Lion Links
Lion Links: 8/15/18

Happy Wednesday, Mane Landers. We’ve got a bunch of Hump Day links to get you over to the latter part of the week, so let’s dive right in.
Pride Training Update and Playoff Outlook
Amidst a tough finish to the season, many players look to be getting some rest ahead of the playoff hopeful run.
Orlando Pride training roll call:
Sydney Leroux is out here, but is still considered day to day.
Alex Morgan, Dani Weatherholt, Chioma Ubogagu are resting.
Ashlyn Harris not feeling well and is not here.
Shelina Zadorsky is not here with an excused absence. pic.twitter.com/UZLAEBTJEh
— Jordan Culver (@JordanCulver) August 14, 2018
As for that stretch run, the club breaks down the current situation for the Pride’s hopeful second playoff appearance. In short, it won’t be easy.
PRO Continues to be a Focus in Orlando City Matches
People make mistakes. I get it. I’ve been a ref, I have many friends who are just reaching their PRO licenses. It’s tough. But the Lions once again find themselves a heavy topic of conversation thanks to refereeing mistakes, on both sides of the equation:
The decisions in question:
- Was Wayne Rooney’s tackle a foul? I don’t believe so.
- Was Luciano Acosta offside on the final goal? Honestly, super tough and we don’t get the angle here to be able to tell.
- Did Higuita deserve a send off? I think this is a no. I agree here it looks like incidental contact.
- Was Luciano Acosta offside? And did Joe Bendik deserve a send off? I think Acosta is even and again super close. As for Bendik, as a goalkeeper myself, I think that’s a red. That’s not a natural save and leaping into a player is too dangerous.
Regardless of what you think of the calls, there are five game-changing calls — really six as they don’t talk about Stefano Pinho being tripped on the Rooney play — highlighted here, and that’s just excessive. Whether it be VAR needing more angles, a clearer understanding of clear and obvious, or just better officials, Howard Webb and Co. need to clean this up.
Lions Still Pursuing Carlos Ascues
While the MLS transfer window has ended, it appears City is still trying to make a final move for Peruvian defensive midfielder Carlos Ascues:
Carlos Ascues was not signed on time due to the #MLS transfer window. Reported that Orlando City is asking for special permission from FIFA. So far it looks positive. #TransferTalk #PeruviansAbroad https://t.co/2DkmW8E5nJ
— Diego Montalvan (@DMontalvan) August 14, 2018
While a DM/CB isn't exactly what City needs in my opinion, it’s still good to see the organization working to find the right pieces as it needs to look beyond this season.
Learn Some Australian Slang with the Pride
Think you can do better than Haley Kopmeyer and Christine Nairn in translating Aussie slang? Then enjoy this fun video as resident Aussies walk us through their jargon.
USL Files to USSF for Division III League Sanctioning
The USL has officially applied for its newest league to gain Division III status under the U.S. Soccer Federation guidelines.
“This is a landmark moment not only for the United Soccer League but also soccer as a whole in North America,” said USL CEO Alec Papadakis. “Over the past several years, alongside the effort to elevate the USL to Division II, we developed the plan to launch a new, competitive and exciting professional third-division league that would further the growth of soccer across the U.S. The new league is announcing teams in ten thriving markets that exhibit a proven demand for the professional game. This is a truly national league with more markets set to join as we grow toward our target of 24 teams by 2021, the league’s third season.”
This is wildly important as USL looks to create a larger soccer pyramid with what is expected to be a league focused on smaller markets in the 150,000 to one million range.
The announcement was confirmed with 10 founding members — but only six in the article — for 2019, with the goal to add more before the season begins. Could one of those unnamed teams be the resurgence of OCB? GM Niki Budalic is on record saying the club is looking at a DIII league, but nothing has been confirmed. Stay tuned for news on this as teams are expected to be announced soon.
Free Kicks
- A really great move by club operations.
Now available at Orlando City Stadium first aid stations:
Sensory kits for individuals with autism and other special needs. pic.twitter.com/o14xmOI5EG
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) August 14, 2018
- Despite MLS interest, it appears USMNT center back Geoff Cameron is set for another European league.
- The U.S. U-20 MNT draw for Concacaf championships has been announced.
- Need to keep track of all the Americans abroad? Here’s a helpful picture of all the action going down overseas.
- A UK blogger for Orlando City speculates if fitness really is an issue.
- Equalizer Soccer’s Jeff Kassouf points out — despite the U-20s’ historic fail — that the world had already caught up to the U.S. on the women’s youth side.
- As the business nerd here, this new interactive advertising by Borussia Dortmund can be revolutionary for the industry.
And I leave you — and any City marketing folks reading — with a really cool promo my lowly Cleveland Browns are doing in conjunction with league partner Bud Light.
Budweiser have installed Bud Light fridges in 10 bars in Cleveland, Ohio. When the Cleveland Browns win their first regular season game, the fridge is unlocked and the beer is free!
The Browns have lost 34 of their last 35 games, but now they have added motivation! pic.twitter.com/BIKkKiQX9m
— UNILAD Sport (@UNILADFooty) August 14, 2018
Sometimes an organization struggles on the field and as a marketing team you need to get a bit creative to drum up interest (sound familiar?). While most of you reading know I’m a huge craft beer guy, I still think this is a savvy promo. And honestly, who doesn't want a free beer? So you know if Orlando City wants to give us season ticket holders some extra incentives involving beer for having to put up with this season, I’m all in!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 3/31/25
Lions and Pride win, NWSL weekend recap, FA Cup quarterfinals, and more.

Hello, Mane Landers! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I’ve been very busy at work but will attend the Chicago Cubs’ home opener at Wrigley Field later this week. Our Lions and Pride won while OCB was off this weekend. We’ve got plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.
Orlando City Beats LA Galaxy on the Road
On Saturday, Orlando City fought back from a 1-0 deficit, scoring two goals in the second half to defeat the LA Galaxy 2-1 at Dignity Health Sports Park. The Galaxy struck early in the first half to jump on top. In the second half, the Lions were awarded a penalty kick after Eduard Atuesta was taken down in the box, and Martin Ojeda buried the spot kick to tie the match at one. In the 90th minute, Luis Muriel scored the winning goal on a long-range free kick to complete the comeback. Orlando is on a three-match unbeaten streak and beat the LA Galaxy for the third consecutive time. Orlando City’s next match will be on the road Saturday against the Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park.
Orlando Pride Defeat San Diego Wave at Home
The Orlando Pride defeated the San Diego Wave 2-1 Saturday afternoon at Inter&Co Stadium and extended their win streak to three matches to start the season. After a scoreless first half, Haley McCutcheon scored to give Orlando the lead. The Wave equalized before Marta converted a penalty kick goal to seal the win for Orlando. The Pride are off to a great start this season, outscoring their opponents 10-1, and are atop the NWSL standings ahead of the Kansas City Current on goal difference. The Pride are off this weekend due to the international break but will be on the road in their next match against the Seattle Reign on April 12.
NWSL Weekend Recap
The National Women’s Soccer League’s third week of matches is in the books. On Friday, the Houston Dash and NJ/NY Gotham FC match ended in a scoreless draw. The Washington Spirit defeated Bay FC 2-0, with Ashley Hatch scoring both goals. On Saturday, the Kansas City Current defeated the Utah Royals 3-0, while the Portland Thorns and North Carolina Courage match ended in a scoreless draw. On Sunday, the Chicago Stars fell 1-0 to Racing Louisville and remain winless, while Angel City FC edged the Seattle Reign 2-1 to secure its first win of the season.
FA Cup Quarterfinals Recap
The FA Cup quarterfinals wrapped up with thrilling drama as four clubs booked a spot in the semifinals. Crystal Palace cruised to a 3-0 victory against Fulham, while Nottingham Forest edged Brighton 4-3 on penalties after a scoreless draw to advance. Aston Villa dominated Preston North End as Marcus Rashford scored twice to seal a 3-0 win, while Manchester City edged Bournemouth 2-1. The FA Cup semifinals are set for April 26 as Crystal Palace faces Aston Villa while Nottingham Forest will take on Manchester City.
Free Kicks
- Orlando City GM Luiz Muzzi provided some insight in an ESPN.com article on player transfers and highlighted the importance of building connections with different clubs to facilitate transfers.
- Former Lion Benji Michel is going to play for HJK Helsinki.
- Antoine Griezmann is reportedly staying at Atletico Madrid next season despite being linked to a potential move to join LAFC in MLS.
- RB Leipzig has fired manager Marco Rose, as the club is sixth in the Bundesliga table and has appointed Zsolt Low as interim manager until the end of the season.
- David Blitzer is reportedly close to selling his majority ownership stake in the Utah Royals and Real Salt Lake after owning both clubs since 2022.
- Sports Illustrated released its list of MLS Coaches on the hot seat after poor starts, mentioning Sporting Kansas City’s Peter Vermes, the LA Galaxy’s Greg Vanney, and the New England Revolution’s Caleb Porter.
- FIFA is reportedly considering having a one-game playoff between LAFC and Club America, with the winner replacing Club Leon in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
- That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday, and I’ll see you next time.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 3/28/25
Orlando Pride prepare for the San Diego Wave, NWSL weekend matches, USMNT roster predictions, and more.

We made it to Friday! Celebrate however you see fit, whether that’s an indulgent breakfast or just your favorite cup of coffee. This week has flown by a bit for me and I’m looking forward to a weekend filled with soccer. I’ll be spending the next few days working, reading a new book or two, and working out the kinks of making a frozen coconut mojito. My blender hates me. Let’s get to today’s links!
Orlando Pride Prepare for the San Diego Wave
The Orlando Pride will look to extend their 2025 win streak to three games — and their overall win streak to seven — on Saturday when they host the San Diego Wave at noon. Orlando has looked the part of a defending champion so far, leading the league with eight goals without conceding a single one in two games. The Pride will take on a revamped San Diego team that is unbeaten under Head Coach Jonas Eidevall. Pride Head Coach Seb Hines spoke about how Orlando will need to set the tone early on at home against the Wave and keep up the momentum.
NWSL Provides Entertaining Slate of Weekend Matches
While it’s far too early to think about the NWSL Shield race, it never hurts to check out how the Pride’s competitors are doing while enjoying some great soccer. Tonight features a pair of matches at the same time, with the Washington Spirit hosting Bay FC and the Houston Dash playing on the road against NJ/NY Gotham FC. Kansas City Current forward Temwa Chawinga will have a chance to tie her own record of scoring in eight straight games when her team plays the Utah Royals on Saturday. On Sunday, we’ll get to see if the Seattle Reign’s solid start continues against an unbeaten Angel City FC team searching for its first win of the season.
USMNT Roster Predictions for Concacaf Gold Cup
The pressure is on United States Men’s National Team Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino to turn things around after a rough showing in the final four of the Concacaf Nations League. This summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup will be an opportunity for the USMNT to impress in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, and Pro Soccer Wire dove into how the roster could look for the tournament. Injuries to Ricardo Pepi and Folarin Balogun complicate things up top, but we could see Brenden Aaronson or Alex Zendejas could return to the attack. The Gold Cup will likely also determine which goalkeeper between Matt Turner, Zack Steffen, and Patrick Schulte emerges as the true starter. Players like Sergino Dest, Malik Tillman, and Johnny Cardoso are other notable names to keep an eye out for leading into the tournament.
FA Cup Quarterfinals Kick Off This Weekend
Only eight teams remain in the FA Cup and the action returns with enticing quarterfinal matchups. Preston North End is the only team outside of the English Premier League still fighting, but Manchester City is the only traditional giant left in the field as well. City will face off against a Bournemouth side that beat it 2-1 back in November, while Preston will have to get past Aston Villa, which has only won two of its last eight games. Nottingham Forest forward Chris Wood’s injury adds an obstacle to overcome when the team travels to play Brighton and Hove Albion. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace gets star striker Jean-Philippe Mateta back from injury for its clash with Fulham.
Free Kicks
- Time is running out for Orlando City goalkeeper Pedro Gallese and Peru to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after the latest CONMEBOL matches. Peru did well to beat Bolivia, but lost a crucial match against Venezuela.
- Angel City FC signed Brazilian midfielder Maiara Niehues from Sporting CP on a three-year contract. The 20-year-old recorded 18 goals and three assists in 57 matches across all competitions with the Portuguese club.
- MLS announced an expanded partnership with the media company Footballco to increase coverage of the league and its players. Hopefully this partnership results in a spotlight being put on smaller market teams and lesser known stars in the league, but only time will tell.
- Denver’s NWSL team announced its plans for a new training center and temporary stadium that will seat 12,000 fans for 2026 and 2027.
- The English Premier League’s transfer window will temporarily open on June 1 and close on June 10 to allow clubs participating in the Club World Cup to sign players before the tournament.
- After losing 2-0 in the first leg, Chelsea beat Manchester City 3-0 to advance to the UEFA Women’s Champions League semifinals. The semifinals will have Chelsea take on Barcelona and Arsenal square off against Lyon.
- UEFA is investigating Real Madrid players Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Ceballos for indecent conduct in the Champions League. If a ban is handed out, that player would miss the first leg of Madrid’s quarterfinal matchup with Arsenal.
- Barcelona beat Osasuna 3-0 to move three points ahead of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga, but forward Dani Olmo sustained a leg injury that could see him miss time.
That’s all I have for you for today’s links. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend. Go Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 3/27/25
Marco Pasalic wins Goal of the Matchday, Orlando Pride members join U.S. U-23 camp, Orlando City B beats Crown Legacy FC, and more.

We’re another day closer to what should be an awesome Saturday, with both Orlando City and the Orlando Pride in action. All three of Orlando’s soccer teams have been doing well lately, which is not something we can say too often. Hopefully that trend continues this weekend and beyond. Let’s get to today’s links!
Marco Pasalic Wins MLS Goal of the Matchday
An Orlando City player has won MLS Goal of the Matchday for the first time this season, with Marco Pasalic claiming the award for his strike against D.C. United. The goal was a real team effort from the Lions, as all three Designated Players linked up to get the ball up the field in a hurry for a counter. Pasalic did well to create space and then curl the ball into the back of the net from distance. His goal garnered 64.7% of the vote, beating out goals from Daniel Rios, David Martinez, and Deandre Kerr. In his first year as a Lion, the Croatian winger has already recorded four goals and an assist so far.
Pride’s Zara Chavoshi and Yolanda Thomas Join U.S. U-23 Camp
Orlando Pride defender Zara Chavoshi was called up for the first U-23 United States Women’s National Team training camp of the year, which will run alongside the senior team’s camp in California. The 22-year-old, who was signed by the Pride directly out of college after four years at Wake Forest, will develop her game at the camp alongside other promising young defenders like Savy King, Gisele Thompson, and Eva Gaetino. Orlando Pride Assistant Coach Yolanda Thomas will also be in attendance as an assistant coach at the camp, and it’s great to see her get this opportunity.
Orlando City B Defeats Crown Legacy FC on the Road
Orlando City B won its first road match of the 2025 season, beating Crown Legacy FC 1-0 to extend its unbeaten run to three games (2-0-1). The Young Lions didn’t make things easy on themselves by not converting some solid opportunities to extend their lead, but they ultimately held on to secure all three points. Orlando is now tied at the top of the Eastern Conference standings with New York City FC II with eight points from three matches. OCB’s next match will be a road game against Chattanooga FC on April 5.
Say Hello to Boston Legacy FC
Boston’s NWSL team has rebranded itself as Boston Legacy FC, which is leagues better than BOS Nation FC. The team initially went with that anagram of Bostonian as its name back in October as part of a brand launch that also included a widely criticized marketing campaign involving the slogan “Too Many Balls.” While I’m not crazy about the name, the team deserves credit for not defaulting to something too generic after whiffing on its first swing. The Boston Legacy will take the field for the first time next year as the NWSL’s 16th team.
Free kicks
- Pride midfielder Angelina was called up by Brazil for its friendlies against the United States in California on April 5 and April 8.
- The Pride were well represented in CBS Sports‘ NWSL Team of the Week, with Anna Moorhouse, Rafaelle, Ally Watt, and Barbra Banda all receiving praise for the team’s 2-0 win over NJ/NY Gotham FC.
- From the third round on, every single match of the U.S. Open Cup will be streamed on Paramount+.
- Federal Finance, a development group based in Orlando, proposed plans for a soccer-specific stadium in Winter Garden.
- Bayern Munich winger Alphonso Davies will undergo surgery after tearing his ACL in Canada’s third-place victory over the U.S. in the Concacaf Nations League.
- Alessia Russo had a brace in Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Real Madrid in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. It was just enough for Arsenal to advance on aggregate to the semifinals, where the Gunners will square off against a Lyon side that beat Bayern 4-1 thanks to two goals and an assist from Kadidiatou Diani.
- Despite a 2-1 win against North Korea earlier this week in World Cup qualifying, the United Arab Emirates fired Paul Bento as head coach.
That’s all I have for you this fine Thursday. I hope you all have a terrific day and rest of your week!
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