Lion Links: 5/22/19

Good morning, Mane Landers! We’re halfway through the week, which means we’re on the downward slope to the match this Friday. These last two weeks of school are dragging for me, but I hope you’re having a great week. Before we get to the news of the day, let’s wish the Pride’s Kristen Edmonds a happy birthday.

João Moutinho and Danilo Acosta Happy to Compete for Minutes

ProSoccerUSA.com reported that Moutinho and Acosta are embracing the competition for for minutes on the left side of the pitch.

“I think we make each other better, for sure,” Moutinho said of Acosta. “He’s obviously a very good player. He’s been helping me a lot and I think I’ve been helping him a lot. I definitely think it’s a healthy competition.”

Acosta shared that he feels like he has his defending down, but needs to work more on his attacking. The two agree that without a strong person to compete with, they wouldn’t be pushed to their limits.

Orlando Pride Loan Deal Denied

An attempt to bring a center back from English Women’s Super League side Chelsea FC Women to the Pride was reportedly denied by the NWSL. Both teams agreed to the terms of the contract, but the NWSL wasn’t thrilled with the recall clause.

Sydney Leroux is Bad as a Mother

Could this be the answer to my screen-time needs? After Game of Thrones coming to an end I’ve fallen back in to the comfort of watching The Office on repeat. I loathe reality TV (I know, people seem really upset about that when I share it in person. too), but I would watch this family sit in silence. Yesterday Sydney Leroux took to Instagram and Twitter to share a teaser for the new series premiering May 28 through Facebook Watch.

Women’s World Cup Facing Ticketing Issues

The New York Times reported on a ticketing issue that has families sitting away from each other. Earlier this week, FIFA released the thousands of tickets fans had purchased to attend the event. After logging in to print their tickets, fans quickly realized that their seats are all over the place. FIFA seems less than eager to correct their ticketing mistake, stating fans could head to the stadium early and try to switch with other fans.

Free Kicks

• The U.S. Women’s National team could be playing at Audi Field.
• The five biggest surprises from the preliminary USMNT Gold Cup roster.
• Christian Pulisic was seen in Chelsea blue da ba de da ba di.
• Two OCB players make League One Team of the Week.
• Mason Stajduhar made the USL Championship Team of the Week while on loan, along with former Lion Amobi Okugo.
• USMNT dates to host Cuba, Canada revealed.
• The Orlando Seawolves re-signed defender Richard Schmermund.
• Nani and Tesho Akindele rise in the MLS Player Power Rankings.
• Sebas Mendez has been called up for Copa America.
• There’s a new shirt celebrating Ali Krieger’s 100 USWNT caps.

That feels like a lot of news. I feel like I’m usually grasping for links. That’s going to do it for me, Mane Landers. Enjoy the rest of your week and I’ll see you in 118 on Friday! Stay tuned throughout the day for coverage of OCB’s home match against Richmond tonight.