Lion Links
Lion Links: 8/26/18
Happy Sunday, Mane Landers. Or, well, Sunday. Last night was a tough pill to swallow, as the Pride fell, hard, to the Chicago Red Stars and crashed out of the playoff picture. Meanwhile, the Lions are at the bottom of the Eastern Conference table. Ah, what a time to be an Orlando supporter.
Whatever. There’s always next season, right? You can’t see it or hear it, but I just let out a deep, elongated sigh.
That said…here’s your Sunday helping of Lion Links. Do your best to enjoy them.
Pride Crash and Burn in Must-Win Match vs. Chicago
In a must-win match with major playoff implications, the Orlando Pride went gently into that good night, losing 3-1 at home to the Chicago Red Stars. Mother nature struck yet again, and after just a few minutes of wide open play, the officials called for a weather delay due to lightning. Thanks, Florida. Eventually, the match got back underway…and it wasn’t pretty. The Red Stars were all over the Pride and, despite some early heroics from the Pride’s Ashlyn Harris, the Red Stars scored twice just before the end of the first half. It didn’t get any better during the second half, either, as the Red Stars scored again. Unfortunately for the Pride, the playoff picture is broken…and is impossible to reassemble.
Orlando City’s Youngsters See Minutes Against Atlanta United
With things looking increasingly bleak for the Lions, Head Coach James O’Connor made the bold decision to field some of the youngest players on his roster against the club’s red hot rivals. Pierre Da Silva saw his first MLS minutes on the season, Josué Colmán was handed a start, and even Jose Villarreal got on for the last few minutes. Sure, O’Connor’s hand was forced due to suspensions and injuries, but I’d love to see more of the younger players on this roster. I’m a proponent of building a club through Homegrown or young players — not just by adding marquee names to the roster. I hope O’Connor continues to allow his younger stars opportunities to shine: it can only brighten the future of the club. The future is purple…remember?
U.S. Men’s National Team Updates
In a time in which there isn’t even a manager of the USMNT yet, there’s still a lot going down and a lot to be updated on. First of all, center back John Brooks scored his first goal with Wolfsburg in the team’s 2-1 victory over Schalke 04. Funny enough, Brooks found the back of the net in his 100th Bundesliga appearance (remember that, because it’s bound to crop up in a trivia night somewhere). Have a gander.
JOHN BROOKS!
The USMNT defender scores his first goal for Wolfsburg on his 100th Bundesliga appearance. 🇺🇸 #WOBS04 pic.twitter.com/KLXRm41z0R
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) August 25, 2018
Meanwhile, Tottenham’s Cameron Carter-Vickers has officially become a Swan, sealing a season-long loan deal with Swansea City AFC. This move in particular is exciting for everyone involved: CCV gets minutes, the Swans get a capable center back (they currently have only two on the roster), and the Spurs get to let their young talent develop without having to compromise their 18. It’ll be exciting to see CCV with the Swans, and even more exciting to potentially see him partner with the aforementioned Brooks for the USMNT. Now, about that manager…please find an appropriate one. Please.
Hope Solo Sues U.S. Soccer Over Pay Gap
The former U.S. Women’s National Team keeper has made the decision to continue her pursuit of justice against the U.S. Soccer Federation, taking the organization to court over what she claims is an unlawful difference in compensation that exists between the USMNT’s players and the USWNT’s players. Highlighted in the suit includes claims that the men were paid significantly more than the women when it came to World Cup matches, Olympic matches, friendlies, and sponsor appearances, and money from ticket sales. It’ll be interesting to see where this one goes.
Free Kicks
- A major congratulations are in order to Orlando City midfielder Richie Laryea and Melanie Pace, as they’ve just found out they’re expecting a bouncing baby boy! Something tells me this young lad will have a ball in his hands fairly soon after entering this world: just as it should be. Here’s the reveal, and just look at that form from Richie!
- Los Angeles FC’s captain, Laurent Ciman, may be moving abroad sooner rather than later. Having been left out of the 18 for his current club’s critical clash with rival side LA Galaxy, reports are indicating that Sporting Dijon and an unnamed Belgian club are after his services, with Dijon having attempted to acquire him just a year ago.
- The Washington Spirit hope that Audi Field serves in their favor when it comes to attendance and performance, both now and later. It truly could, especially when you consider how young and talented their roster is. They’ve under performed severely this season, but Audi Field seems to have lifted everyone’s spirits (no pun intended). The club drew more than 7,000 fans last night, so that’s a good start.
- The Atlantic’s Brooks Peck wrote up an interestingly comical piece detailing the MLS clubs he thinks could pick up and move in an instant. He names Orlando City, which seems absurd. But hey, crazier things have happened (but no, I don’t see it happening, and I definitely don’t see Disney buying the stadium and naming it Kaká’s Castle, but you should get a good laugh from the article at the very least).
- Check out Maneul Veth’s piece on his journey from Canada to Russia to cover the World Cup. He had quite the adventure!
- Kyle Beckerman’s got the jams. I’ve always been a fan of his, but gaining insight into what’s on his music playlist makes me like him even more.
Well, that’s all I have for you today folks. Be sure to check back in periodically to stay up to date on your Orlando City and Pride news. Enjoy your college football, if that’s your fancy, and also start preparing for the upcoming NFL season! Today is Draft Day for me and my money league. I’m coming for the silverware. I won one of my two leagues last year (thank you, Todd Gurley), and I’m ready for this season. As legendary coach Herm Edwards would say:
Until next time, Mane Landers. Have yourselves an excellent week.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 10/23/26
Orlando City prepares for New York City FC, Antoine Griezmann’s impact in Orlando, U.S. will host FIFA Women’s Club World Cup, and more.
Happy Friday, Mane Landers! It’s been a pretty nice week for me, as I was able to watch all of Slow Horses and finish reading Bad Words by Rioghnach Robinson, both of which were brilliant. Attention now turns to this weekend’s soccer, with both Orlando City and the Orlando Pride playing at home over the next couple of days. Let’s get to the links!
Orlando City Prepares for New York City FC
The Lions host New York City FC on Saturday in one of the marquee matchups in MLS as the regular season nears its conclusion. Plenty has changed since Orlando’s 5-0 loss to NYCFC on March 7. The Lions have clawed their way up the table while the Pigeons have only won once in their past 13 league games. NYCFC enters this match after a 1-1 draw with LAFC that included an equalizer by former Lion Andres Perea to give the team a valuable point amid the playoff race. Nicolas Fernandez Mercau, Luighi, and Benie Traore are all NYCFC players the Lions will need to keep in check, or else it could end up being another high-scoring affair in the City Beautiful.
Antoine Griezmann’s Impact on Orlando’s Offense
Orlando’s wait for Antoine Griezmann to join in the summer has proven to be well worth it, as he’s transformed Orlando’s attack into a force to be reckoned with just as the playoffs near. Although Griezmann wasn’t able to enjoy a fairytale ending with Atletico Madrid by lifting the Copa del Rey or Champions League trophies this year, he’s breathed life into an Orlando side that struggled mightily prior to his arrival. The 35-year-old has recorded 12 goals and seven assists in just 14 appearances this season. Not only has he excelled when it comes to getting the ball in the net, but he’s done well in terms of defensive metrics and intangibles as well.
U.S. Will Host Women’s Club World Cup
The inaugural FIFA Women’s Club World Cup will be held in the U.S. in January of 2028 with the host cities still to be determined. There will be 19 clubs taking part, with Gotham, Arsenal, Barcelona, and Club America having already qualified along with three other teams so far. This tournament is sandwiched between the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, so there’s plenty of exciting women’s soccer to look forward to in the coming years.
U.S. U-17 Women’s National Team Wins at World Cup
The United States U-17 Women’s National Team won 6-1 against Kenya in the group stage of the FIA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, clinching a spot in the round of 16. Maggie DiMaria scored four goals to bring her total to 10 across just two games. The U.S. will play its final group game on Sunday against China PR, which also won both of its games against Kenya and Samoa to secure a spot in the knockout stage. The winner of this group will get to avoid a match with Spain in the round of 16, so there’s still plenty to play for before the next round gets underway.
Free Kicks
- The first leg of the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal between the United States Men’s National Team and Haiti has been moved from Kingston to Miami. Haiti has had to play games outside of the country due to unrest and submitted a request to Concacaf to play in the country of its opponent.
- American center back Naomi Girma is now dealing with a calf injury that may sideline her for a few weeks according to Chelsea Head Coach Sonia Bompastor. She missed out on the team’s recent friendlies against Spain and may be absent for the Concacaf W Championship quarterfinal against El Salvador next month too.
- The United States Women’s Cerebral Palsy National Team beat Ireland 15-0 to advance to the IFCPF Women’s World Cup final, which takes place today against Australia. Annie Wickett scored five goals with four other players scoring braces.
- The San Diego Wave signed defender Mimi Van Zanten to a contract extension through the 2029 season. She’s made 27 appearances for San Diego during her rookie season, helping the club keep pace in the NWSL Shield race.
- After being stretchered off the field due to a head injury in the U.S. Open Cup final, St. Louis City goalkeeper Roman Burki is alert and in good spirits, according to the club.
That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 10/22/26
Martin Ojeda wins MLS Goal of the Matchday, MLS award contenders, sights and sounds from the Orlando Pride’s win, and more.
How’s it going, Mane Landers? The temperatures have gotten just cool enough here in Florida as of late for me to feel like it’s truly autumn. While it would be nice if our leaves changed colors to really sell the fall feeling, a pumpkin candle and apple cider have definitely helped. Let’s get to the links!
Martin Ojeda Wins MLS Goal of the Matchday
Orlando City Designated Player Martin Ojeda predictably won MLS Goal of the Matchday for his fantastic finish in the team’s 4-1 win over D.C. United, garnering 71.7% of the vote. Ojeda’s acrobatic backheel capped off a smooth series of passes by the Lions and it will likely be in the running for MLS Goal of the Year as well. It was Ojeda’s 15th goal of the season and he has scored in five of Orlando’s past six games.
MLS Year-End Award Voting Begins
The voting for this year’s MLS Year-End Awards has opened and the finalists for each award will be announced on Nov. 12. Former MLS star Bradley Wright-Phillips weighed in on who he thinks the contenders for each award are and there were a few Lions mentioned. Antoine Griezmann is in the running for Newcomer of the Year alongside Houston Dynamo attacker Guilherme, who has 16 goals and 10 assists this season. Maxime Crepeau may make the list of finalists for Goalkeeper of the Year for his incredible run of form since the World Cup, but it’s hard to see him winning it given just how many goals the Lions have conceded compared to other teams. Justin Ellis was also an honorable mention for the Young Player of the Year award for his breakout season.
Sights and Sounds From the Orlando Pride’s Victory
The Orlando Pride released a video showing the sights and sounds from their 2-1 win on the road against the Houston Dash. The video includes huddle talks from Marta and interim head coach Yolanda Thomas, as well as the goals by Luana and Solai Washington. It’s been a difficult year for the Pride and it’s nice to see some highlights as they aim to close out the season strongly after being eliminated from playoff contention.
UEFA Champions League Roundup
The third round of matches in the UEFA Champions League’s league phase wrapped up and we’re getting a better sense of where the teams stand. Bayern Munich and Arsenal played to a 2-2 draw in Germany, with Declan Rice scoring a late equalizer for Arsenal. Elsewhere across Europe, Manchester United was beaten 4-1 by Como, Inter scored while down a man to beat Shakhtar Donetsk 1-0, and Austrian club LASK won its first Champions League game by upsetting Sporting CP 3-2. Aston Villa, Real Madrid, and Real Betis all won to remain perfect in the tournament as well.
Free Kicks
- Griezmann was noted as an MLS star who is driving their team toward success during the playoff race. The Lions have built a gap between themselves and the playoff line, but avoiding the play-in round is paramount at this point.
- Orlando City academy players Maximiliano Alvarez and Carson Starrett were both called up for the U.S. U-16 National Team’s training camp in California.
- St. Louis City won its first trophy since joining MLS by winning a penalty shootout after a scoreless draw in Columbus to capture the 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup title. St. Louis secured a spot in the next Concacaf Champions Cup and won the shootout 5-4 despite star goalkeeper Roman Burki being stretchered off during the match.
- Forge FC beat CF Montreal in penalties to win the Canadian Championship, becoming the first Canadian Premier League team to win the title.
- The Houston Dynamo signed Head Coach Ben Olsen to a contract extension through the 2027-2028 season. The Dynamo are fifth in the Western Conference and have secured a spot in the playoffs already.
- Footy Analytics Musings dove into how MLS injury designations have gotten more uncertain over the years. From analyzing the notoriously vague lower body injuries to seeing just how rarely players who are designated as questionable actually end up playing, it’s an interesting read to say the least.
- Despite a loss and draw to Spain this month, the United States Women’s National Team remained in second in the latest FIFA rankings.
- The U.S. Men’s Cerebral Palsy National Team beat Ireland 2-0 to advance to the semifinals of the 2026 IFCPF World Cup.
That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 10/21/26
Justin Ellis recognized, the Orlando Youth Soccer Network expands, the USMNT adds a friendly, and more.
Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. The weather is getting a bit nicer. I’m actually able to have the windows open at night, which is delightful. However, the temperatures are rising a bit this week, which I find sad. I know we live in Florida, but gosh darn it, we’re only 10 days from Halloween. I should be wearing sweaters rather than shorts. I appreciate you allowing me to rant, now let’s get to the links.
Justin Ellis Named No. 5 of MLS 22 Under 22
Justin Ellis was rightly named to Major League Soccer’s 2026 22 Under 22 list. The Orlando City striker came in at No. 5 on the list. It’s not surprising, given the year he’s had. He’s busted into the starting lineup for Orlando City, and he has 16 goal contributions so far. He also received his first call-up to the USMNT, scoring a goal in his first match and two goals in the four-game window. He’s joined on the list by fellow USMNT teammates Cavan Sullivan and Julian Hall. This is his second accolade in the last week as he was also named 2026 MLS NEXT Pro Pathway Player of the Year.
New Orlando Soccer School Announced
Orlando City and the Orlando Pride are expanding the Orlando Youth Soccer Network with the addition of the Orlando Soccer School – Winter Haven. The organization is formerly known as the Winter Haven Soccer Club. The school will provide programming for boys and girls ages 3-19. This is an example of the top-to-bottom pipeline the organization is building to develop players for both the men’s and women’s clubs.
Orlando City B Season in Review
Like the Orlando Pride, Orlando City B did not make the post season in 2026. That doesn’t necessarily mean it wasn’t a success in other ways. Orlando City B is a developmental squad, and the reserve side did its job in developing prospects this season. Some OCB players made it into the first team, there were a record number of academy debuts, and the team saw several international call-ups. Given how inconsistent the squad was because of all the shuffling around, it’s not surprising the team struggled on the pitch at times. Hopefully, all the younger players getting time will set the team up for success next season.
USMNT to Face Jamaica in December
The USMNT added a friendly against Jamaica on December 13 in Miami. The match takes place outside of the international window, so we can expect Mauricio Pochettino to call up MLS players whose clubs have been eliminated from the playoffs. There’s also a possibility for some European-based players, but clubs are not required to release them. Prior to that, the team will be in action in against Haiti in the two quarterfinal legs of the Concacaf Nations League.
Free Kicks
- The Lions are up to 11th in the MLS power rankings following their 4-1 victory over D.C. United. Even the writer got distracted by Martin Ojeda’s amazing goal.
- Orlando City midfielder Luis Otavio is on the list to potentially be on next year’s MLS 22 Under 22. Hopefully, he plays well enough for that to come to pass.
- Pride striker Barbra Banda is on the list for the Women’s Ballon d’Or. The award ceremony takes place on Oct. 26.
- The Bundesliga has a new broadcast rights deal in the U.S. The league will try to leverage the visibility of soccer following the World Cup.
That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for the matches this weekend. Vamos Orlando!
Intelligence Report: Orlando City vs. New York City FC
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