Lion Links
Lion Links: 8/3/20
Merry Moutinho morning, Mane Landers! It’s a new week and Orlando City is still in this thing. How cool, crazy, and awesome is that? Those of you that listen to The ManeLand PawedCast know that I predicted a 3-1 loss, and I have never been more happy to be wrong. I’m not saying that match makes up for the year that is 2020, but it certainly helps a little. Especially if you’ve watched the highlights and celebrations over and over again like I have. Let’s get to the links!
Semifinal Stories
Neither club was supposed to be here. Neither Orlando City nor Minnesota United FC were expected to be in the MLS is Back Tournament semifinals. Yet, here they are, set to face off on Thursday, Aug. 6. The hometown team with the new coach, and the old coach with his new team. The stories practically write themselves, with Adrian Heath and Kevin Molino returning to the very fields they dominated on in the USL days. Now, it’s the new coach defending the city, with Oscar Pareja bringing a new culture and sense of purpose.
I’ll be honest, I don’t like this match being referred to as the Adrian Heath Derby, because the former gaffer is not on both sides of this thing. Of course, Heath is all too aware of the challenge both teams will face this Thursday. I would take issue with the projections, but given how wrong FiveThirtyEight has been so far regarding the Lions, I’m fine with it. Oh, and there’s also a preview of the Philadelphia Union and Portland Timbers match.
The Stakes
I’ve been so focused on each match (or worried, nervous, and then elated) that I haven’t really thought much about what is at stake in the MLS is Back Tournament. The group stage points counted towards the regular season and the winner of the tournament earns a Concacaf Champions League bid. I will admit I forgot about the $1 million in bonuses and other awards. It’s just that it is important to remember that pride and showing the league how far Orlando City has come aren’t the only reasons for the Lions to try to win the whole darn thing. For the Lions, a spot in the 2021 Concacaf Champions League would be a huge step forward.
“That would mean history,” Orlando City midfielder Uri Rosell said. “I think that’s something that we really want to do and we want to feel the ownership for all the people that have worked really hard on the club, and also the fans, something to look up to and something that they deserve. Hopefully, we can give our best and try to be in this position where we can give it to them.”
João Moutinho’s Masterful Match
I gave João Moutinho Man of the Match honors for his performance against Los Angeles FC. It seems I wasn’t the only one to think it was warranted. Former Orlando City goalkeeper and current Orlando City broadcaster Miguel Gallardo breaks down why Moutinho was the best player for the Lions.
João's star of the match performance was about more than just his goal on Friday night. #ORLvLAFC | #VamosOrlando pic.twitter.com/PSGVha0HP5
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) August 2, 2020
As Miguel notes, it wasn’t just the goal that was great about the young defender’s game. His play up and down the pitch was a big reason Orlando City stifled the potent LAFC offense.
USMNT News
As mentioned in yesterday’s Lion Links, Christian Pulisic scored a goal and also pulled a hamstring. Talk about highs and lows. Of course, Pulisic wasn’t the only Yank in action over the weekend. Mix Diskerud played 90 minutes for Helsingborg against Aron Johannsson’s Hammarby.
Additionally, former U.S. Youth Men’s National Team player Haji Wright signed with Danish Superliga club SønderjyskE Fodbold. The 22-year-old spent time in the German Bundesliga and Eredivisie in the Netherlands, but is looking to finally break out with SønderjyskE.
Free Kicks
- There is potential good news on the Orlando City injury front. According to Julia Poe from the Orlando Sentinel, both Chris Mueller and Robin Jansson are recovering and are hoped to be available for the semifinal match against Minnesota United.
Got a small update on Chris Mueller and Robin Jansson, both of whom exited the match against LAFC with injuries — they're both feeling better and the team is optimistic about their availability for Thursday. No more specifics on what their injuries were at this time.
— Julia Poe (@jpoe24601) August 2, 2020
- Are you still loving that Nani celebration? Do you want to have that same feeling day after day? This is just the shirt to let you do that. Stylish, celebratory, and comfy, it’s just the thing to wear to make everyone jealous as you support Orlando City.
- Don’t let the photo in this story fool you, the Orlando Magic are supportive of Orlando City. Indeed, Magic Head Coach Steve Clifford was checking the score during Orlando’s win as he prepared for the Orlando Magic’s game against the Sacramento Kings.
That will do it to start the week. There are only three days until Orlando City takes the field again. I’m not saying it has anything to do with it, but I did get my new jersey the day of the first group stage match, and I’ve worn it for each match since. I don’t believe in superstitions, but just to be safe, I haven’t even washed it yet. Can’t be too cautious, right? Go City!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 10/21/24
Orlando City and Orlando Pride lose, Orlando City B eliminated from playoffs, Seb Hines discusses diversity in soccer, and more.
Hello, Mane Landers! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I just finished setting up broadcasting for the NISA championship match in California over the weekend. This week, I’m back to staying busy at Under Armour and covering high school sports. It was a rough weekend for Orlando’s soccer teams, and we have plenty to cover today. Let’s get to the links!
Lions Fall to Atlanta United at Home on Decision Day
Orlando City fell 2-1 to Atlanta United on Saturday at Inter&Co Stadium on Decision Day. The Lions trailed 2-0 early in the first half before Martin Ojeda pulled one back for Orlando just before halftime. The Lions thought they had a late equalizer from Duncan McGuire, but the referee overturned the goal after a video review. The loss ended Orlando’s three-match winning streak, but it still clinched fourth place in the Eastern Conference as New York City FC lost to CF Montreal. Orlando’s next match will be in the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs at home against Charlotte FC on Sunday.
Orlando Pride Lose to NJ/NY Gotham FC on the Road
The Orlando Pride lost their second straight match with a 3-1 defeat on the road to NJ/NY Gotham FC on Sunday at Red Bull Arena. The Pride were down 1-0 early in the first half before Adriana converted a penalty to tie things up. Gotham added two goals from Rose Lavelle and Ella Stevens to seal the victory and extend its unbeaten streak to seven matches. The Pride’s next game will be on Nov. 2 at home when they face the Seattle Reign in their final match of the regular season.
Seb Hines Speaks on Diversity in Soccer
BBC Sport interviewed Pride Head Coach Seb Hines after the club won its first NWSL Shield. Hines discussed how he’s helped reshape the club’s culture and advocates for more opportunities for black coaches in the sport alongside assistant coaches Giles Barnes and Yolanda Thomas.
“Being a trailblazer comes with a big responsibility because I want to advocate for more black coaches and diversity within the sport.
“It’s a responsibility to fight for more equality globally. It’s less about winning and more about breaking those barriers. I want to continue to give hope to others.”
Thomas, who joined the Pride’s coaching staff in 2023, also spoke on her passion to drive change and how she was inspired by former England manager Hope Powell.
OCB Eliminated from MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs
Orlando City B was eliminated from postseason play after losing 5-4 on penalties to Chicago Fire FC II following a 1-1 draw at SeatGeek Stadium in the MLS NEXT Pro playoffs . The Young Lions got off to a great start with a goal from Jack Lynn to take the lead in the first half. However, scored an equalizer just before halftime. After 90 minutes and extra time, the game went to penalties, where both teams exchanged goals until sudden death. OCB’s Favian Loyola missed his penalty, while Jean Diouf scored to send Chicago into the conference semifinals. OCB missed out on a chance to get its first postseason win and its 2024 season came to an end.
Orlando City and Pride Announce Hurricane Relief Efforts
Orlando City and the Pride announced hurricane relief effort plans over the weekend so fans can get involved and support those in need following Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. The club also announced that the Wilf Family Foundations contributed $450,000 towards relief efforts, with $350,000 going to the American Red Cross and $100,000 to Heart of Florida United Way, a charity partner for the Pride.
Free Kicks
- Check out Orlando City’s hype video on social media leading up to its playoff match.
- Major League Soccer has reportedly not surpassed the needed number of MLS Season Pass subscriptions in its deal with Apple to trigger the revenue share agreement.
- Inter Miami forward Luis Suarez is reportedly in talks with the club about extending his contract.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced that Inter Miami will play in the 2025 Club World Cup, joining the Seattle Sounders as the only MLS clubs in the competition. Miami will host the opening match at Hard Rock Stadium on July 15.
- Arsenal U-18 manager and former England midfielder Jack Wilshere is reportedly set to leave the club to join EFL Championship side Norwich City as its new manager.
That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday and I’ll see you next time.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 10/18/24
Option exercised on Summer Yates’ contract, Orlando Pride prepare for NJ/NY Gotham FC, Emily Sams called up, and more.
Happy Friday! It’s been a long week, but we’ve made it. We’re rewarded with a thrilling slate of Orlando soccer that begins when Orlando City hosts Atlanta United on Decision Day. Orlando City B also kicks off its playoff campaign Sunday before the Orlando Pride take on NJ/NY Gotham FC. Plan your weekend accordingly and have some fun out there!
Pride Exercise Summer Yates Contract Option
The Orlando Pride and midfielder Summer Yates agreed to exercise the option on her contract to keep her at the club through 2026. The Pride selected Yates in the fourth round of the 2023 NWSL Draft in what was quite the coup for the club. The 24-year-old has scored five goals this season, including three winners to help the Pride gain valuable points en route to winning the NWSL Shield. She just signed a new contract with the club in July and it seems the club has wasted no time securing her talents for 2026.
Orlando Pride Prepare for Gotham
For the first time this year, the Orlando Pride will aim to bounce back from a loss when they take on NJ/NY Gotham FC Sunday. With the top seed in the playoffs locked up, this will be the Pride’s final road game of the year. Sunday’s match is a heavyweight showdown between two of the league’s top teams, as Gotham sits third in the standings and hasn’t lost since the Pride beat the defending champs 2-0 in Orlando on Sept. 1. Pride Head Coach Seb Hines spoke on how the team is getting ready for this match while keeping the postseason in mind.
Emily Sams Called Up for USWNT Friendlies
Orlando Pride defender Emily Sams was one of 26 players called up for the United States Women’s National Team’s training camp this month ahead of friendlies against Iceland and Argentina. Sams could make her first USWNT appearance this month, although she did receive a gold medal for being on a game day roster at this summer’s Olympics. She’s been one of the best players in the NWSL this year, so it’s great to see her called up by USWNT Head Coach Emma Hayes. Of those called up, 14 players have fewer than 20 appearances with the USWNT, including forward Emma Sears, defender Eva Gaetino, and midfielder Olivia Moultrie. Forward Jaedyn Shaw is also back after missing out on playing in the Olympics due to an injury right before the tournament began.
Man Charged With Arson at Orlando City Game
Federal prosecutors announced that Giovanni Isai Ramirez Reyes has been charged with arson for releasing two flares into the supporters’ section at Orlando City’s home game against CF Montreal in this season’s opener. A child suffered burns as a result of the incident according to the indictment, and Orlando City stated it’s been working with law enforcement to identify those responsible. The arrest was made earlier this week and Ramirez Reyes pleaded not guilty to the charges. He faces up to 40 years in federal prison if convicted.
Free Kicks
- Kansas City Current midfielder Desiree Scott will retire once this season is over after a career that’s included three stints playing in Kansas City.
- Here’s a breakdown of the playoff scenarios heading into the penultimate week of the NWSL regular season. Bay FC and the Portland Thorns can clinch the final playoff spots this weekend.
- The Levine Leichtman family has completed its acquisition of the San Diego Wave from Ron Burkle.
- West Ham’s Rehanne Skinner, who is just one of two English women managers in the Women’s Super League, spoke on how there should be more support and opportunities for women to receive coaching experience.
- French midfielder Paul Pogba spoke on how he considered retirement after being handed a four-year ban, which was later reduced to 18 months earlier this month.
- Atletico Madrid was successful in its appeal regarding fans throwing items on the field in a derby match with Real Madrid. As a result, the three-game partial stadium ban was reduced to one game and the fine was changed from $49,000 to just $3,200.
That’ll do it for me today. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend. Go Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 10/17/24
Facundo Torres’ journey to Orlando, Yutaro Tsukada earns recognition, USMNT will face Jamaica in the Nations League, and more.
How’s it going, Mane Landers? I hope you all have been enjoying the cooler temperatures this week. It’s been nice to break out some long sleeves and it gives me a chance to acclimate before a trip to Maine next week. I may even drink some hot coffee today instead of the usual cold brew. Let’s get this Thursday started with today’s links!
Facundo Torres’ Path to Orlando
Orlando City forward Facundo Torres is enjoying his best season yet with the Lions, scoring 18 goals across all competitions to help the Lions climb up the Eastern Conference standings. It’s his third year in the City Beautiful, joining the club as a Designated Player from Penarol back in 2022. The 24-year-old discussed just how quickly things changed after just one year playing professionally with Penarol.
“At first, I was a little afraid and a little nervous because it was my first time going off on my own,” Torres told WESH 2 recently. “I could only enjoy a year of being a professional in Peñarol because everything happened so fast, debuting and then going to the national team and then the transfer to Orlando — it happened so fast. But I found good people in this club, and the Hispanic community here is big, so that helped me feel at home.”
Torres also talked about how soccer fits in Uruguay’s culture, as well as how his work ethic has helped him reach this point in his career. Orlando’s roster features players from many different cultures, with many hailing from countries in South America. The result is a unique club culture that’s helped the team build a strong identity and find success.
Orlando City Prepares for Decision Day
Orlando City will host Atlanta United on Saturday in what should be an exciting Decision Day showdown between the two rivals. Both teams have plenty to play for beyond the usual bragging rights, as the Lions aim to secure home-field advantage in the first round of the playoffs while Atlanta fights for a spot in the postseason. Head Coach Oscar Pareja spoke on how the team is maintaining momentum after the international break to finish the season strong before the playoffs.
Yutaro Tsukada Honored For Rookie Season
Orlando City B’s Yutaro Tsukada was an honorable mention at forward in this year’s MLS NEXT Pro Best XI. Drafted with the 25th overall pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft, Tsukada had seven goals and seven assists in 22 matches with OCB this season. His efforts earned him a contract with the first team in August and he’s made three appearances with the Lions. It’s nice to see the 23-year-old receive some recognition for a solid first year. I think an argument could definitely be made that Alex Freeman deserved a spot after recording eight goals and nine assists this season. The Young Lions are back in action this Sunday for a playoff match on the road against Chicago Fire FC II.
USMNT Will Face Jamaica in Nations League
The United States Men’s National Team will take on Jamaica in next month’s Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals. The first match of the two-leg series will take place in Kingston on Nov. 14 before the two teams face off again in St. Louis on Nov. 18. The U.S. has won all three of the past editions of the Nations League and beat Jamaica 3-1 in the semifinals earlier this year in a match that was closer than the score suggests. Jamaica tends to keep things tight when playing the U.S. and went undefeated in its group play to reach the quarterfinals. It will be interesting to see how Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino builds his lineup for his first Nations League matches.
FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Kicks Off
The U.S. had a rough start to its U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign with a 3-1 loss to Spain. An own goal gave Spain an early lead, but the U.S. battled back with a goal from Melanie Barcenas later in the first half. Spain took all three points though with Noa Ortega scoring and then providing the assist on Spain’s third goal. The result puts the U.S. last in its group for the time being, as Colombia and South Korea played to a 1-1 draw. The U.S. will play its next match Saturday against Colombia before taking on South Korea Tuesday to close out its group play.
Free Kicks
- Congratulations to former Orlando Pride goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris, who was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame.
- You can download a customized cover featuring the Lions for EA Sports FC 25. I haven’t played a soccer video game in a while, but this is pretty dang cool to see regardless.
- Boston’s NWSL team apologized for the “Too Many Balls” part of its marketing campaign. It’s honestly such a baffling thing to have existed in the first place. Hopefully those in charge make some changes about the name BOS Nation FC as well.
- American defender Emily Fox scored her first goal for Arsenal in a 4-1 win over Valerenga in the Champions League.
- It’s official: Thomas Tuchel is England’s new manager. He will get started in January, with Lee Carsley serving as the interim head coach for the team’s UEFA Nations League matches next month.
I hope you all have a great Thursday as we get ready for a weekend filled with Orlando soccer to enjoy. Make sure to stay hydrated out there!
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