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Lion Links: 8/11/18

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8 years ago

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Happy Orlando Pride match day, everyone. Your Pride face a huge test today when the Portland Thorns visit Orlando City Stadium at 7:30 p.m. The Pride got their first ever win against the Thorns earlier this season away at Portland but they’ll need another to creep a little bit closer to a 2018 NWSL playoff spot. A draw or a loss tonight by Orlando opens the door for the Thorns as well as the Chicago Red Stars and Utah Royals to jump ahead in the race.

The Lions will fly to D.C. today to take on Wayne Rooney and United in the club’s first trip ever to Audi Field. It’ll be another shorthanded squad as Yoshimar Yotún will sit out his red card suspension (plus another game — more on that below) and Sacha Kljestan didn’t train all week after sustaining an ankle injury on a rough challenge from Brandon Bye last weekend. Orlando is still without Jonathan Spector and Lamine Sané but could see the return of Uri Rosell from a hamstring issue.

With a full slate of soccer ahead this weekend, including the return of the Premier League, let’s start linking.

Lions Reportedly Closing on Carlos Ascues

Orlando City had a quiet summer transfer window but we’ve been hearing rumblings for the last few days about some post-window movement and that appears to be happening. Peruvian international center back/defensive midfielder Carlos Ascues has left Alianza Lima and the 2017 champions wished Ascues well with new club Orlando City on Instagram yesterday. ProSoccerUSA’s Jordan Culver reported that his sources confirmed the two clubs had agreed to terms. The window may be closed but it’s possible a deal in principle was reported to the league prior to the deadline or else the player must essentially be a free agent signing. The big issue now is whether Lamine Sané goes on injured reserve to free up an international slot.

Yotún Suspended Additional Match

Look, at this point we know what’s coming. Orlando City will get the maximum penalty MLS can hand out for any infraction. Such was the case with Yoshimar Yotún’s red card against New England. The MLS Disciplinary Committee has extended Yoshi’s suspension to include the match Aug. 24 against Atlanta United and has fined both Orlando City and Head Coach James O’Connor for violating the league’s mass confrontation policy.

This, however, is a perfectly reasonable soccer play and need not be punished, according to the league.

Alternative angle of the Josef Martinez Headbutt. from
MLS

There is absolutely no truth to the rumor that Don Garber will purchase an island solely funded by fines paid by Orlando City. I like all kinds of music, including disco, but DisCo sucks.

Orlando City’s Technology Investment Making a Difference

You never know where Orlando City news will turn up, including on tech outlets. InsideBigData.com ran this piece on how the club we follow is winning on the business side through the LionNation app. The three ways OCSC’s use of the app benefits the club are by providing exclusive content that drives adoption (read: subscribers), creating opportunities for potential sponsors to learn more about the club’s customers, and creating additional ways to get fans to the stadium. It’s an interesting read, and although the app sometimes can be challenging for users, it’s been a successful endeavor for the club.

Tony Rocha’s Versatility Helps Lions in Multiple Ways

Perhaps no one’s stock with Orlando City has risen as much this season as Tony Rocha’s. It’s difficult to even say what position he plays because he’s lined up almost everywhere. Rocha cut his teeth as a professional as a defensive midfielder but this season he’s played his collegiate position of center back as well as left back and at times he’s stood out as one of the team’s better players. James O’Connor has enjoyed Rocha’s flexibility and it’s something he’s cultivating among his players.

“It makes it very hard for the opposition because you never quite sure where that player’s going to end up on the field. We’re pretty intentional with trying to create players like that. They can do a lot, whether it’s in defense or attack and they can play multiple positions.

“I think that gives a little more flexibility, whether it’s a formation or whatever it is, an attacking play or a defensive play, it gives you the flexibility to be able to cause the opposition some problems.”

We’ve seen the same thing lately with the way O’Connor has used Mohamed El-Munir and Yoshimar Yotún as attacking midfielders. After watching a pregame crossbar challenge last weekend, I look forward to seeing backup striker Joe Bendik.

Chicago Fire Suspend Supporters, Coverage Boycotted by HTIOT

A long season in Chicago for the Fire took a turn for the worse this week. The club banned supporters group activities for tonight’s match against the New York Red Bulls and revoked the tickets of 21 season ticket holders after members of the Section 8 independent supporters group participated in a peaceful protest on July 21 by occupying Section 101. That section was formerly used by the Sector Latino supporters group but that entire section of the stadium was closed starting June 9 for persistent acts of violence. Even ticket holders in that section who weren’t at the game and aren’t even in Sector Latino had their tickets canceled. The club closed off the section using chains.

In response to the latest SG ban, SB Nation’s Chicago Fire blog, Hot Time in Old Town, has decided to boycott coverage of tonight’s match in solidarity with their fellow Fire fans. Chicago’s tactics seem a bit heavy handed to an outsider like me, particularly when you consider fans not present for an incident were lumped in with anyone who violated the fan code of conduct. Of course, our own Orlando City is no stranger to fan discipline after banning individuals for participating in throwing objects onto the field back on May 13. Suspending or banning fans is a serious action and it’s a tough balancing act for a club because those are your customers. In OCSC’s case, a strong reaction was necessary to avoid incidents like this but at least they tried to identify specific individuals involved rather than punish an entire section.

LAFC, Timbers Not BFFs Follwing Racial Slur Investigation

The investigation into Adama Diomande’s claim of a racial slur has been completed by the U.S. Open Cup Adjudication and Discipline Panel, and no evidence was found to warrant any punitive action. The alleged incident took place in LAFC’s quarterfinal match against the Portland Timbers and has resulted in the two teams going after each other a bit. Here’s what the panel found:

“there was insufficient evidence to conclude that a racial epithet was used but as a matter of principle, the Panel condemned all forms of racial abuse, stating the use of a racial epithet has no place on or off the soccer field.”

The matter likely came down to one player’s word against another’s, so it’s a tough charge to prove. Meanwhile the two teams got a little heated in the wake of the investigation, with each team issuing a pointed public statement. First, Portland’s statement reads like a “how dare he insinuate such poppycock!” on Diomande in the final paragraph.

Predictably, LAFC didn’t like the way Portland worded that final paragraph and responded with its own statement, including a shot back at the Timbers.

We are disappointed that the Portland Timbers issued a statement that was dismissive of our player and the investigation by concluding it “simply did not happen”. We stand by Adama Diomande and his courageous public statement.

No doubt things could get spicy the next time these teams meet and it’s doubtful they’ll be besties anytime soon.

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That’s all my time for this morning. I’ll be back later with coverage of the Pride against the Thorns after I pay an undisclosed fine to MLS. Enjoy your Saturday!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/21/26

Takeaways from MLS matchday eight, USWNT stock watch, transfer rumor roundup, and more.

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2 hours ago

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April 21, 2026

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Image of Ignacio Gomez making his MLS debut with Orlando City vs. Houston.
Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Good morning, everyone. It was a frustrating weekend for Orlando’s soccer teams, as Orlando City lost a close game to the Houston Dynamo, and Orlando City B blew a two-goal lead against Carolina Core FC, and had to settle for the two points that come with a shootout victory after a draw. Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on your viewpoint), OCSC will have a chance to get right back on the horse when Charlotte FC comes to town on Wednesday. We’ve got lots to talk about this morning, so let’s have a look at the links.

MLS Matchday Eight Takeaways

Major League Soccer’s eighth round of matches is in the books, and there are plenty of talking points to go over. The San Jose Earthquakes ended the weekend on an emphatic note by dismantling LAFC 4-1 on the road, adding to an impressive list of scalps that also includes the Vancouver Whitecaps and San Diego FC. They’re tied with Vancouver atop the Western Conference and continue to look like one of the league’s best teams. Meanwhile, Charlotte FC, Orlando City’s next opponent, kept things organized in a 4-4-2 block and scored from two of its three shots on goal to take down NYCFC 2-1. That result puts the club in third place in the Eastern Conference.

USWNT Stock Watch

The United States Women’s National Team wrapped up its three game slate against Japan over the weekend, so let’s check in on how the matches affected the standing of several players. Lindsey Heaps was name-dropped by Emma Hayes as having had a great run of three matches, while 20-year-old Claire Hutton wore the captain’s armband during the series and looked far more poised and ready than one would expect given her age. At the opposite end of the spectrum, winger Emma Sears struggled to make an impact in the final third, and while her speed makes her a tempting option to have in the squad, the depth at her position means she’s always going to face a battle for a place.

Transfer Rumor Roundup

The summer transfer window will be here before we know it, and that means the rumors are already flying thick and fast. We begin with Arsenal, which is said to be interested in signing Julian Alvarez this summer, but will likely face competition from Barcelona. Speaking of Barcelona, club president Joan Laporta has reportedly held talks with Robert Lewandowski about extending his stay with the team, while the Chicago Fire also interested and reportedly having submitted a bid to the striker’s representatives. Liverpool is said to be ready to spend in excess of  €100 million to sign Red Bull Leipzig forward Yan Diomande as a replacement for the outgoing Mohamed Salah. Finally, center backs Hiroki Ito and Min-Jae-Kim could both reportedly leave Bayern Munich this summer if interested teams are willing to meet the German club’s valuations of them.

Jonathan Klinsmann Suffers Broken Neck

American goalkeeper Jonathan Klinsmann suffered a broken neck while playing for Serie B side Cesena on Saturday. The son of former United States Men’s National Team manager Jurgen Klinsmann, the shot stopper was stretchered off the field after colliding with a Palermo player and was diagnosed with a fractured first cervical vertebra after being taken to the hospital. Klinsmann confirmed on social media that his season is over, which will leave him unavailable for Cesena’s promotion push. The team is currently eighth in the second division, which is the final playoff promotion spot.

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That’s all I’ve got for you this morning. Vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/20/26

Lions fall to Houston Dynamo, OCB draws Carolina Core, Pride players on international duty, and more.

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1 day ago

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April 20, 2026

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Image of the starting XI from OCB's home match against Carolina Core FC.
Image courtesy of Orlando City B / Justin Glatt

Hello, Mane Landers! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I’ve been staying busy at work. Let’s wish a happy belated birthday to Orlando City defender Iago, who turned 21 Saturday. We’ve got plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.

Lions Lose to Houston Dynamo at Home

Orlando City fell 1-0 to the Houston Dynamo Saturday at Inter&Co Stadium. After a scoreless first half, Hector Herrera’s goal in the second half was enough for the visitors to walk out of Orlando with a win on the road. Despite conceding one goal, the Lions put up a better defensive performance, but the attack was hardly a threat and Orlando couldn’t score a late equalizer. With that result, Orlando City drops to last in the MLS table with four points through eight matches. It will be another busy week for the Lions, taking on Charlotte FC Wednesday at home before traveling to face D.C. United Saturday at Audi Field.

Orlando City Hires Sebastian Setti as Interim Assistant Coach

Orlando City announced Friday that the club has hired Sebastian Setti as interim assistant coach, adding to Martin Perelman’s interim technical staff. Setti was previously an assistant coach with Club Necaxa in Liga MX in 2025. He was also an assistant coach with K.M.S.K. Deinze in Belgium in 2024 and with CF Montreal in 2023, and he led CD Laudio in Spain from 2018 to 2021.

OCB Wins Penalty Shootout After 2-2 Draw vs. Carolina Core

Orlando City B drew Carolina Core 2-2 at Osceola County Stadium Sunday after throwing away a 2-0 lead in the second half. Gustavo Caraballo converted a penalty kick to give the Young Lions the early lead in the first half. Pedro Leao added a goal to make it 2-0 just before halftime. However, in the second half, Carolina rallied and scored two goals in three minutes to tie the match, with the second coming off a mistake by goalkeeper Tristan Himes. OCB won the penalty shootout 6-5 to earn a second point. After six matches, the Young Lions are eighth in the MLS NEXT Pro Eastern Conference standings with 10 points. OCB will be on the road against Chicago Fire II Sunday at SeatGeek Stadium.

Pride Players on International Duty

Multiple Pride players were in action for their national teams over the weekend, bringing the international break to a close. Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda scored a goal for Zambia in a 1-1 draw against South Korea in a friendly. Midfielder Angelina came off the bench for Brazil in the second half in a 1-0 win over Canada, also in friendly competition. Goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse was on the bench as England beat Iceland 1-0 in a UEFA World Cup qualifying match. Forward Solai Washington started for the Reggae Girlz, as Jamaica defeated Guyana 2-0 in a 2026 Concacaf Women’s Championship qualifier match.

USWNT Bounces Back to Win Third Friendly vs. Japan

The U.S Women’s National Team rebounded from a 1-0 loss with a 3-0 win against Japan Friday at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, CO. After a scoreless first half, Naomi Girma scored the opening goal in the second half. Rose Lavelle extended the Yanks’ lead 2-0, and Kennedy Wesley scored her first international goal to put it away. The USWNT closed out the April international window by winning two of three matches against Japan.

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  • Former Lion Daryl Dike scored his first EFL Championship goal since May 2025 in the second half as West Bromwich Albion defeated Preston North End 2-0 Saturday.
  • Former OCB forward Shak Mohammed scored his first goal in Major League Soccer for Nashville SC Saturday.

That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday, and I’ll see you next time.

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Lion Links: 4/17/26

Caitlin Carducci settling in with the Orlando Pride, Seven Castain scores for U.S. U-23 team, Alex Freeman adjusting in Spain, and more.

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4 days ago

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April 17, 2026

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Justin Glatt

Happy Friday! My mood is still buoyed by Orlando City’s midweek win as we get ready for another weekend filled with soccer. The USWNT plays tonight, the Lions are in action on Saturday, and Orlando City B will wrap things up with a match against Carolina Core FC on Sunday. It should be a nice next few days and I’m looking forward to trying out a new brunch spot near me as well. Let’s get to the links!

Caitlin Carducci Builds Orlando Pride Foundation

Orlando Pride Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Caitlin Carducci has been with the team for a few months since being hired in January and is starting to settle in with the club. It’s a different role than the one she had with the Kansas City Current, as she’s making more final decisions here in Orlando. Carducci discussed her focus on building relationships with each player early on, the hiring of Mark Wilson as the club’s technical director, and how she’s creating a solid infrastructure for the club’s operations.

Seven Castain Scores Winner for U.S. U-23 Team

The United States U-23 Women’s National Team wrapped up its trio of friendlies in Spain with a 4-3 win over France. Orlando Pride forward Seven Castain came off the bench and scored the winner for the U.S. in stoppage time. Fellow Pride player Ally Lemos started the match. The U.S. went undefeated over the course of these friendlies, previously drawing against France and Denmark. The Pride had plenty of representation during these games, with Castain, Lemos, Simone Jackson, and Yolanda Thomas all in Europe during the break.

Alex Freeman Finding His Footing in Spain

Former Orlando City defender Alex Freeman, who was transferred to Villarreal earlier this year, spoke on how he aims to improve from this move to Europe.

“Football-wise, this is one of the things I need in my game. I need to take it up a notch and be more technical. It’s something that, if I had to choose a club, I would choose this club in this country because it’s somewhere where I can take my next step,” he says. “It was always the right move for me. I needed to go, not only to prove myself, because I have done that in the past, but to really test myself. I want to show that I am able to do it and be in that environment.”

Along with the language barrier, Freeman detailed how he’s adjusting to the faster pace of the game in Villarreal. The 21-year-old also talked about how sudden the transfer was, his goals this La Liga season, and the warm welcome he’s gotten so far.

USWNT Takes On Japan Tonight

The USWNT will host Japan tonight in Denver in the third match between the two this month. It will be interesting to see how the USWNT responds after losing 1-0 to Japan on Tuesday, particularly in regards to which players Head Coach Emma Hayes chooses for the starting lineup. Japan is a tough opponent that should continue to test the U.S. as both teams prepare for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

Free Kicks

  • Orlando City’s next U.S. Open Cup match will be on April 29 against the New England Revolution. The match will take place in Rhode Island at Centreville Bank Stadium, which is where the Revs just played Rhode Island FC
  • Bernardo Silva announced that he will leave Manchester City this summer after nine years with the club. It’s unclear where he will play next, but I wouldn’t be surprised if New York City FC is in the mix.
  • Barcelona filed another complaint to UEFA over the officiating in its Champions League quarterfinal against Atletico Madrid. If recent events are anything to go by, it’s going to be awkward when the confederation rules Barcelona as the victor two months after the final.
  • Amid reports that FC Cincinnati was exploring options to add Neymar this summer, the 34-year-old forward stated that he intends to see through his contract with Santos until it expires at the end of the year.
  • New Zealand forward Chris Wood exited Nottingham Forest’s Europa League quarterfinal against Porto due to a knee injury, putting his availability for the World Cup into question.
  • The Europa League semifinals are set and Forest will take on Aston Villa in an English showdown for a spot in the final. On the other side of the bracket, Freiburg will play against Braga.
  • Cristiano Ronaldo exited Al Nassr’s 1-0 win over Al Ettifaq due to stomach pains that later caused him to vomit according to his head coach.

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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