Lion Links: 10/24/19

We’ve done it, Mane Landers, it’s Friday Eve and we are one day closer to what is supposed to be a rainy weekend that just begs for us to stay in and read. It’s also Shelina Zadorsky’s birthday so let’s wish her a great one! With that, let’s get to the links.

Alex Morgan Announces Pregnancy

Orlando Pride striker Alex Morgan took to social media yesterday, to announce her pregnancy. She and Servando Carrasco will welcome a baby girl in April. Her due date will be just three months before the Tokyo Olympics are set to kick off. According to a report from NBC Sports, a source close to Morgan shared that her goal is to play at the Olympics, though she has not said so publicly. Of course, this will mean Morgan will miss some NWSL matches again in 2020, just one year after Sydney Leroux missed the bulk of the 2019 season on maternity leave.

Orlando Pride Players Nominated for Ballon d’Ors

Marta and Morgan have been nominated for the 2019 Women’s Ballon d’Or trophy. The award recognizes the best performance overall for men and women in professional soccer. Megan Rapinoe won the FIFA Women’s Best Player Award last month, just ahead of Morgan.

The Orlando City Foundation is on a Wellness Mission

Most readers already know that the Orlando City Foundation works to help make the neighboring communities healthy and active for children in high-need areas. In a new series called #WellnessWednesday the organization shares tips and tricks for healthy living. In yesterday’s “Did you know” we learned that handwriting is healthy!

Bob Bradley Named MLS Sigi Schmid Coach of the Year

The LAFC veteran coach has was named the 2019 MLS Sigi Schmid Coach of the Year yesterday. This is the third time he’s won the honor. Nicknamed, “Bob the Builder,” Bradley has shown a knack for guiding new projects to success. He has led the second-year club to historic heights this season, earning a first-round bye and the top seed for the MLS Cup playoffs.

Free Kicks

• FC Cincinnati's Victor Ulloa is reportedly on the verge of joining Inter Miami FC ahead of the South Florida team’s inaugural season.
• Christian Pulisic beat his USMNT teammate Sergino Dest to provide the game-winning assist in the Chelsea vs. Ajax match.

• Orlando City’s Sacha Kljestan had a chance to weigh in on his predictions for last night’s NYCFC vs Toronto FC match.

• Atlanta United’s Josef Martinez has won the AT&T Goal of the Year.

That’s going to do it for me today, Mane Landers. Here’s hoping everyone can get through what’s left of this week safely and easily.