Lion Links
Lion Links: 2/13/19

Happy Hump Day, everyone. The Orlando City season looms larger on the horizon every day and many of us will finally get our first look at the 2019 squad in person on Saturday night when the Lions welcome New York City FC. That should be fun, and it will be nice to follow along with a game as it happens live rather than waiting for sporadic social media posts from the club.
There is a plethora of news items to get into today, so here we go.
Orlando City Falls to Philadelphia Union in Closed Scrimmage
Things didn’t go well for Orlando City at Championsgate on Tuesday afternoon, as the Philadelphia Union ran riot for a 4-1 win over 90 minutes. The teams agreed to play an additional half hour afterward, but no goals were added. Here’s a rundown of the City starters:
Orlando City lineup:
Rowe
O’Neill
De John
Miller
Ruan
Acosta
Kljestan
Mendez
Rosell
Akindele
MuellerNote: Team is rocking gray tops for today’s scrimmage.
— Jordan Culver (@JordanCulver) February 12, 2019
Chris Mueller opened the scoring for Orlando after the Lions worked the ball through traffic at the top of the area.
Cash szn! @cmueller1662 opens the scoring with some nice combo play at the top of the box!
1-0 | #ORLvPHI pic.twitter.com/zL6VOqdGwO
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) February 12, 2019
Things unraveled from there. The Union scored the next four over the remainder of the match, including a penalty surrendered by new right back Ruan in an inauspicious start. After only a few days of training with his new team, it wasn’t the start Ruan wanted but it’s early days for the Brazilian.
There are three preseason games left and only one of those is closed, so we’ve almost made it through the long, dark off-season. Preseason is preseason, and of course Dom Dwyer is still out with a quad injury, but this team seems to have the same issues scoring goals if the preseason is anything to go by. Three games, three goals. Look for more on that subject later today.
Warshaw: Dwyer is Orlando City’s ‘Most Irreplaceable Player’
Over at mlssoccer.com, Bobby Warshaw put together his list of players from each team that he deems the ‘most irreplaceable.’ For Orlando City, he chose striker Dom Dwyer.
If you have Dwyer in your team, you have to account for his specific skillset. Dwyer can be an elite striker in MLS and singlehandedly lift a team, but his unique attributes make him tough to replace.
I don’t disagree with his selection but possibly that says more about the squad than Dwyer. I love me some post-goal Dom back flips as much as anyone, and maybe more than most, but I’m not sure it’s a good sign if your striker is your most irreplaceable player. A dominating defensive midfielder or an attacking mid that you can’t dispossess seem like they’d be more valuable overall (provided you have a good backup striker who can put the ball in the net), but I’m not sure this team has that at this point. But we’ll see once the season starts.
Lions Have a New Radio Voice
Bruce Silverman will be Orlando City’s new radio play-by-play voice on 96.9 The Game. The former television play-by-play announcer for Miami FC tweeted out the news yesterday. Silverman also says he’s going to do “television” broadcasts for OCB games, which…having not heard of a TV deal for the USL League One side, I’m guessing is more streaming video on YouTube or the USL League One site.
No more teasing! The Purple Reign has begun!
I will be the radio play-by-play voice of @OrlandoCitySC of @mls on @969thegame and the television play-by-play voice of @OrlandoCityB of @USLLeagueOne ! pic.twitter.com/gSL03uFqF6— SILVERMAN: On Sports (@SilvermanShow) February 12, 2019
Silverman has his own talk show as well, Silverman on Sports. He describes himself as “a hard-news guy in a sportscaster’s mind” on his website. I’m generally at the game or watching road matches on TV so I don’t think I’ve heard a single radio broadcast from the team yet but hopefully fans will like what Silverman brings.
Orlando Pride Stars Named to 2019 SheBelieves Cup Roster
To no one’s surprise, Pride striker Alex Morgan and goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris were named to Jill Ellis’ 23-player squad for the SheBelieves Cup, which kicks off in two weeks. England, Japan, and Brazil will come stateside to take on the Yanks in this year’s iteration of the tournament, which will take place in Chester, PA; Nashville, TN; and Tampa, FL. We hope to be on site for the last match on March 5 in Tampa against the Brazilians, for some Pride vs. Pride action. Notably absent will be Lindsay Horan, who is recovering from a quad injury.
Free Kicks
- Congratulations to Orlando City forward Tesho Akindele.
Orlando City forward Tesho Akindele welcomed his first child over the weekend, according to the club.
— Jordan Culver (@JordanCulver) February 12, 2019
- Don’t forget, you can get a bus ride to see the SeaWolves play in Lakeland Saturday and a ticket to the game for just 25 bucks with this special offer.
- D.C. United has a decision to make at backup goalkeeper — Chris Seitz, or former Lion Earl Edwards, Jr.?
- Good news, you guys. Sky Blue FC is going to try to start operating like a professional club should. At least, so they say.
Announcement on behalf of Sky Blue Ownership pic.twitter.com/tYQbJ2OICd
— Sky Blue FC (@SkyBlueFC) February 12, 2019
- If you forget your passport, you’re probably missing your flight. If you’re Jadon Sancho, they hold up the entire flight for you.
- All Champions League and Europa League games this week will observe a minute of silence in remembrance of Emiliano Sala.
- FC Cincinnati has acquired the rights to Kekuta Manneh from the Columbus Crew and a signing announcement is expected.
- The enemy has arrived in town.
Touchdown in Orlando and the weather is looking better… ☀️@TonyRocha16 #NYCFC pic.twitter.com/9eBBkZVwt9
— New York City FC (@NYCFC) February 12, 2019
- England mourns the passing of World Cup-winning goalkeeper Gordon Banks at age 81.
- Sebastian Giovinco has opened his account with his new club.
Govinco first goal with @Alhilal_FC pic.twitter.com/ypKYhOCanl
— Mavi aşk (@mavi_hilal_love) February 12, 2019
- Those born on this date include legendary Grambling football coach Eddie Robinson (1919), general/pilot Chuck Yeager (1923), The Goldbergs grandpa George Segal (1934), Monkees bassist Peter Tork (1942), actress Stockard Channing (1944), Duke hoops coach Mike Krzyzewski (1947), musician (one of my absolute favorites) Peter Gabriel (1950), Henry Rollins (1961), actor Neal McDonough (1966), Swedish hockey legend Mats Sundin (1971), football’s Randy Moss (1977), and Netherlands/Lyon forward Memphis Depay (1994).
That’s all I’ve got for you on this particular Wednesday. Hang in there. The weekend is almost in sight and we’ve got to get to the purple palace for Saturday’s match.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 4/9/25
Get to know Rodrigo Schlegel, Citrus Kit reimagined, USWNT falls to Brazil, and more.

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. We’re neck deep into a busy week of soccer with the USWNT late Tuesday night, Orlando City B playing tonight, and Orlando City and the Orlando Pride on the Saturday schedule this weekend. Don’t you love this time of the year? I love that there’s almost always a soccer match available to watch. Let’s get to the links.
Focus on Rodrigo Schlegel
Orlando City continues the Lion’s Den Walk and Talk series of interviewing players with a look at center back Rodrigo Schlegel. This is your opportunity to get to know the Argentinian defender. He speaks of his childhood, his family, and his time with Orlando. My favorite part is when he speaks of the matches that have helped define him.
Citrus Kit Fashion
Since 2022, the Orlando Pride have collaborated with artists to create concept kits from the club’s current kit. This season, the club partnered with Sophie Hird on the Citrus Kit. Hird is a British designer and graduate of London College of Fashion. The result has a western flair seen here modeled by Pride defender Cori Dyke.
This is the fourth kit collaboration for the club. The collection is on display at Orlando Health facilities in Central Florida.
OCB Hosts New England Revolution II
Orlando City B welcomes New England Revolution II to Osceola Heritage Park tonight. The Young Lions will try to rebound from their 2-0 loss to Chattanooga FC Saturday. It won’t get any easier against Revs II, who sit just above OCB in the MLS NEXT Pro standings. Revs II haven’t conceded any goals so far this season, and have scored just as many goals as the Young Lions. The match start time is 7 p.m. and can be streamed on MLSNEXTPro.com.
Brazil Defeats USWNT
The Brazilian Women’s National Team defeated the USWNT 2-1 Tuesday night scoring the winning goal in the fifth minute of second-half stoppage time. The U.S. got things started early on a goal in the first minute from Catarina Macario, but was unable to add to that later in the match. The Pride’s Angelina got the start for Brazil, but Emily Sams did not appear for the USWNT. Maybe if Sams in subbed on then Amanda Gutierres doesn’t get that winning goal. We’ll never know.
USMNT Players Abroad
Several USMNT players were in action, including former Lion Daryl Dike, who saw action in West Bromwich Albion’s 2-1 loss at Bristol City. Dike subbed on in the 65th minute for the Baggies. It’s been a month since he returned to action following his second torn Achilles tendon. Elsewhere, Brenden Aaronson’s Leeds United defeated Aidan Morris’ Middlesbrough 1-0.
Free Kicks
- The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will feature ref cams providing additional footage to broadcasters. Referees wearing body cams. What could go wrong?
- NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman said she expects that the league will continue to play matches during the 2026 World Cup. Some stadiums will not be available during the World Cup, necessitating work-arounds for some clubs.
- Orlando City jumped up to No. 9 in the oh-so-important and totally scientific MLSSoccer.com power rankings.
- We’re not the only ones noticing Gustavo Caraballo’s potential.
- Former Lion Dom Dwyer scored for Mansfield Town in EFL League One in a match against Leyton Orient, extending his goal-scoring streak. Seems he finally wanted to score.
That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for the Orlando City and Orlando Pride matches this weekend. Vamos Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 4/8/25
Orlando City academy roundup, Americans in midweek action, UEFA Champions League preview, and more.

Happy Tuesday, gang. It was a quiet weekend for Orlando soccer as Orlando City drew on the road and Orlando City B suffered its first loss of the young season. Things pick back up this week though, as the USWNT battles Brazil tonight, OCB plays Wednesday night, and OCSC and the Orlando Pride will be in action once the weekend rolls around. We have a bevy of things to talk through today, so let’s get into the links.
Orlando City Academy Roundup
The 2025 Generation Adidas Cup is right around the corner, and one of Orlando City’s youth talents has been identified as someone to watch in the tournament. Center back Clovis Archange has been named in this year’s Rising XI, with his passing range and athleticisim garnering specific praise. Continuing the theme of youth action, Orlando had six different academy teams in action over the weekend, and it was a largely successful time for them, as all but one was victorious in their games.
We’ve also got the schedule that Orlando City’s U-16 and U-18 teams will play in the Generation Adidas Cup, so make sure you keep an eye on all the action this week.
Americans in Midweek Action
There are multiple American players who will be taking part in games during the working week, with cup competition being a recurring theme. Things get started this afternoon with some American-on-American violence when Aidan Morris and Middlesborough meet Brenden Aaronson and Leeds in the Championship. Then tonight has Alex Zendejas and Club America taking on Cruz Azul in the Concacaf Champions League. Tomorrow’s big match has Gio Reyna and Dortmund facing Barcelona and Diego Kochen in the UEFA Champions League. Thursday then has Tanner Tessman and Lyon squaring off against Manchester United in the Europa League, while Johnny Cardoso and Real Betis play Polish side Jagiellonia Białystok in the Conference League.
UEFA Champions League Preview
As mentioned above, the UEFA Champions League makes its return this week, so let’s refresh on where we stand heading into the quarterfinals. Today has Inter Milan facing Bayern in Germany and Arsenal squaring off against Real Madrid in London. Bayern has only lost twice this calendar year and is probably the favorite at home, but Inter is top of Serie A and has had plenty of recent success in the competition. Real Madrid is almost always favored in the Champions League, but Arsenal has the luxury of being able to put the majority of its focus on the UCL with the Premier League title essentially out of reach, and Thibaut Courtois admitted his side is aware of the threat the Gunners pose from set pieces. Wednesday has Aston Villa taking on Paris Saint-Germain, and the English side will need to find a way to quiet Ousmane Dembele, who has been fantastic since the turn of the calendar year. Barcelona is top of La Liga and the favorite against Borussia Dortmund, but the German side has been in good form in the UCL this year as opposed to a league campaign its fans would probably rather forget.
Transfer Rumor Roundup
Regardless of if the windows are open or not, transfer season never truly stops, so let’s have a look at what’s been in the headlines lately. Liverpool is said to be searching for alternatives to Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez, with Victor Osimhen and Benjamin Sesko reportedly identified as more cost-effective options than Alexander Isak. Manchester United is reportedly interested in signing Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers, with Arsenal also in hot pursuit of the Brazilian. Newcastle is reportedly interested in signing Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace, with Toon boss Eddie Howe apparently a big fan of the England international. Finally, Ansu Fati is reportedly ready to leave Barcelona, as he has not been playing a big part under Hansi Flick since returning from his loan at Brighton last season.
Free Kicks
- Orlando City held fast at no.11 in ESPN.com’s MLS power rankings.
- The sports powers that be in Orlando are optimistic about the possibility of hosting games during the 2031 Women’s World Cup.
- The Northern Super League, Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league, has announced a multi-year partnership with ESPN.
- The Vancouver Whitecaps are exploring building a new team-owned stadium in order to help keep the club in the city.
- Denver’s NWSL team has 10,000 season ticket deposits.
- Tammy Abraham says that he wants to head to the U.S. with Christian Pulisic if the American ever decides to move his playing career stateside.
- The Brazilian football federation has introduced a rule that will punish players who stand on the ball with both feet.
- Newcastle scored a pretty wild goal in its 3-0 victory over Leicester City.
That’s it for me today. Enjoy your day, and as always, vamos Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 4/7/25
Lions draw on the road, OCB falls to Chattanooga FC, USWNT beats Brazil, and more.

Hello, Mane Landers! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I’ve been busy at work while catching up with friends over the weekend at a Cubs game. Our Lions picked up a draw in Philadelphia, and OCB lost, while the Pride was off this weekend. We’ve got plenty of cover today, so let’s get to the links.
Lions Draw Philadelphia Union on the Road
Orlando City and the Philadelphia Union split the points in a scoreless draw at Subaru Park Saturday. The Lions’ back line posted a shutout for the first time this season, but the league’s best attack couldn’t find the back of the net for the first time. Orlando City goalkeeper Pedro Gallese made four saves to earn his first clean sheet of the season. Orlando’s best chance came in the 70th minute when Martin Ojeda set up Luis Muriel, and he ripped his shot on goal, but Union goalkeeper Andre Blake made a clutch save. The Lions finished the season series winless against the Union but took four out of six possible points in their two-game road trip against the LA Galaxy and Philadelphia. Orlando City also extended its unbeaten run to four matches. Orlando City will return to Inter&Co Stadium Saturday to take on the New York Red Bulls.
OCB Falls to Chattanooga FC on the Road
Orlando City B fell 2-0 to Chattanooga FC Saturday at Finley Stadium. It was the Young Lions’ first loss of the season. Shak Mohammed, Thomas Williams, Colin Guske, and Gustavo Caraballo were all unavailable for OCB as they were with the first team in Philadelphia. After a scoreless first half, Chattanooga FC’s Daniel Mangarov and Keegan Ancelin scored in the second half to seal the win. It will be a quick turnaround as OCB will be back in action on Wednesday to face New England Revolution II at Osceola County Stadium.
USWNT Defeat Brazil in Friendly
The U.S. Women’s National Team defeated Brazil 2-0 Saturday at SoFi Stadium in an international friendly. It was the first meeting between the two sides since the 2024 Paris Olympics final won by the USWNT last summer. Orlando Pride defender Emily Sams was on the bench for the USWNT but did not play. Orlando Pride midfielder Angelina played 81 minutes for the Brazilians, captaining the side, while former Pride midfielder Adriana played 90 minutes. Trinity Rodman scored the opening goal five minutes into the match to put the USWNT on top. In the second half, the USWNT earned a penalty kick, and Lindsey Heaps converted from the spot. The USWNT will face Brazil again Tuesday night at PayPal Park.
MLS Weekend Recap
The weekend’s slate of Major League Soccer matches ended with some notable results. Charlotte FC needed two late goals from Wilfried Zaha and Idan Toklomati in the second half to complete a comeback and beat Nashville SC 2-1. The Columbus Crew edged CF Montreal 2-1, while the New York Red Bulls defeated the Chicago Fire 2-1. Real Salt Lake, Sporting Kansas City, and the Vancouver Whitecaps all won 2-0 matches over the LA Galaxy, St. Louis City, and the Colorado Rapids, respectively. San Diego FC cruised to a 3-0 victory over the Seattle Sounders as Chucky Lozano scored his first goal in MLS. FC Cincinnati and the Houston Dynamo won 1-0 over the New England Revolution and LAFC, respectively. Atlanta United and FC Dallas ended in a 1-1 draw, while Austin FC and the Portland Timbers ended scoreless. On Sunday, Minnesota United beat New York City FC 2-1. Josef Martinez scored a hat trick as the San Jose Earthquakes dominated D.C. United 6-1, and the Inter Miami and Toronto FC match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Free Kicks
- Orlando Pride players Sams and Angelina swapped jerseys over the weekend after the international friendly match between the USWNT and Brazil.
- Nashville SC defender Walker Zimmerman was carted off the field in a neck brace following a bicycle kick to the face during the Charlotte FC match on Saturday, but he has been released from the hospital.
- Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne announced on social media Friday he is leaving the club.
- Paris Saint-Germain defeated Angers 1-0 over the weekend to clinch the Ligue 1 title for the 13th time. PSG won the league with six matches remaining.
- Two Americans continue their stellar form in the EFL Championship as Haji Wright scored his fourth goal in three matches for Coventry City in his side’s 2-1 loss to Burnley. Josh Sargent scored his 14th goal of the season for Norwich City in a 2-1 loss to Plymouth Argyle over the weekend.
- Southampton became the first club to be relegated from the Premier League this season after a 3-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur Sunday. With seven matches remaining, the Saints suffered the earliest relegation in Premier League history.
That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday, and I’ll see you next time.
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