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Lion Links: 12/16/17

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7 years ago

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Happy Saturday to you, readers of our website. I hope that you’ve either seen the new Star Wars movie or that no one in your life spoils it for you. I won’t spoil it for you but I can tell you I enjoyed it immensely. Please don’t spoil anything in the comments section, as that’s just not cool.

While you wait for the theater to open so you can see Star Wars: The Last Jedi (or see it again), you can pick up one of our cool new Soccer Capital of the South t-shirts. Otherwise, here are some piping hot Lion Links for your enjoyment.

Kaká to Announce Future Plans on Sunday

Former Orlando City captain Kaká will reveal what the next chapter of his life will look like in an interview that will air on Sunday.

(Translated)

With proposals to be a player or manager of Sao Paulo and Milan, precisely the clubs he most shone, the player who played three World Cups spoke about his past and his future exactly a decade after receiving the award from Pele. Do not miss out on this Sunday at Esporte Espetacular .

I don’t know about you but I am very intrigued to know what’s next for the Brazilian.

Orlando City Passes in Re-Entry Draft Stage 1

The Lions noped out of the first phase of the MLS Re-Entry Draft on Friday, which doesn’t mean that they won’t pick someone up next Thursday in Stage 2. Players chosen in the second phase can have their contracts renegotiated, so a better deal for the club can be struck. Only two players were selected, with Colorado grabbing Mike Grella — who might have been a good pick-up for Orlando — but then dealing the former Red Bull to Columbus in exchange for a second-round pick. That’s a good bit of business for the Rapids, in my opinion. The other player chosen was Tyrone Mears from Seattle by Minnesota United.

Orlando Pride Remove Official SG Designation from Crown

I’m not going to pretend to have all the details on this one. I’ve exchanged messages with several parties and there are various versions and a lot of second-party hearsay, so, rather than get into the details at this time, let’s just say that the Orlando Pride have removed official supporters group recognition from the Crown following a recent meeting. Here is what the Crown said about it publicly.

The Crown did a generally good job of supporting the team in 2016 and 2017, I think, and so hopefully they can pull together, fix whatever needs fixing, and get back to lifting up the Pride in 2018.

Pulis Signs ex-OCB Forward Albert Dikwa

Montverde Academy product Albert Dikwa showed flashes of skill as a 19-year-old with Orlando City B in 2017 but he was surprisingly part of the USL side’s postseason purge. But we know what Anthony Pulis thinks of him because the new Saint Louis FC skipper has signed the young Cameroonian. Dikwa scored three goals and added two assists in 22 games (10 starts) in 2017 with OCB, but tailed off badly toward the end of the year. Hopefully he’ll find his form in St. Louis, where he’ll be teammates again with Austin Martz.

Two Former Lions Have Teams for 2018

Speaking of USL Lions, two more former Orlando City players from the pre-MLS days found jobs this week. Veteran midfielder Austin da Luz re-signed with North Carolina FC. Da Luz, who played with Orlando City in 2014, has scored 14 goals with the club in more than 100 games and 9,000 minutes played. Meanwhile, midfielder Christian Duke, who helped Orlando City SC win a USL championship in 2013, has left Swope Park Rangers for another OSCS — Orange County SC. Duke was Swope Park’s captain and played every game the last two seasons with the club but now he’ll start fresh in California.

USWNT Ranked No. 1 to Close 2017

The final FIFA rankings came out and the United States will end the calendar year ranked No. 1 in the world. While the U.S. men may have had a disappointing 2017, the women’s team continues to more or less stay at the top of the pack despite a few friendly tournament results that didn’t go their way. Also, the rest of the world continues to make strides at reaching the USWNT’s level — chiefly the next several teams in the rankings: Germany, England, Australia, Canada, and France. Orlando Pride stars Steph Catley and Alanna Kennedy have elevated the Aussies to the No. 4 spot after an impressive year, while Marta, Monica, and Camila have helped Brazil to a No. 8 ranking.

Free Kicks

  • Sporting Kansas City signed 25-year-old Frenchman Yohan Croizet to a DP contract and no, that doesn’t mean the Lions are sitting on their hands, doing nothing, so just stop. Patience, as they say, is a virtue.
  • I really like the way Minnesota United is going to immortalize their inaugural supporters. To be honest, I expected Orlando City to go big with Society XXI in some fashion similar to this, but in the end I was underwhelmed. Here’s MNUFC’s way:

Sculpture that will stand at Allianz Field and recognize the contributions of the club’s Itasca Society members. Limited to 11,842 fans — one for every lake in Minnesota — the society is made up of season ticket holders who supported the club during its inaugural MLS season. pic.twitter.com/taxPI9MJRZ

— Minnesota United FC (@MNUFC) December 15, 2017

  • Defender Drew Moor re-signed with Cup champion Toronto FC.
  • Among those born on this date were a lot of creative folks, like Ludwig van Beethoven (1770), Jane Austen (1775), Noel Coward (1899), Arthur C. Clarke (1917), Philip K. Dick (1928) — seriously, if you don’t know those last two, hit Wikipedia and enjoy the rabbit hole you’re about to go down — Abba’s Benny Andersson (1946), ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons (1949), comedian Bill Hicks (1961), William “The Refrigerator” Perry (1962), and Jessica Jones actress Krysten Ritter (1981). You may be wondering why The Fridge is creative, but hey, he was a pro wrestler for a bit, too.

That’s all my time this morning. Enjoy your weekend, everyone!

I leave you with this goal from Orlando City’s Alejandro Colon at the Winter Showcase, which somehow finished second in the Twitter voting held by the USSF Development Academy.

So many 🔥 goals at the Boys’ #WinterShowcase, we can’t just pick one!

It’s time for YOU to decide who scored the goal of the tournament!

First nominee: @OCYouthSoccer‘s Alejandro Colon with the 🌀 & the 🚀! pic.twitter.com/0zywSizFLH

— Development Academy (@ussoccer_acad) December 14, 2017

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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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13 minutes 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

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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1 day 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.

Free Kicks

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.

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2 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.

Free Kicks

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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