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Lion Links: 9/2/18

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Hey there, Mane Landers! Happy Sunday. I hope everyone is enjoying their Labor Day weekend; I know I am. I’ve been training with a soccer program that’s set to visit Munich, Germany in a few months time, and I can’t wait to experience the culture and what I expect to be an incredibly high level of play from our opposition. I’ll be sure to take plenty of photos and videos to share with you all once we’re back, and I hope to write up a piece detailing every moment of the trip to provide insight to our audience of this exciting journey and life-changing adventure.

I can’t wait, and I can’t wait to share it all with one of the most passionate group of supporters in this country.

But enough about me. You’re not here for that. You’re here for your Sunday serving of Lion Links. And that’s just what I’ve come to bring you. Before we dive in, let’s all be sure to wish semi-new Lion center back Shane O’Neill a very special happy birthday! He’s been a great addition to the squad, and he deserves praise from all of us. So, pick your social media of choice and give him a holler! We’re lucky to have him.

That said…bon appetit, Mane Landers.

Lions Draw with the Union, 2-2

In the midst of a season of disappointing results, staffing changes, and questionable moves from the front office, the Lions notched a point against Philadelphia last night. Orlando City drew first blood, saw the Union equalize before halftime and take the lead late, then responded with a stoppage-time equalizer.

Also, be sure to keep an eye out for our very own Bearded Guy’s five takeaways, set to be published and at your fingertips later today.

Labor Day Honors: Eight Hardworking Players Recognized

I’m going to start this one out with a bit of disbelief that Yoshimar Yotún didn’t make the cut, because in my humble opinion, he’s absolutely one of the hardest working players in this league. That said, I can’t disagree with mlssoccer.com’s Tom Bogert on his selections for the hardest working players in the league, a recognition birthed from this weekend’s holiday — Labor Day. Players that made the list include Portland’s Diego Chara, Columbus’ Harrison Afful, the New York Red Bulls’ Tyler Adams and Kemar Lawrence, D.C. United’s Paul Arriola, Seattle’s Chad Marshall, LAFC’s Benny Feilhaber, and Toronto’s Michael Bradley. Once again, I can’t disagree with Bogert’s choices, but I do think he should have increased the number of players included on his list to nine to include Yoshi. I might be just a little biased, but man, Yoshi deserved to make this list.

MLS Honors National Beard Day

As a young man who doesn’t naturally grow an abundance of facial hair, this one was completely off of my radar until everyone’s favorite Bearded Guy and our very own Sean Rollins brought it to my attention. Apparently, the first Saturday of every September is recognized as National Beard Day. First of all, our Bearded Guy has the greatest beard in Orlando, no doubt. Maybe even in Florida…possible this country…or hell, maybe on the planet. You all know him, so you know I’m not just saying this to say it; it’s beyond spectacular and I’m envious of its commanding presence (hi, Tom…now you know). To celebrate the occasion, MLS has recognized some of the best beards in the league and boy, there are some beauts.

I’ll never qualify for a beard competition, but you can be damned sure I’d attend one. Why not? If Tom’s there, I’m there. That way I’ll be able to share in the spoils of his inevitable victory. The Lions’ Dom Dwyer makes the cut, but my personal favorite is Portland’s Nathan Reid’s flowing, orange beard. It. Is. Excellent. They even threw in a true throwback, displaying controversial former USMNT player and current commentator Alexi Lalas’ old school shag.

MLS Launches Fifth Annual Kick Childhood Cancer Initiative

The initiative, supported by all 23 clubs in MLS, aims at raising money for the Children’s Oncology Group, an organization dedicated to research in eradicating childhood cancer. This makes me proud to be an MLS fan, and I’ll certainly be looking to make a donation. You should consider it as well, or maybe buy some nice gold swag to show your support (which also counts as a donation). Also included in this momentous and inspiring initiative is the opportunity to not only contribute to a great cause, but also provide fans the chance to bid on match-worn and autographed memorabilia. Additionally, MLS Works will make a donation for each post that includes a scarf and the hashtag #ScarvesUp. So get on it, Mane Landers! The memorabilia is going to be beautiful, and the cause that you’ll be donating to is incredible and could legitimately save lives. Let’s show MLS that we’re a fan base that cares!

Free Kicks

  • Are you kidding me? No. Really. Was this a joke? Sheesh…I love the fans of this club with my entire heart, but c’mon man! Some people just want to watch the world burn, I guess.

  • So, eh, Sydney Leroux might be a psychic? #PowerCouple

  • Me too, Alanna. Me too.

  • DeAndre Yedlin scored his first Premier League goal yesterday during Newcastle’s 2-1 loss to Manchester City, and apparently, it’s historic…well, sort of. See below.


All right, Mane Landers, that’s about all I’ve got for you today. Enjoy the remainder of your Sunday, and if you’re not working tomorrow, take a load off and enjoy your time! Visit family and friends. Reconnect with an old colleague. Make something of your day! Every single day counts, folks. Seize them. And if you need a day just to recharge, do just that. You deserve it (because whew, it’s been a rough season for both the Lions and the Pride).

Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/25/25

Orlando City gets ready for Atlanta United, Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira promoted, NWSL MVP candidates, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Happy Friday! Today starts three straight days of Orlando soccer to enjoy, so make sure to plan your weekend accordingly. It was a fairly fast week for me, and I was able to read three books somehow. Before we dive into today’s links, let’s all wish a very happy 21st birthday to Orlando City winger Nicolas Rodriguez!

Orlando City Gets Ready for Rivalry Match

The Lions are back in action Saturday night against rival Atlanta United in what should be one of the more interesting matchups of the weekend. Both teams are looking for answers on offense heading into this match, as Orlando is coming off of three straight scoreless draws and Atlanta hasn’t won since March. Taking on a rival at home could be just what’s needed for the Lions to jumpstart their attack and return to the form they had earlier this season. Head Coach Oscar Pareja spoke on how it’s an important game to win for Orlando, as well as how the offense needs to exercise some calmness to finish its chances.

Orlando City Promotes Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira

Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira were both promoted by Orlando City, with Moreira taking over as the club’s general manager and sporting director and Muzzi becoming senior advisor to ownership, global soccer ventures. It’s a natural step up for Moreira, who joined the club in 2018 and has helped build a competitive roster that’s made the playoffs for the past five seasons. Muzzi’s new role is a bit of a mouthful, but he’ll be taking on an advisory role focused on the growth of the club while working closely with ownership.

“I am truly grateful to have had the opportunity to serve as Orlando City Soccer Club’s EVP of Soccer Operations and General Manager for seven seasons, and I am excited to continue my journey with the club in this new role,” said Luiz Muzzi. “I look forward to working alongside the Wilf family and the leadership team to help shape the future of the club and its continued success, both on and off the field, and I know Orlando City’s Soccer Operations will be in great hands under Ricardo’s leadership.”

Orlando Pride Players in the NWSL MVP Hunt

Now that we’re over a month into the NWSL season, ESPN‘s Jeff Kassouf highlighted the league’s early MVP candidates, and there are a couple of familiar faces in his rankings. Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda is predictably in the mix in sixth on the list, as she has three goals and an assist to her name so far. But a surprise inclusion is midfielder Haley McCutcheon, who has impressed on both sides of the ball to earn ninth place in the rankings. While I think the MVP race will ultimately be between scorers like Banda, Temwa Chawinga, Ashley Hatch, and Debinha, it’s pretty great to see McCutcheon receive deserved praise for her performance this year.

MLS Transfer News Roundup

The transfer deadline may be over for MLS clubs, but deals that crossed the finish line are still coming in. The Columbus Crew added yet another forward by sending up to $1.2 million to the Houston Dynamo in exchange for Aliyu Ibrahim. The 23-year-old will maintain his U22 Initiative Player status in Columbus and recorded 12 goals and nine assists across 90 appearances for Houston. LAFC signed 26-year-old midfielder Ryan Raposo, who spent the past five seasons with the Vancouver Whitecaps and was a free agent this year. St. Louis City also made things official with Simon Becher by making his loan move a permanent one so that he stays with the club.

Free Kicks


That’s all I have for you this time around. Mother’s Day is less than a month away, just as a warning. If the mothers in your life like romance books and you’re looking for a gift, I can’t recommend The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center enough. Have a great Friday!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/24/25

Orlando Pride prepare for Angel City FC, MLS deadline day deals, OCB slips in power rankings, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

How’s it going, Mane Landers? It’s been a few days since a rough weekend for Orlando City and the Orlando Pride. Time heals all wounds, but let’s also hope it heals offenses considering both teams were shut out. Let’s go ahead and manifest some good officiating this weekend as well while we’re at it. That might be a tall order, but I’m feeling optimistic. Let’s get to the links!

Orlando Pride Prepare for Angel City FC

The Orlando Pride will look to bounce back when they welcome Angel City FC to the City Beautiful for a home game Friday night. Orlando lost its first game of the year and first home game since 2023 last week against the Washington Spirit, falling 1-0. Angel City is also coming off of its first loss of the season, falling 4-0 at home to NJ/NY Gotham FC at home. Pride defender Kerry Abello spoke on how the Pride will need to create better chances compared to last week as they prepare to right the ship with a home victory.

Orlando City B Drops a Spot in Power Rankings

Although OCB fell from third to fourth in the latest MLS NEXT Pro power rankings, the Young Lions are solidly in the top five teams in the league. OCB was on a bye last weekend, so not moving too much in the rankings can be expected. While the Young Lions fell 3-2 in their last league game against Inter Miami II, spirits are likely high with the team due to the Orlando City U-18 team’s success in the Generation Adidas Cup. Let’s hope the Young Lions can ride that momentum into Sunday night’s match with New York Red Bulls II.

MLS Deadline Day Transfer News

The MLS transfer deadline day has come and gone and there were some notable moves to catch up on. Real Salt Lake’s deal with Boavista for forward Robert Bozenik reportedly collapsed, but the club still added striker William Agada from Sporting Kansas City in exchange for $500,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money and another $350,000 in GAM if he re-signs. Inter Miami traded winger Robert Taylor to Austin FC in exchange for up to $750,000 in GAM, with only $50,000 of that being conditional. Atlanta United traded winger Xande Silva to St. Louis City SC for up to $250,000 in GAM as well.

The Houston Dynamo also have a new forward, signing Toyosi Olusanya from Scottish club St. Mirren. The New England Revolution traded Noel Buck to the San Jose Earthquakes for up to $650,000 in cold, hard cash, reuniting the 20-year-old with Bruce Arena. Frankie Amaya is back in MLS, joining LAFC on loan from Toluca. As of this writing, Minnesota United are reportedly in hot pursuit of Miami’s Julian Gressel.

Sources: Minnesota United in advanced talks to acquire Julian Gressel from Inter Miami.Nothing done yet. Still details to figure out. Optimism something gets done, but not there yet.

Tom Bogert (@tombogert.bsky.social) 2025-04-24T00:25:26.971Z

Keeping Up With the Americans Abroad

The race for a place in the English Premier League is heating up in the EFL Championship and Americans are right in the thick of it. Brenden Aaronson and Leeds United have already secured promotion, along with Burnley. Forward Haji Wright has scored 12 goals for Coventry City this season, and his club currently holds the final playoff spot. Midfielder Aidan Morris and Middlesbrough are three points behind, while former Lion Daryl Dike and West Brom will need to win their remaining two matches for a shot at sneaking in.

In Italy, Christian Pulisic started in AC Milan’s 3-0 victory over rival Inter to book a spot in the Italian Cup final on May 14. Fellow American Yunus Musah was an unused substitute. Catarina Macario scored twice and Mia Fishel added a goal as well in Chelsea’s 4-0 win against Crystal Palace, helping their team get ever closer to winning its sixth straight Women’s Super League title.

Free Kicks


That’s it for today’s links! Make sure to stay hydrated out there as we get closer and closer to summer. Have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week.

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 4/23/25

The Orlando Pride drop, OCSC Academy awards, USMNT characters, and more.

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Image courtesy of Orlando City B / Mark Thor

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. This weekend we have the most convenient schedule, with the Orlando Pride playing Friday night, Orlando City on Saturday night, and Orlando City B on Sunday night. It’s nice knowing what I’ll be doing each night. Now, I just need all three teams to get back on the winning side of things. Until then, let’s get to the links.

Bad Pride, Good Pride

It might have been the dumbest way to lose a match against the Washington Spirit, but — actually nevermind, there is no “but” about it. We can, however, decide to move forward rather than dwell on it after today. Unsurprisingly, the Pride dropped in the all-knowing power rankings. All for XI only dropped the Pride one spot to No. 2 since everyone has a bad day now and again. The CBS power ranking dropped the team to No. 3. That was the “bad.” The “good” is that we can revisit the puppies that showed up at Inter&Co Stadium. The loss still hurts, but it’s hard to stay mad after looking at the puppies.

The (OCSC) Academy Awards

Assuming you read Lion Links on Monday morning (or listened to The Mane Land PawedCast this week) you know that the Orlando City SC Academy U-18 team won the Generation Adidas Cup. Now we know that three of the very young Lions — Gustavo Caraballo, Jackson Platts, and Justin Ellis — were named to the U18 Best XI. Additionally, Caraballo and Ellis earned MVP and Top Scorer awards, respectively. It was truly the bright spot of an otherwise forgettable weekend.

Pochettino Prepares

The USMNT did not do well in the Concacaf Nations League, falling to Panama and then Canada in the third place match. Now, U.S. Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino has to prepare the team for the Gold Cup. Pochettino said that he needs the “right characters” on the squad, whether they are the most talented or not. He also spoke of the need for the players to fight for the badge and the flag. Former USMNT coach Bruce Arena said Pochettino may not be the right man for the job because he’s not an American. The USMNT’s next matches are friendlies against Turkiye and Switzerland on June 7 and June 10, respectively.

MLS Transfer News

The Columbus Crew are making moves. The club received $250,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) from the Houston Dynamo in exchange for a 2025 international roster slot. The club then sent DeJuan Jones to the San Jose Earthquakes for $425,000 in GAM and a 2025 international roster slot. Elsewhere, Sporting Kansas City acquired forward Santiago Muñoz on loan from Liga MX side Santos Laguna.

Free Kicks


That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for the full slate of matches coming up.

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