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Lion Links: 3/6/18

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7 years ago

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Greetings, readers. I hope you all enjoyed the return of MLS and a hard-fought draw from the men in purple and gold. Considering the circumstances, that one damn near felt like a win. Here’s your daily dose of soccer-related news.

Two Lions Honored in MLS TOTW

Two members of the team that fought for a 1-1 draw with D.C. United over the weekend were included in the first edition of this season’s MLS Team of the Week. Justin Meram was named as a starter, while Lions captain Jonathan Spector made the bench. Both players were influential in rescuing a point from Saturday’s match, with Spector marshaling the back line well and providing the assist on Stefano Pinho’s equalizer, and Meram terrorizing the United defense for the entirety of the game and generally making a nuisance of himself. On the basis of this week’s performance, this probably won’t be the last time their names pop up in the TOTW. Well done to the both of them.

Sermanni Backs Leroux

Tom Sermanni believes that new signing Sydney Leroux is poised for a big first year with the Orlando Pride. Leroux adds a new threat to a Pride team already loaded with attacking talent, making the task of opposition defenses that much more difficult. Sermanni in particular thinks her pedigree and experience will be a great addition to the team:

Pride Players All Winners in Algarve Cup Round 3 Action

Alanna Kennedy and Emily van Egmond started in Australia’s 2-0 win over China in the third round of Algarve Cup group play yesterday, finishing atop Group A at 2-0-1. Despite going unbeaten in group play and edging out Portugal on the goals scored tiebreaker, the Matildas will not play in the final. Instead, they’ll meet Portugal again for third place on Wednesday. The two teams drew 0-0 on March 2 in the first meeting. Pride rookie Nadia Gomes did not see action in her side’s 2-0 win over Norway on Monday, as Portugal grabbed a share of the Group A top spot and equaled Australia’s goal difference, but failed to score enough goals to win the group.

Shelina Zadorsky started and played the full 90 for Canada in a 3-0 win over South Korea. It was a good recovery for Zadorsky and the Canadian defense to pitch two consecutive shutouts after a 3-1 loss to Sweden in the opening round. Canada finished group play 2-1-0 on six points — one behind Sweden in Group B. Canada will face Japan in the fifth-place match on Wednesday. Sweden will face the Netherlands — Group C winners — in the final, also on Wednesday.

The Pride also announced Monday that Sermanni will have everyone except the Australians back in camp by next week. The Aussies will head to the Asian Cup. The Pride also announced an updated camp roster including the names of the seven new trialists who join previously announced midfielder Bridget Callahan. The new trialists are goalkeeper Kat Elliott, midfielders Kayla Adamek, Christine Creigthon, and Julia Moore, and forwards Trudi Carter, Morgan Ferrara, and Jessica Hamrick.

Americans Impress Abroad

Aron Johannsson and Kenny Saief were the standout performers of the USMNT contingent of players plying their trade abroad. Johannsson scored the equalizer in Werder Bremen’s comeback draw away to Borussia Mönchengladbach. Saief, meanwhile, provided the assist on the game-winning goal in Anderlecht’s 3-2 win against Zulte-Waregem. Timothy Weah made his debut for Paris Saint-Germain at the tender age of 19, and, while it was only an 11-minute cameo, the achievement still deserves recognition. The nature of the Parisian club means that an extended run in the side for Weah will be challenging to say the least, but stranger things have happened.

Relationship Between MLS Teams and Their Fans

The New York Times has written a very interesting article about Major League Soccer and its official supporters’ groups. Among the subjects discussed are the #SaveTheCrew efforts, the dissolution of the Garden State Ultras, and the difficulties associated with the league trying to police and monitor supporters’ groups. The article notes that the beliefs and desires of individual supporters’ groups don’t always reflect those of the clubs they support, and recognizes that this can create a degree of tension. However, it also points out that many groups engage in fundraising for charities, community service, and philanthropy, highlighting that, regardless of any tension that may be present, both sides still have their hearts in the right place.

Investigation Opened Into Astori Death

It was announced Monday that an official investigation will be launched regarding the sudden death of Fiorentina captain Davide Astori. Astori passed away on Sunday morning, and, with his funeral set for this Thursday, an investigation has been opened so that an autopsy may be completed before he is laid to rest. UEFA has also confirmed that a minute’s silence will be held ahead of this week’s round of Champions League games to honor the late player’s memory. As always in these situations, thoughts and prayers from everyone here at TML go out to those affected by Astori’s passing.

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  • Orlando City youth soccer welcomed a familiar face to the coaching staff, in the form of former Lions’ center back Seb Hines.

Introducing the newest member to our coaching staff, Seb Hines. Seb will be working with the OCYS junior boys teams.

Welcome Seb!

Posted by Orlando City Youth Soccer on Monday, March 5, 2018

  • Depending on your view of such things, you may or may not find this to be an interesting stat. Personally, I took note of the part about the goal struggles for the recent champions.

If you didn’t make it to last week’s game, never fear: the boys are back in action against Minnesota United this Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET. Unfortunately, I live roughly 900 miles away and am a broke college student, so, unless I win the lottery or burn my apartment down for the insurance money, I don’t think I’ll be making it to a home game anytime soon. Have a beer (or five) for me on match day so that I may live vicariously through you. Ciao.

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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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1 day ago

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April 25, 2025

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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: 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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2 days ago

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April 24, 2025

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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: 4/23/25

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

Published

3 days ago

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April 23, 2025

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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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