will be joining the NWSL in 2018, playing in Rio Tinto Stadium. The new women’s team is being launched by Real Salt Lake, and they promise there is plenty more information to come in the next few weeks, namely a name.

Tim Melia Wins MLS Goalkeeper of the Year

Congratulations to Tim Melia of Sporting Kansas City after being named the 2017 MLS Allstate Goalkeeper of the Year (but did he get a safe driver discount?). Tim ran away with the overall vote with just over 50% of the average vote. Andre Blake of the Philadelphia Union was runner-up, and Stefan Frei of the Seattle Sounders was third in voting. Sporting has now swept the defensive awards combining this with Ike Opara being named 2017 MLS Defender of the Year.

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  • We knew in August that Brianna Scurry was elected to the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame (becoming the first black female to be so honored), but now we know that the ceremony will take place in Orlando on Feb. 10.

  • MLS listed its top 10 acquisitions of 2107. No players from Atlanta or Minnesota were chosen, understandably (because their entire rosters were 2017 acquisitions), but we also question the lack of seeing Jonathan Spector or Yoshimar Yotun on this list.
  • In even more interesting, yet completely random, World Cup news, here is the breakdown of teams by kit manufacturer. I may need an Errea designed kit before June!
  • In 2018, the USMNT will be in a new tournament, the Nations League. What is that, you say, and what does it mean for the U.S.? It is a new tournament for the 41 countries that fall within CONCACAF, with three divisions based on “sporting level,” some level of promotion and relegation, and will serve as a way to qualify for the CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament.
  • Rumors abound about Cristiano Ronaldo wanting out of Real Madrid. The 2017 Ballon d’Or winner is apparently upset because the club pursued a player that likes to operate in the wide left, right where CR7 plays now.

That is what I found to serve you today folks. As always, enjoy these delicious morsels of info on your fine Friday. And keep Mason Stajduhar in your thoughts. Cancer sucks, and I say that as someone who currently has a family member battling cancer, and knowing that you are not alone in the battle is key. Have a great weekend, everybody!

Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/25/25

Orlando City gets ready for Atlanta United, Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira promoted, NWSL MVP candidates, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Happy Friday! Today starts three straight days of Orlando soccer to enjoy, so make sure to plan your weekend accordingly. It was a fairly fast week for me, and I was able to read three books somehow. Before we dive into today’s links, let’s all wish a very happy 21st birthday to Orlando City winger Nicolas Rodriguez!

Orlando City Gets Ready for Rivalry Match

The Lions are back in action Saturday night against rival Atlanta United in what should be one of the more interesting matchups of the weekend. Both teams are looking for answers on offense heading into this match, as Orlando is coming off of three straight scoreless draws and Atlanta hasn’t won since March. Taking on a rival at home could be just what’s needed for the Lions to jumpstart their attack and return to the form they had earlier this season. Head Coach Oscar Pareja spoke on how it’s an important game to win for Orlando, as well as how the offense needs to exercise some calmness to finish its chances.

Orlando City Promotes Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira

Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira were both promoted by Orlando City, with Moreira taking over as the club’s general manager and sporting director and Muzzi becoming senior advisor to ownership, global soccer ventures. It’s a natural step up for Moreira, who joined the club in 2018 and has helped build a competitive roster that’s made the playoffs for the past five seasons. Muzzi’s new role is a bit of a mouthful, but he’ll be taking on an advisory role focused on the growth of the club while working closely with ownership.

“I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as Orlando City Soccer Club’s EVP of Soccer Operations and General Manager for seven seasons, and I am excited to continue my journey with the club in this new role,” said Luiz Muzzi. “I look forward to working alongside the Wilf family and the leadership team to help shape the future of the club and its continued success, both on and off the field, and I know Orlando City’s Soccer Operations will be in great hands under Ricardo’s leadership.”

Orlando Pride Players in the NWSL MVP Hunt

Now that we’re over a month into the NWSL season, ESPN‘s Jeff Kassouf highlighted the league’s early MVP candidates, and there are a couple of familiar faces in his rankings. Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda is predictably in the mix in sixth on the list, as she has three goals and an assist to her name so far. But a surprise inclusion is midfielder Haley McCutcheon, who has impressed on both sides of the ball to earn ninth place in the rankings. While I think the MVP race will ultimately be between scorers like Banda, Temwa Chawinga, Ashley Hatch, and Debinha, it’s pretty great to see McCutcheon receive deserved praise for her performance this year.

MLS Transfer News Roundup

The transfer deadline may be over for MLS clubs, but deals that crossed the finish line are still coming in. The Columbus Crew added yet another forward by sending up to $1.2 million to the Houston Dynamo in exchange for Aliyu Ibrahim. The 23-year-old will maintain his U22 Initiative Player status in Columbus and recorded 12 goals and nine assists across 90 appearances for Houston. LAFC signed 26-year-old midfielder Ryan Raposo, who spent the past five seasons with the Vancouver Whitecaps and was a free agent this year. St. Louis City also made things official with Simon Becher by making his loan move a permanent one so that he stays with the club.

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That’s all I have for you this time around. Mother’s Day is less than a month away, just as a warning. If the mothers in your life like romance books and you’re looking for a gift, I can’t recommend The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center enough. Have a great Friday!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/24/25

Orlando Pride prepare for Angel City FC, MLS deadline day deals, OCB slips in power rankings, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

How’s it going, Mane Landers? It’s been a few days since a rough weekend for Orlando City and the Orlando Pride. Time heals all wounds, but let’s also hope it heals offenses considering both teams were shut out. Let’s go ahead and manifest some good officiating this weekend as well while we’re at it. That might be a tall order, but I’m feeling optimistic. Let’s get to the links!

Orlando Pride Prepare for Angel City FC

The Orlando Pride will look to bounce back when they welcome Angel City FC to the City Beautiful for a home game Friday night. Orlando lost its first game of the year and first home game since 2023 last week against the Washington Spirit, falling 1-0. Angel City is also coming off of its first loss of the season, falling 4-0 at home to NJ/NY Gotham FC at home. Pride defender Kerry Abello spoke on how the Pride will need to create better chances compared to last week as they prepare to right the ship with a home victory.

Orlando City B Drops a Spot in Power Rankings

Although OCB fell from third to fourth in the latest MLS NEXT Pro power rankings, the Young Lions are solidly in the top five teams in the league. OCB was on a bye last weekend, so not moving too much in the rankings can be expected. While the Young Lions fell 3-2 in their last league game against Inter Miami II, spirits are likely high with the team due to the Orlando City U-18 team’s success in the Generation Adidas Cup. Let’s hope the Young Lions can ride that momentum into Sunday night’s match with New York Red Bulls II.

MLS Deadline Day Transfer News

The MLS transfer deadline day has come and gone and there were some notable moves to catch up on. Real Salt Lake’s deal with Boavista for forward Robert Bozenik reportedly collapsed, but the club still added striker William Agada from Sporting Kansas City in exchange for $500,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money and another $350,000 in GAM if he re-signs. Inter Miami traded winger Robert Taylor to Austin FC in exchange for up to $750,000 in GAM, with only $50,000 of that being conditional. Atlanta United traded winger Xande Silva to St. Louis City SC for up to $250,000 in GAM as well.

The Houston Dynamo also have a new forward, signing Toyosi Olusanya from Scottish club St. Mirren. The New England Revolution traded Noel Buck to the San Jose Earthquakes for up to $650,000 in cold, hard cash, reuniting the 20-year-old with Bruce Arena. Frankie Amaya is back in MLS, joining LAFC on loan from Toluca. As of this writing, Minnesota United are reportedly in hot pursuit of Miami’s Julian Gressel.

Sources: Minnesota United in advanced talks to acquire Julian Gressel from Inter Miami.Nothing done yet. Still details to figure out. Optimism something gets done, but not there yet.

Tom Bogert (@tombogert.bsky.social) 2025-04-24T00:25:26.971Z

Keeping Up With the Americans Abroad

The race for a place in the English Premier League is heating up in the EFL Championship and Americans are right in the thick of it. Brenden Aaronson and Leeds United have already secured promotion, along with Burnley. Forward Haji Wright has scored 12 goals for Coventry City this season, and his club currently holds the final playoff spot. Midfielder Aidan Morris and Middlesbrough are three points behind, while former Lion Daryl Dike and West Brom will need to win their remaining two matches for a shot at sneaking in.

In Italy, Christian Pulisic started in AC Milan’s 3-0 victory over rival Inter to book a spot in the Italian Cup final on May 14. Fellow American Yunus Musah was an unused substitute. Catarina Macario scored twice and Mia Fishel added a goal as well in Chelsea’s 4-0 win against Crystal Palace, helping their team get ever closer to winning its sixth straight Women’s Super League title.

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That’s it for today’s links! Make sure to stay hydrated out there as we get closer and closer to summer. Have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week.

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/23/25

The Orlando Pride drop, OCSC Academy awards, USMNT characters, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City B / Mark Thor

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. This weekend we have the most convenient schedule, with the Orlando Pride playing Friday night, Orlando City on Saturday night, and Orlando City B on Sunday night. It’s nice knowing what I’ll be doing each night. Now, I just need all three teams to get back on the winning side of things. Until then, let’s get to the links.

Bad Pride, Good Pride

It might have been the dumbest way to lose a match against the Washington Spirit, but — actually nevermind, there is no “but” about it. We can, however, decide to move forward rather than dwell on it after today. Unsurprisingly, the Pride dropped in the all-knowing power rankings. All for XI only dropped the Pride one spot to No. 2 since everyone has a bad day now and again. The CBS power ranking dropped the team to No. 3. That was the “bad.” The “good” is that we can revisit the puppies that showed up at Inter&Co Stadium. The loss still hurts, but it’s hard to stay mad after looking at the puppies.

The (OCSC) Academy Awards

Assuming you read Lion Links on Monday morning (or listened to The Mane Land PawedCast this week) you know that the Orlando City SC Academy U-18 team won the Generation Adidas Cup. Now we know that three of the very young Lions — Gustavo Caraballo, Jackson Platts, and Justin Ellis — were named to the U18 Best XI. Additionally, Caraballo and Ellis earned MVP and Top Scorer awards, respectively. It was truly the bright spot of an otherwise forgettable weekend.

Pochettino Prepares

The USMNT did not do well in the Concacaf Nations League, falling to Panama and then Canada in the third place match. Now, U.S. Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino has to prepare the team for the Gold Cup. Pochettino said that he needs the “right characters” on the squad, whether they are the most talented or not. He also spoke of the need for the players to fight for the badge and the flag. Former USMNT coach Bruce Arena said Pochettino may not be the right man for the job because he’s not an American. The USMNT’s next matches are friendlies against Turkiye and Switzerland on June 7 and June 10, respectively.

MLS Transfer News

The Columbus Crew are making moves. The club received $250,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) from the Houston Dynamo in exchange for a 2025 international roster slot. The club then sent DeJuan Jones to the San Jose Earthquakes for $425,000 in GAM and a 2025 international roster slot. Elsewhere, Sporting Kansas City acquired forward Santiago Muñoz on loan from Liga MX side Santos Laguna.

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That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for the full slate of matches coming up.

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