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Lion Links: 2/16/20

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5 years ago

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Happy Sunday, Mane Landers. It’s week two of the Central Florida Soccer League spring season, and likely I’m off playing as you read. I managed an assist in our club’s 2-1 loss last week — my first match and full 90 minutes in about six or seven months (torn ligaments in an ankle) — so while it was nice seeing the pitch again, the result sure did leave a sour taste in my mouth. Hopefully today’s bout will go much better. Hopefully.

Regardless, let’s just hop into Sunday’s Links, shall we?

Orlando City Falls to D.C. United in Tampa

The University of South Florida, based in the Tampa area, played host to Orlando City SC and D.C. United yesterday in a closed-door preseason match. The next preseason match will take place on Tuesday at Exploria Stadium vs. KR Reykjavik. The match against D.C. United ended with a 1-0 loss for the Lions. Here’s the game’s only goal:

But the real story, unfortunately, was the potential season-ending injury to D.C.’s Paul Arriola. A torn ACL is suspected, and I just can’t help but feel downright awful if that’s the case. Sending positive energy your way, Paul.

Oscar Pareja spoke about the match afterwards.

Brian Rowe Still Wants to Start

Despite the major acquisition of Peru’s No. 1 Pedro Gallese, Brian Rowe, last year’s starter, is still battling Gallese for the starting duties and hoping to impress the club’s coaching staff. Rowe, a seasoned veteran of MLS play, simply sees his new competition as another challenge to overcome.

“Entering my ninth season in this league, I can wholeheartedly say that I want to play every single game,” Rowe said. “That’s just the competitiveness in me. Coming off of a year like last year where I felt very good, I want to still improve and and build on that.”

Personally, I love it. The competition will only serve as a catalyst for both players to step up their game. Competition is natural, and while they’re teammates, they’re still fighting for that honor. The job is obviously Gallese’s for the taking, but who knows, maybe Rowe will surprise us all (but I doubt it).

2020 Olympics: MLS Players Who Could Gain Notoriety

With the Summer Olympics quickly descending upon us, there will be countless MLS players who have everything to gain from a strong outing. Most notably, Orlando City’s and Canada’s Kamal Miller made the list. Miller, still only 22 years old, could gain some valuable experience during the tournament. Miller’s quite versatile, having the skills necessary to help on the back line, in the midfield, and apparently in Canada’s eyes, on the flanks in attack. The young Canuck has a lot to prove at both the club and international level, so we can only hope he steps up to the plate and delivers. Other Canadian MLSers who have much to gain include Theo Blair (Vancouver Whitecaps), Ballou Tabla (Montreal Impact), and Liam Frasier (Toronto FC). Meanwhile, the American MLSers named included Mason Toye (Minnesota United FC), Jesus Ferreira (FC Dallas), Jonathan Lewis (Colorado Rapids), Brenden Aaronson (Philadelphia Union), and Derrick Jones (Nashville SC). Check the link for a few honorable mentions, too!

Chicharito Makes his Galaxy Debut

I hate to beat a dead horse, because that’s what covering Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez’s induction into MLS has felt like, but the Mexican striker made his first official appearance for the LA Galaxy yesterday against Toronto FC. The new striker wore the armband in this one, but failed to put one in the back of the net as the Galaxy fell to Toronto, 2-1. Cristian Pavón did score a nice goal for the Galaxy, but it wasn’t enough, as Ifunanyachi Achara and Alejando Pozuelo both netted for the Reds (despite the Galaxy’s graphic being incorrect) to down the Galaxy.

Free Kicks

  • I’m starting off our Free Kicks with this one because, well, Jozy makes one hell of a point.

  • The Reds…they just keep on marching. Yesterday, the inevitable Premier League champions beat Norwich, 1-0, bringing their season total of points to 76 of a possible 78. They’ve also already mathematically qualified for next year’s Champion’s League. You’ll Never Walk Alone! This outstanding save from Alisson speaks volumes about their season.

  • Meanwhile, Manchester City and their future is in major peril, and we could witness a max exodus this summer following their European ban. This will be a strange one with appeals and constant rumors and updates, so keep your ear close to the ground when it comes to the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling, Pep Guardiola, and company.
  • In Spain, Eden Hazard is finally making his return to Real Madrid’s squad following his recovery from an ankle injury that’s held him out since November. Hopefully, for everyone’s sake, he can find his form and make an impact for the table-topping Madrid club.
  • In case anyone was wondering, NBA phenom and reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo is #TeamMadrid. ¡Hala Madrid!

  • Only one more on NBA players, I promise. Check out Joel Embiid and Jimmy Butler with the tekkers before an NBA All-Star practice! Consider me impressed.

  • Just a reminder (not that you need one): GOAT.

  • And we’ll end with a spectacular showing of solidarity among some XFL fans. I mean, I’m beyond impressed with this dedication. The league isn’t looking too shabby itself, either. Hopefully it’ll stick around this time.

All right folks, that’s it from me for the day. Enjoy your Sunday and have an excellent week!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 1/21/25

Orlando Pride release preseason camp roster, scouting Costa Rica, women’s soccer transfer grades, and more.

Published

16 hours ago

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January 21, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Good morning, everyone! If you had yesterday off for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, then I hope you enjoyed some restful time off. If not, then I hope you got your week started off on a good and productive note. There’s a lot going on around here this week as the United States Men’s National Team is in town, and Orlando City will play its first preseason match on Saturday. That means we have plenty to discuss, so let’s dig into today’s links.

Orlando Pride Drop Preseason Roster

Monday might have been a holiday but the Orlando Pride were busy, as they announced the roster for their upcoming preseason camp. Almost all of the usual suspects from the 2024 season are back, as the Pride return 98% of the player-minutes from last season and every single scorer. Mariana Larroquette is on the list although she’s currently on loan in Argentina, and Amanda Allen is likewise included after her loan at Lexington Sporting Club was terminated due to a torn labrum. The biggest intrigue comes from the trio of non-roster invitees: goalkeeper DeAira Jackson, midfielder Aryssa Mahrt, and forward Simone Jackson.

Scouting Costa Rica

The USMNT takes on Costa Rica on Wednesday at Inter&Co Stadium to wrap up the team’s annual January camp. Like the U.S., Costa Rica is bringing a roster devoid of the majority of its important players. Costa Rica also has a new manager at the helm in Miguel Herrera, who will take charge of the team for the very first time on Wednesday. Herrera typically lines his teams up in a 5-3-2 where the wingbacks take on a very important role and the team looks to hit on the counter while staying compact at the back. This will be the last time we see the USMNT in action until the Concacaf Nations League semifinals in early March.

Women’s Soccer January Transfer Grades

January has been a busy time for transfers in the women’s soccer world, so which teams have done the best business? Well, the Orlando Pride received an A grade for signing Marta to a new two-year deal, retaining a player who helped the team win its first ever trophies. Liverpool got an A for signing Julia Bartel on loan from Chelsea. Leicester City made an interesting call by transferring goalkeeper Lize Kop to Tottenham despite just being a point above the relegation zone. The Foxes get a C for the move, while Spurs get a B+ for adding a capable netminder.

Americans in Midweek Action

There are a number of Americans taking part in some very important games over the course of this week. Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Juventus face Club Brugge today in the UEFA Champions League, while Ricardo Pepi, Richy Ledezma, Esmir Bajraktarević, Malik Tillman and PSV Eindhoven take on Crvena Zvezda in the same competition. Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah, and AC Milan will play Girona in the UCL on Wednesday, while Cameron Carter-Vickers, Auston Trusty, and Celtic take on Young Boys. On Friday, John Tolkin could make his Bundesliga debut when his new team, Holstein Kiel, travels to face Wolfsburg.

Free Kicks

  • Orlando Pride players reported for their preseason physicals on Monday.
  • Meanwhile, Orlando City took on the dreaded beep test during Monday’s training session.

That’s all I have for you today. Vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links: 1/20/25

Orlando City signs Nicolas Rodriguez, Jack Lynn announces retirement, USMNT defeats Venezuela in friendly, and more.

Published

2 days ago

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January 20, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Hello, Mane Landers! I hope you’re all having a good holiday weekend as we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Over the past week, I’ve been working and covering high school ice hockey. It will be a busy week in Orlando, with the United States Men’s National Team’s match against Costa Rica on Wednesday and Orlando City’s first preseason match against Atletico Mineiro on Saturday. We’ve got plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.

Orlando City Signs Nicolas Rodriguez

Orlando City announced on Friday that the club has signed forward Nicolas Rodriguez from Fortaleza CEIF in Colombia’s top flight. The deal is through the 2027 season, with a club option for 2028, and Rodriguez will occupy a MLS U22 Initiative slot. Rodriguez made 19 appearances for Fortaleza, recording 1,607 minutes, five goals, and three assists during the 2024 Primera A Clausura season. The Lions add a young attacking player the club can develop and Rodriguez can play on the right wing, the right side of a three-man midfield, or in the No. 10 spot.

Jack Lynn Announces Retirement

Orlando City forward Jack Lynn announced his retirement from professional soccer on Saturday. Lynn was drafted by Orlando in the first round of the 2022 MLS SuperDraft. He became a regular starter for Orlando City B, scoring a team-record 38 goals in over three seasons with the MLS NEXT Pro side. Lynn also won the Golden Boot with 19 goals during the 2023 season and became the first OCB player to be named MLS NEXT Pro MVP. He played sparingly with the first team, but he scored twice last season as his role increased. The Lions will likely look to add another striker for more depth up top.

Orlando Pride Acquire Allocation Money in Trade

On Friday, the Orlando Pride announced that the club has acquired $50,000 in Allocation Money from the Washington Spirit. In exchange, the Pride sent the Spirit a 2025 international roster spot. The Pride will face the Spirit in the NWSL Challenge Cup final on March 7 at Inter&Co Stadium.

USMNT Defeats Venezuela in Friendly

The USMNT defeated Venezuela 3-1 at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday in a friendly. Jack McGlynn and Patrick Agyemang scored in the first half to give the USMNT a 2-0 lead just before halftime. Matko Milijevic scored the third goal for the Americans in the second half, with Venezuela pulling one back thanks to a goal from Jorge Yriarte. Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino has led the USMNT to winning four out of its first five matches since he took charge last September. The USMNT’s next match will be against Costa Rica on Wednesday at Inter&Co Stadium.

Alyssa Naeher Named U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year

On Saturday, goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher was voted 2024 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year. Naeher won 40% of the vote, while defender Naomi Girma finished in second with 32%. In her final year with the USWNT, Naeher ended 2024 with 18 starts, playing 1,170 minutes and only conceding 11 goals. She played a crucial role with clutch saves to help the USWNT win the 2024 SheBelieves Cup, 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup, and gold at the Olympics in Paris. Naeher is the second goalkeeper to win the award since Hope Solo won it in 2009.

Free Kicks

  • Manchester City forward Erling Haaland has reached an agreement with the club on a record-breaking contract that extends his deal through 2034.

That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday, and I’ll see you next time.

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Lion Links: 1/17/25

Orlando Pride loan out Mariana Larroquette, USMNT gets ready for Venezuela, MLS transfer news, and much more.

Published

5 days ago

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January 17, 2025

By

Image courtesy of Orlando City B / Mark Thor

Happy Friday! Maybe it’s just because I’m a San Jose Sharks fan when it comes to hockey, but I sure do miss being able to watch Orlando City and the Orlando Pride win games. Thankfully it won’t be much longer until Orlando’s soccer teams are back in action, although I wish the Lions would make some moves to get us excited for 2025. Let’s dive into today’s links!

Mariana Larroquette Heads to Argentina on Loan

The Pride have loaned forward Mariana Larroquette to Newell’s Old Boys Women in Argentina. The loan lasts through July 1, so Larroquette may still provide some attacking depth for the Pride later in the season. This should be a good opportunity for her to get some minutes in her home country after only making four appearances for the Pride last season. Larroquette joined the Pride back in July of 2023 on a contract through 2025, so this is a solid chance for her to get some consistent playing time to showcase her talent before her current contract ends.

USMNT Prepares for Friendly Against Venezuela

The United States Men’s National Team will play its first game of 2025 when it takes on Venezuela Saturday at 3 p.m. in Fort Lauderdale. This is just the seventh meeting between the two nations, with Venezuela winning the most recent match 3-0 back in 2019. Goalkeeper Wuilker Farinez started for Venezuela in that shutout and is expected to get the nod in goal again, with Orlando City’s Javier Otero backing him up. The Yanks will be without multiple players who were called up, as Jesus Ferreira, John Tolkin, Jalen Neal, and Drake Callender will no longer be available. The USMNT will be back in action on Wednesday for a friendly against Costa Rica at Inter&Co Stadium.

Catching Up On MLS Transfer News

Every MLS team apart from Orlando City seems to be making major moves in preparation for the 2025 season. Austin FC is reportedly signing Albanian forward Myrto Uzuni as a Designated Player, which would trigger a $12.3 million release clause in his contract with Granada. Uzuni has scored 14 goals in 18 appearances for the Spanish club this season. Austin also added midfielder Nicolas Dubersarsky from Instituto in Argentina’s top flight. He will be a U22 Initiative Player and signed a five-year contract with the club.

New York Red Bulls left back John Tolkin was officially transferred to Holstein Kiel in the Bundesliga for a reported $3 million transfer fee. The New England Revolution continued to strengthen their attack, signing veteran forward Maxi Urruti to a one-year deal with an option for 2026. Atlanta United and Middlesbrough have reportedly reached a verbal agreement on a deal for forward Emmanuel Latte Lath, although Atlanta still has to finalize personal terms with him.

Chelsea Reportedly Leads Race for Naomi Girma

One of the biggest questions this NWSL off-season is whether or not San Diego Wave defender Naomi Girma will remain with the club. The 24-year-old is under contract through 2026, but European teams are reportedly willing to pay up to secure her talents. Chelsea is the reported frontrunner, with Arsenal and Lyon also in the mix to sign her. Girma is one of the best defenders in the world and was a major reason behind the United States Women’s National Team winning Olympic gold last year. Speaking of Girma, she will not be in attendance for the USWNT training camp in Florida due to a minor injury.

Free Kicks

  • Orlando Pride Vice President of Soccer Operations and Sporting Director Haley Carter followed through on her promise to dye her hair after a historic season.
  • In news that impacts Orlando City duo Pedro Gallese and Wilder Cartagena, Jorge Fossati is no longer Peru’s head coach. Peru only won one of its six CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers with Fossati at the helm and is last in the standings.
  • Former Lion Chris Mueller spoke on the importance of mental health and the resources available to help.

That’s all I have for you this Friday. I hope you all have a fantastic day and rest of your weekend!

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