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Intelligence Report: Orlando City vs. Montreal Impact

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5 years ago

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The knockout rounds of the MLS is Back Tournament are upon us, and Orlando City’s opponent tomorrow night is the Montreal Impact. The two teams played twice last season, with Montreal beating Orlando at Exploria Stadium 3-1 in March, only for the Lions to get their revenge in a 3-0 road win in June.

To prepare for this one I spoke to Paul Vance, managing editor of SBNation’s Mount Royal Soccer. As always, Paul provided an in-depth look at how the Impact are doing this year.

The Impact have played eight games so far under new manager Thierry Henry. What is your overall opinion of Henry as a manager so far and how has he changed the team from what you saw in 2019?

Paul Vance: Thierry Henry — I think, first of all, most everyone is happy to have Henry on board, given his stature within the game, however, the same many people would acknowledge the jury’s out in respect of his coaching credentials/achievements, and frankly his team selections have baffled everyone.

One thing I will say is that he’s not frightened to experiment, although some of his ideas leave long-time Impact observers scratching their heads. But maybe that’s why he’s in the hot seat, and we’re observers.

His record so far isn’t great: two wins, three draws, and three losses, and they’ve just about scraped through into the knockout stage of MLS is Back (what a horrible name for a tournament), in which the Impact have not been particularly impressive.

He has changed the team in how he’s asked them to play, mainly a fluid 5-3-2 cum 3-4-3 formation, which has brought only limited dividends. He reverted to a more conventional 4-3-3 for the critical last group game vs. D.C. and managed to scrape through via Saphir Taider’s deflected shot.

Of course there’s no Ignacio Piatti anymore. The coach has brought in Luis Binks, a solid 18-year-old from Tottenham Hotspur. Binks has gone straight into the side at center back and looks a decent prospect so far.

Another signing from Tottenham, DP Victor Wanyama, has operated in central midfield (and also vs. Toronto FC at center back). He is proving to be a big player for the team, but the cohesion in midfield is not yet apparent. So far Henry has tried to accommodate having Wanyama and Samuel Piette in the same midfield, mainly to the detriment of Piette’s game, and it may be that going forward there is room for only one of the pair in the starting lineup.

Bringing in Romell Quioto has been a breath of fresh air and he’s added pace to the attack. The lack of pace is a feature of the squad, and really only Zachary Brault-Guillard (injured vs. D.C. with a hamstring), Orji Okwonkwo and Lassi Lappalianen could be considered ‘fast.’ Lappalainen has had only limited opportunities so far. Bojan, a former Barcelona teammate of Henry’s, was left on the bench vs. Toronto, suggesting he’s not an automatic choice. Many feel they need to see more from the diminutive No. 9, although he was more involved vs D.C. The Impact still need to work out how to get the best from Bojan.

One of the slightly more surprising and eye-grabbing transfers happened right before the season started, when Montreal signed Victor Wanyama. What have you seen from the former Tottenham player and how important will he be to this team?

PV: Wanyama is solid. He plays mainly in a similar role to Piette, but certainly has more in his locker than the Quebecker. Whether both players are accommodated in Henry’s regular selection remains to be seen, but if only one of them plays it looks certain to be the Kenyan. He had knee problems while at Tottenham — probably why he’s ended up in MLS this early in his career. But he anchors the midfield, is incredibly strong in holding players off, and cool on the ball. He likes to keep it simple, and if the Impact can get his midfield partners right, he will end up dictating the pace of many games. Certainly a very good acquisition, but he cannot do it all by himself, of course.

What are two names that Orlando City fans should know going into this one? Who needs to have strong performances for Montreal to advance to the next round?

PV: The whole team will need to perform well for the Impact to advance in any game at the moment. This hasn’t happened at the tournament thus far. The difference in the third match vs. D.C. which they won, was that they fought really hard throughout. After a slow start they came into the game after 10 mins and dominated the rest of the half — even played some good stuff. Possession and passing were good, but didn’t really create much apart from the deflected goal which won the game.

Second half was a different story. D.C. had a greater share of the possession as you would expect from a team chasing the game, but doggedness and sheer determination saw Montreal home.

If by selecting two players to keep an eye on is what you mean by this question, I would have to say, Quioto, who was excellent against Toronto FC. Pacey and always dangerous — especially on the break — he gave the Toronto back line all kinds of problems before going off with 15 mins to play.

The other player I would mention is Finnish international Lappalainen, although he’s been used only very sparingly in the tournament so far. But if given a chance, he may be one to watch.

But since the predictably unpredictable Henry is unlikely to start with him, maybe the biggest threat will be Taider coming from midfield. His performances haven’t been great, but he tends to make things happen and with three goals (two penalties) and an assist in the tournament so far, his confidence should be high.

Are there any players who will not be available for selection due to injury or suspension? What is your projected starting lineup and score prediction? 

PV: I think the Impact squad has a full bill of health. The one major doubt would have been Brault-Guillard, who appeared to ‘do’ his hamstring late on in the game vs. D.C., but just yesterday during his press conference Henry announced he was fit and well, so that’s the right back slot sorted. Rudy Camacho, who probably wouldn’t have started anyway, is back in Montreal, his wife due to give birth.

I mentioned Lappalainen earlier. He’s not carrying an injury, but an injury did hamper his training resumption and therefore he lacks fitness. He appeared in the last six minutes of the opening match, but has not emerged from the bench since. So, he’s unlikely to start but potentially a potent weapon from the bench.

(Note: Projected lineup and score prediction not provided.)

Thanks again to Paul for all of the information on the Impact and vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 6/6/25

Alex Freeman called up for Concacaf Gold Cup, Orlando Pride get ready for the Houston Dash, Orlando City B plays tonight, and more.

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2 hours ago

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June 6, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

Happy Friday! I’ll be spending this weekend celebrating my birthday by beating my friends at mini golf with no mercy but still hope to catch some soccer over the next few days. I’ve also been on a bit of a movie kick and plan on catching Wes Anderson’s new flick at some point soon. But for now, let’s dive into today’s links!

Alex Freeman Called Up For Gold Cup

Orlando City defender Alex Freeman was officially called up by the United States Men’s National Team for the Concacaf Gold Cup this summer. He’s the only Lion who will be at the tournament and is one of seven uncapped USMNT players on the roster. The 20-year-old could receive more playing time than expected, as right back Sergino Dest is not on the roster so that he can recover over the summer. Left back John Tolkin was added to replace Dest, so Freeman has a real shot at making a claim for the position this month. The U.S. will take on Turkey Saturday in the first of two friendlies before its first Gold Cup match against Trinidad & Tobago on June 15.

Orlando Pride Prepares to Host the Houston Dash

With the international break for women’s soccer over, the Orlando Pride return to action Saturday with a home game against the Houston Dash. It should be a great opportunity for the Pride to ease back into the swing of things against a Dash team that’s only scored 10 goals this season. Pride midfielder Ally Lemos spoke on the benefit of being able to rest heading into this match while maintaining a winning mindset from a 3-1 victory on May 23.

Anna Moorhouse Called Up For 2025 Euros

Orlando Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse was named to England’s final roster for the 2025 UEFA European Women’s Championship. She’s one of three goalkeepers on the squad following Mary Earp’s surprise retirement from international soccer, and she will likely compete with fellow uncapped player Khiara Keating for the backup position behind Hannah Hampton. Moorhouse has started in every game for the Pride this season and was an NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year finalist for her record-breaking season last year. England’s Euro run will begin July 5 against France before other group matches against the Netherlands and Wales.

Orlando City B Takes On Huntsville City FC

The Young Lions are riding high after a 2-1 win over Chattanooga FC and will take that momentum into tonight’s road match against Huntsville City FC. Midfielder Noah Levis scored his first career goal in that home win, with Justin Hylton providing the assist in his OCB debut. Orlando’s offense has been hot and cold this season but has a variety of attacking talent that can create chances in different ways. The Young Lions have only won once on the road, but a win tonight would lift them to third in the Eastern Conference.

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  • FIFA Club World Cup action is coming to the City Beautiful this month and Orlando City legend Kaká spoke on how it’s nice for Orlando to host games.
  • San Diego Wave Head Coach Jonas Eidevall was named NWSL Coach of the Month. The Wave were undefeated in May, winning three of their four matches to climb to second in the league standings.
  • The NWSL will allow intraleague loans for all teams, with the players needing to consent to the move in order for it to happen. Denver and Boston’s expansion teams will have access to potentially over $1 million in Allocation Money starting on July 1 to build their rosters before the 2026 season.
  • Atletico Madrid is reportedly close to signing American midfielder Johnny Cardoso from Real Betis.
  • South Korea, Uzbekistan, and Jordan all qualified for the 2026 World Cup, while China was eliminated from contention. Australia beat Japan 1-0 and will qualify so long as it doesn’t lose heavily to Saudi Arabia on June 10.
  • Spain beat France 5-4 in a wild game to reach the UEFA Nations League final against Portugal on Sunday. Lamine Yamal continues to take the world by storm, but a late rally by France nearly completed a comeback.

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

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 6/5/25

MLS All-Star voting update, Kerry Abello shines with USWNT, Sergio Zapata earns recognition, and more.

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1 day ago

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June 5, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Jeremy Reper

How’s it going, Mane Landers? I hope this week has been treating you well as we enjoy some international soccer and prepare for the return of NWSL action this weekend. Before we jump right into today’s links, let’s all wish a happy birthday to Orlando City B midfielder Dylan Judelson!

Pair of Lions Lead MLS All-Star Voting

Voting for this year’s MLS All-Star Game remains underway and an update was provided on which players are leading at each position. Orlando City defender Alex Freeman leads all right backs as he enjoys a breakout season. I was aware of the buzz he’s been getting this year, but it’s still surprising to see a Lion as an All-Star frontrunner. What’s even more surprising is that Pedro Gallese leads the voting for goalkeepers. The Peruvian made a rough gaffe last week, but has otherwise had a stellar season with Orlando that’s included seven clean sheets. Voting will close on June 11, so make sure to get those votes in before then.

Kerry Abello Impresses With USMNT

Orlando Pride defender Kerry Abello made her first appearance for the United States Women’s National Team Tuesday, playing every minute of the 4-0 win over Jamaica. The versatility she’s shown with the Pride translated well in Head Coach Emma Hayes’ system, as she was able to hold things down defensively and contribute to the attack as well. Abello could end up bringing solid depth to the USWNT as Hayes figures out the team’s future core of players. Enjoy this video from the USWNT that provides a look behind the scenes of Abello’s international debut.

Sergio Zapata Named Player of the Month

Sergio Zapata scored a whopping 11 goals for Orlando City’s U-19 team over the course of just four matches in May, winning the honor of MLS NEXT Player of the Month. He had three hat tricks last month, including one against Hoosier Premier at MLS NEXT Fest. Zapata committed to Cornell, so hopefully we’ll get to see him tear it up in the Ivy League over the next couple of years.

Zack Steffen Sustains Knee Injury

Goalkeeper Zack Steffen injured his knee at the United States Men’s National Team’s training camp and will reportedly miss this summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup. It’s rough news for the 30-year-old, as he was expected to compete with Matt Turner for the starting job with the USMNT. He’s been having a great season with the Colorado Rapids and returned to the club for further evaluation on the injury.

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That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 6/4/25

USWNT wins as Abello gets first cap, Orlando Pride’s Concacaf W Champions Cup draw, Club World Cup in Orlando, and more.

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2 days ago

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June 4, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. Tuesday was a busy soccer day, especially on the women’s side. We have plenty of Orlando Pride news, and the USWNT secured yet another victory. I’m hoping the good vibes continue since I’ll be coming down to Orlando for the Pride’s match this Saturday. If you’re going to the match, let me know, as I’d love to meet as many of our readers as possible. For now, let’s get to the links.

USWNT Blanks Jamaica

The USWNT defeated Jamaica 4-0 in a friendly at Energizer Park in St. Louis. The Orlando Pride’s Kerry Abello got her first start and her first cap in the match. She went the full 90 minutes and almost had her first international goal in the second half, but the chance went a bit wide of the right post. Ally Sentnor and Lynn Biyendolo each scored a brace as the U.S. rolled to an easy win.

Pride Internationals

Abello wasn’t the only Pride player to make an international appearance. Marta returned to international duty for Brazil getting the start and the captain’s armband in a 2-1 win over Japan. Both Grace Chanda and Barbra Banda started for Zambia in the 2-0 loss to South Africa in the Three Nations Challenge. Congratulations are also due to Zara Chavoshi, who earned her first cap with the Canadian Women’s National Team in the match against Haiti.

Concacaf W Champions Cup Draw

The Concacaf W Champions Cup draw happened yesterday and the Orlando Pride are in Group A with Club America Femenil, CF Pachuca Femenil, LD Alajuelense, and Chorrillo FC. Group B consists of NJ/NY Gotham FC, the Washington Spirit, CF Monterrey Femenil, Vancouver Rise FC Academy, and Alianza Women FC. The competition kicks off Aug. 19-21.

FIFA Loves Orlando

FIFA President Gianni Infantino sat for an interview with Jamie Seh of WKMG Orlando. Infantino spoke about the upcoming Club World Cup matches at Inter&Co Stadium and Camping World Stadium. FIFA loves Orlando enough for the city to host the Club World Cup, but not the actual World Cup. Here is the schedule for the matches in Orlando. We will be bringing you coverage of these matches.

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That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for the return of the Orlando Pride this weekend. Vamos Orlando!

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