Lion Links
Lion Links: 8/1/19
Welcome to the first day of August! After all of the buildup, it’s hard to believe that the Major League Soccer All-Star Game here in Orlando has finally come and gone. I’ve got more on that below, along with the rest of the top stories, so let’s dive right in.
MLS All-Stars Face Off Against Atletico Madrid at Exploria Stadium
We're hosting the #MLSAllStar Game today in @Dwntwn_Orlando.
Who do you think will win: The @MLS All-Stars or @atletienglish? pic.twitter.com/jvrFX31zk9
— City of Orlando (@citybeautiful) July 31, 2019
I know that tweet is old information at this point, but I adore the use of the Lake Eola fountain and swans. In a historic match attended by a who’s who of big wigs (including the governor of Florida himself, Ron DeSantis), the MLS All-Star squad lost to La Liga super club Atletico Madrid 3-0. The lone Lion on the roster, Nani, got the start in a 4-1-4-1 formation. All-Star and Orlando City Head Coach James O’Connor admitted that he didn’t “think there’s time to get too in-depth in regards to tactics.” Atletico midfielder Vitolo was so impressed by the club and city that he endorsed Orlando as a host city for the 2026 World Cup, stating “you can tell it’s a beautiful city and it should be a great event if it’s hosted here.”
Last night’s All-Star Game at Exploria Stadium was the culmination of events that brought Orlando City CEO Alex Leitao full circle.
Lions to Get New Academy Facility
Before last night’s game, Audi and MLS announced a new program to help add resources to MLS teams’ academies, and the first one will land in Orlando. The Audi Goals Drive Progress funding will help build Audi Performance Centers, located at select MLS academies, like Orlando City’s. These centers will be equipped with a vast range of technology, tutorial and educational resources to help enrich off-field academic development. It will give players a place to work on schoolwork, do video study, and get extra off-field instruction from coaches. While the OCSC academy won’t have a full residency program to start with, Orlando City EVP of Soccer Operations Luiz Muzzi said Wednesday that is the long-term goal.
Nani Demonstrates Passion for Helping Others
As Orlando City fans, we’ve seen the class and skill that the team’s first-year captain, Portuguese superstar Nani, has brought both on and off the pitch this season. Life hasn’t always been one of luxury for the man with 13 siblings from a poverty-stricken city, however. Nani discussed his upbringing with ProSoccerUSA.com.
“I grew up with a lot of brothers, a lot of sisters all together, and we had to fight to survive and to get a better life. At the end, we’ve been very lucky with football to give us a different opportunity and a lot of beautiful things in our life. We are all together in my family. I’ve been in that situation before where playing football was the only thing you could do. All we had was that [five-versus-five] pitch to play football.”
Whether it’s returning to Amadora, Portugal to ensure his hometown pitch is preserved or greeting a bus of kids during Orlando City training, Nani is eager to help those around him however he can. He even saw his last-second MLS Skills Challenge winning kick as an opportunity to give back.
10, 9, 8, 7… wait for it… Orlando City Wins the #MLSAllStar skills challenge! I'm very happy for last night's outcome. We played for a single goal: donate the prize money to Orlando City Foundation. Thank you very much for all the support. 🎯🏆🙌🏾#MLS #MLSskills #VamosOrlando pic.twitter.com/bGI5PS3fGl
— Nani (@luisnani) July 31, 2019
City of Orlando Gets a Year Older on All-Star Day
In addition to history being made at Exploria Stadium last night, the city of Orlando celebrated its 144th birthday with tributes to Orlando City SC and the All-Star Game. The club took the opportunity to wish The City Beautiful a happy birthday, a sentiment we here at The Mane Land would like to express as well.
Mayor Buddy Dyer, while rocking an Orlando City jersey emblazoned with “Orlando 144” across the back, stated that he’s “proud to be a resident…of this inclusive, vibrant community,” another sentiment I can certainly get behind. The Orlando Pride also joined in on the love fest for the city the team calls home.
Pride’s Morgan Makes FIFA Short List for Annual Player Award
The nominees for the yearly FIFA top players and coaches across world soccer were revealed by the governing body yesterday. Orlando Pride star striker Alex Morgan is up for Best Women’s Player, alongside three of her United States Women’s National Team teammates — Julie Ertz, Rose Lavelle, and Megan Rapinoe. Rounding out the women’s player list are England’s Lucy Bronze and Ellen White, Norway’s Caroline Graham Hansen and Ada Hegerberg, France’s Amandine Henry and Wendie Renard, Australia’s Sam Kerr, and the Netherlands’ Vivianne Miedema. Make sure to go here to cast your vote for Morgan.
On the men’s side, the list is somewhat familiar, with the likes of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Harry Kane, and my personal favorite, Eden Hazard, receiving nominations. Many of the names up for Best Men’s Coach won’t come as a surprise either. Jill Ellis, who confirmed that she would be stepping down as coach of the USWNT on Tuesday, is of course nominated for Best Women’s Coach. Here’s where you can cast your vote to show Ellis some love.
In other news, the FIFA Council has officially approved the proposal to expand the Women’s World Cup from 24 to 32 teams, effective as of the 2023 tournament.
Free Kicks
- Good vibes only time. Not only is Charlotte fantastic for doing what she did, Orlando City responded in an amazing way.
We love this. 👏
Next time you’re on holiday in Orlando and we have a match, your ticket is on us @KirbyHazard! Just DM us and we got you. #FaceOfCity https://t.co/moFoimK5N0
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) July 31, 2019
- I already know and love Cash Mueller. It’s definitely time for everyone else to appreciate him as much as Orlando City supporters are appreciative of him.
- Rookie Orlando City striker Santiago Patino has been called up to the Colombia Under-23 squad.
- Pierre Da Silva, who’s been out on loan to Club Athletico Paranaense since the beginning of this season, is no longer a Lion, as the club and player have parted ways.
- The Special Olympics hosted its Unified Sports All-Star Match prior to the MLS All-Star game on Wednesday afternoon.
- Adam Grinwis is a superhero. Didn’t we all know that already?
- Apparently, MLS players are prepared to strike over a new collective bargaining agreement if needed.
- Here are five potential replacements for Ellis as coach of the USWNT. Rumored new USWNT General Manager, 99er Kate Markgraf, might have something to say about it though.
- ESPN+ appears close to adding the Bundesliga to its soccer lineup.
- I have to share these two awesome Chelsea clips even if it’s not Chelsea update day. Christian Pulisic netted his first goal as a Blue, on his way to scoring a brace, with this nutmeg. Pedro, not to be outdone by the young guy, added a goal with this ridiculous back-heel volley.
- Finally for VfL Wolfsburg day, here are some shots of the squad’s practice leading up to the last preseason friendly this Saturday. Oh, and there was also this.
Less than one hour to go! 🇺🇸
A huge shoutout to our US partner club @OrlandoCitySC as they host this year's #MLSAllStar game!
A special congratulations to Orlando coach James O'Connor (who will be coaching the all-star squad today) and @luisnani who was selected for the team! https://t.co/4zNofIJczU
— VfL Wolfsburg US (@VfLWolfsburg_US) July 31, 2019
That’s a wrap on a busy day in the soccer universe. Go City!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 5/2/24
The Pride win big, OCSC celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month, USMNT news, and more.
It’s Thursday, Mane Landers. Of course, the name Thursday comes from Thor’s day, and as such, it isn’t a big leap for us to consider it Thorhallsson’s day. Though I suppose that is a bit of a mouthful, so we’ll just keep things the way they are, but do hold Dagur Dan close to your heart today. Also, let us wish a happy birthday to the Orlando Pride’s Luana. Despite the devastating news that dropped about her health earlier this week, we hope that her spirits are high and we wish her nothing but happiness today. It’s also Dagur Dan Thorhallsson’s birthday today, so we’re celebrating him as well. Let’s get to the links.
The Pride Dominate the Courage
The Orlando Pride defeated the North Carolina Courage 4-1 in a midweek match at Inter&Co Stadium. The Pride did indeed dominate the Courage as much as the score line indicates. It was once again the Barbra Banda show, with the Pride’s newest player contributing a brace and an assist on the night. It is the Pride’s fourth straight victory and the undefeated run continues.
OCSC Celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month
Orlando City and the Orlando Pride are doing their part this May to observe Mental Health Awareness Month. The club is sponsoring and attending events and forums available to the general public, as well as holding club staff workshops around promoting mental health. I have to say my favorite is the therapy dogs visits that will be available to the staff. There’s nothing as good for my personal mental health as the joy and unconditional love a dog can bring. If I didn’t have dogs of my own, I’d be really jealous.
The Billionaires Clubs
Orlando City and Orlando Pride owners, the Wilf family, are not the only billionaire owners in the NWSL. There are more and more owners and ownership groups that fall into that category. The influx of more money is a growth opportunity for the league and potentially for those owners. It’s a bit of a “rising tide lifts all boats” mentality for these owners as they do better when the league as a whole does better. It’s not just the owners who think so. The NWSL was ranked No. 5 on the World’s 50 Most Innovative Companies of 2024. I’m just glad the Pride are in the club.
USMNT News
I hate starting off a section with bad news, but Sergino Dest tore his ACL in training with PSV Eindhoven and will miss the Copa America. Dest will require surgery though there is no time frame yet for when he may return. The loss of Dest is a blow to the U.S. defense heading into the competition this coming June. The USMNT plays Bolivia on June 23.
In better news, Tim Weah provided the assist for Juventus on Arkadiusz Milik’s goal against Lazio. Juventus entered the second leg of the Copa Italia semifinal up 2-0, but Lazio drew level before Milik’s goal. Juventus advanced 3-2 on aggregate and will play in the final.
Free Kicks
- Despite Bayern Leverkusen’s 46-match unbeaten run, and winning the Bundesliga title, Roma coach Daniele De Rossi believes his team can defeat the German club in the first leg of the Europa League semifinals on Thursday.
- Borussia Dortmund defeated Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League tie between the two clubs. Dortmund’s Niclas Fullkrug provided the only goal.
- Wrexham AFC owners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have bigger plans for their club than previously suspected. The pair want to potentially increase the capacity of their stadium, SToK Racecourse, to 55,000 seats.
- Never pulled the trigger on the Apple TV+ MLS Season Pass? Now, you can get it for the remainder of the season at a 30% discount. Once you get past the Messi ads the coverage is pretty good.
- Former USWNT player Carli Lloyd is pregnant, though it was a long journey to get there. She shares her story of unexplained infertility and multiple rounds of IVF treatments. Congratulations, Carli.
That will do it for today. There’s plenty more soccer to come this weekend with all three teams playing. Check back for more as we get you ready for those matches. Vamos Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 5/1/24
Mason Stajduhar was arrested, Orlando Pride play at home tonight, Colin Guske discusses his signing, and more.
Welcome to Wednesday and welcome to May, Mane Landers. Don’t forget that the undefeated Orlando Pride are in action tonight, so check back for our match preview and the latest episode of SkoPurp Soccer: An Orlando Pride PawedCast for additional pre-match coverage. In the meantime, let’s get to the links.
Mason Stajduhar Arrested Early Sunday
Orlando City goalkeeper Mason Stajduhar and his wife Tatiana Stajduhar were both arrested on disorderly conduct charges following an incident at a nightclub overnight Saturday in the early hours of Sunday morning. The couple were reportedly disrespectful to the club’s staff and got into an altercation with the security guards. Mason stated he was only resisting the security guards to re-enter the club because the bouncers allegedly hit his wife. Tatiana allegedly pushed the police officers after they arrived, and she was not charged with battery on a law enforcement officer. The couple were released Monday after posting a bond. Orlando City provided the following statement to WESH 2 News:
“The Club is aware that goalkeeper Mason Stajduhar was arrested early Sunday morning. We are currently gathering more information and will have no further comment at this time.”
Orlando Pride Host the North Carolina Courage Tonight
After a 3-2 win on the road last Friday against the Washington Spirit, the Orlando Pride are back in the City Beautiful and will take on the North Carolina Courage tonight. Unbeaten in their six games so far this season, the Pride have also won their past three games and sit fourth in the standings. They’re tied on points with a Courage team that beat the Seattle Reign Saturday. Orlando has scored at least one goal in every match this season. Forward Barbra Banda had a great performance in that win against the Spirit, so hopefully the scoring trend continues tonight for the Pride.
Orlando City/Pride Earn Golden Brick Awards
Have you enjoyed the new food options at the stadium? I know I have, and I’m looking forward to trying even more. The efforts made by Orlando City’s front office to feature more local food and beverage options did not go unnoticed, as the club won the Hospitality & Dining category in the Downtown Orlando Partnership’s 2023 Golden Brick Awards. The Orlando Pride’s 2023 Highway Woman Kit also won the award in the Arts & Culture category. The home jersey was inspired by the work of Mary Ann Carroll, the sole woman in the famed Highwaymen artists from decades ago.
Colin Guske Speaks On Signing First Pro Contract
Orlando City Development Academy player Colin Guske signed his first professional contract with the club last month and spoke on the importance of this moment in his career. The 17-year-old is now on an MLS NEXT Pro contract with Orlando City B, and he has started in nearly every game for the Young Lions this year. Both of Guske’s brothers have also played for Orlando City’s academy over the years, and he thanked his family for helping him reach this point.
“It’s awesome to represent the Guskes,” Colin said. “Thanks to my brothers for always pushing me through early mornings and late nights, always putting in the work, doing video sessions, everything. My sister as well, for always being there for me and my parents, too. They’re always helping me and what was the best for me.”
Free Kicks
- Enjoy all of the sights and sounds from the Pride’s big win over the Spirit in the nation’s capital.
- Spirit defender Anna Heilferty will miss the remainder of the season after suffering an ACL injury in the team’s loss to the Pride.
- American forward Haji Wright scored his 19th goal across all competitions in Coventry City’s 2-1 loss to Ipswich Town. He will have a chance to make it 20 when Coventry hosts Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.
- The Champions League semifinals are underway and Real Madrid and Bayern Munich played to a 2-2 draw in Germany. The second leg will take place on May 8 in Madrid.
That will do it for today. If you can make it out to the stadium tonight to catch the Pride in action, I strongly suggest you do so. Barbra Banda is about to take the NWSL by storm and you’ll want to see it in person. Vamos Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 4/30/24
Luana’s season ends with Hodgkins Lymphoma diagnosis, San Diego linked with Chucky Lozano, U.S. and Mexico withdraw 2027 World Cup bid, and more.
Happy Tuesday, everyone. It was another busy weekend of Orlando soccer, and things aren’t going to slow down anytime soon. May is an absolutely packed month for all three teams, and the games will be coming thick and fast. We have a lot to discuss this morning, so let’s jump into the links.
Luana Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
This week started off with some very sad news, as the Orlando Pride announced on Monday that midfielder Luana has been placed on the Season-Ending Injury list as a result of her being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The Brazilian international is starting chemotherapy treatments with the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. In a statement, Luana thanked both the Brazilian National Team and the Pride for the support she’s been receiving. Seb Hines and Rafaelle also spoke about how the team has been supporting Luana.
San Diego Reportedly Nears Deal for Chucky Lozano
The Athletic’s Tom Bogert has reported that San Diego FC is in advanced talks to sign Chucky Lozano ($) from PSV Eindhoven. The Dutch team is expected to receive a transfer fee in the area of $12 million, and Lozano would likely be the highest-profile player for the expansion team ahead of its maiden Major League Soccer season in 2025. While nothing is official, San Diego is said to be hopeful of getting a deal done before Copa America kicks off this summer.
U.S. and Mexico Withdraw 2027 Women’s World Cup Bid
The United States and Mexico have announced their decision to withdraw a joint bid for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, and instead focus on bidding for the 2031 edition of the tournament. The bid had made it to the final three of the selection process, in addition to a bid from Brazil and a joint effort from Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlowe Cone cited a desire to have more time to prepare while also having the opportunity to learn from the experience of the joint effort of hosting the 2026 World Cup. As far as who will host in 2027, the decision will be made on May 17, with Germany having hosted a Women’s World Cup back in 2011, while Brazil would be the first South American nation to host the tournament.
English Premier League Approves Spending Cap
Premier League teams took the first step towards implementing a spending cap on Monday. While a final vote is still needed to ratify the proposed changes, Monday’s vote gave the green light to start the legal and economic studies needed to change to a spending cap model. The proposed cap would be based on how much the lowest earning Premier League team earns from television rights, and could be implemented for the 2025-2026 season. There were 16 teams that voted in favor of continuing the process of moving towards a salary cap, while Chelsea abstained from voting, and Manchester United, Manchester City, and Aston Villa voted against the motion.
Free Kicks
- The Pride have risen to third in CBSsports.com’s NWSL power rankings.
- Meanwhile, Orlando City is down to 20th in ESPN.com’s MLS power rankings.
- There are a number of Americans playing in midweek games, so make sure you have everything marked down on your calendar.
- Speaking of Americans, Jesse Marsch has been linked with South Korea’s managerial opening.
- Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny have purchased a minority stake in Necaxa.
That does it for me this morning. Vamos Orlando!
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