Lion Links: 6/11/18

I would normally say merry Monday morning, Mane Landers, though I’m guessing that there may be a few of you that are not feeling very merry after Saturday night. I get it, but if over the last 11 games Orlando City had gone W-W-L W-L-L-W-L-W-L-W, would you be calling for the head of Jason Kreis or would you be happy we’re above the red line? Streaks happen, and they seemingly happen to Orlando City in the best or worst possible way. Let’s get to the links.

Yoshimar Yotún Wins MVP

Orlando City midfielder and Peruvian national team starterYoshimar Yotún was named MVP for his performance in Peru’s 0-0 draw with Sweden this weekend. While away from Orlando, Yotún will be a key fixture in Peru’s squad as the team heads to Russia for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Peru’s first match of the tournament will be this Saturday against Denmark. Congrats, Yoshi!

USWNT U-17 Books Ticket to Championship

The U.S. women’s U-17 team is headed to its fourth Concacaf Championship following its 3-2 win over Haiti this weekend. It shouldn’t come as a surprise, but it is still nice to have a national team that is taking it to the competition. The future is bright for the USWNT.

Patrick Vieira Leaves NYCFC

It’s been rumored for a while now, but it seems that Patrick Vieira is leaving New York City FC for OGC Nice. The former NYCFC boss is headed to Ligue 1 posthaste. Given what Vieira has done in his time in New York, paired with what he’s done as a player, he has set himself up nicely for this move. It’s been a long time coming.

From Russia With Love

It tuns out that the Russian World Cup bid might have been tainted. I know, shocking given all we’ve learned recently. Despite evidence of widespread doping, computer hacking, and allegations of bribery, FIFA awarded the event to Russia. It might seem small to some, but it’s important to note how some within FIFA are still fighting against the corruption.

Messi to Retire?

He’s one of the best players in the world. That’s not up for debate, but Lionel Messi’s place on his national squad has been a bit more complicated. Now it seems that he is considering retiring from international play. Of course, it’s all going to depend on how Argentina does in the World Cup. I’m not sure if that’s a good thing or a bad thing.

Free Kicks

• Congrats to Ali Krieger and her new soccer complex.

• Pep Guardiola states that the allegations against Yaya Toure are baseless. We’ll have to wait and see what actually comes of the situation.

That’s going to do it for the links today. It’s always tough on the days after a loss, but here we are. Go City, go Pride!