Lion Links: 5/8/18

Happy Tuesday, Mane Landers. It was a good week for Orlando soccer with wins for both the Lions and Pride. There was lots to like in the Lions’ performance, but I think most of you will agree with me when I say I would really like to see the defensive side of things begin to come together. There’s lots to talk about, so let’s get into those links.

Lions Included in MLS Team of the Week

The streak continues as once again there are Orlando City players included in the MLS Team of the Week. The current edition sees Yoshimar Yotún named in the starting XI with Sacha Kljestan included on the bench. Yotún was rightfully included following his goal and assist performance in the team’s 3-1 win over Real Salt Lake on Sunday. Kljestan’s assist on Dom Dwyer’s opening goal justified his inclusion and helped continue the run of multiple Orlando City players making the Team of the Week. This is also Yoshi’s second consecutive week of being in the team’s starting XI.

OCSC Continues Power Rankings Climb

Orlando City has moved up one spot in ESPN’s weekly MLS power rankings. The Lions now sit at the sixth spot following the weekend’s action. Meanwhile, Atlanta United still holds the top spot with New York Red Bulls and Sporting Kansas City rounding out the top three. Interestingly enough Toronto FC jumped a hefty four places to the fifth spot simply by beating the Philadelphia Union, who currently sit ninth in the East. I’m not sure how one win over a sub-par team justifies that ranking, but oh well, what do I know?

Chioma Ubogagu Nominated for Goal of the Week

Orlando Pride forward Chioma Ubogagu has been nominated for the NWSL Goal of the Week for her first half tally in the Pride’s 2-0 victory over the Seattle Reign. This strike was Chi’s third of the young season and helped settle the Pride on their way to their second win of the year. Chi actually started the move with an interception at midfield and did well to drive into the space in front of her before finishing coolly into the side netting following a neat layoff from Sydney Leroux. Make sure you go vote for Chi’s goal and don’t forget that the Pride have another Wednesday game this week against Utah Royals.

Americans Abroad Roundup

Stars and Stripes FC has your weekly roundup of how Americans fared overseas. Some of the highlights include Matt Miazga scoring and being named in the Eredivisie Team of the Week, Romain Gall scoring his fourth goal in three games in the Swedish league, and Weston McKennie helping Schalke clinch second place in the Bundesliga. With many leagues coming to an end and on-loan players needing to impress their parent clubs, there’s no better time to find a good run of form.

Free Kicks

• Philadelphia Union legend Sebastien Le Toux has announced his retirement and will sign a ceremonial one-day contract to retire with the club.

Orlando City partner SIMA Àguilas will face Jacksonville Armada in the U.S. Open Cup tomorrow.

I’d say Justin Meram is due for a goal, wouldn’t you?

That’s all I have for today. Once again, a reminder that the Pride have a Wednesday game against Utah Royals tomorrow. As for OCSC, another Sunday game against Atlanta United beckons, a fixture that a lot of Orlando fans probably have circled on their calendars. It’s a big one, so get your butts to the stadium. Ciao.