Lion Links: 8/8/20

Hello, Mane Landers. I hope everyone is doing well this weekend. At least we enter the weekend on a high note after Orlando City’s big win Thursday night. We have a lot to cover today, so let’s get right to the links!

Kaká Praises Club for New Identity

Former Orlando City star Kaká likes what he’s seen so far from the Lions in the MLS is Back Tournament. Like many of us, he watched the Thursday night’s game when the Lions beat Minnesota United 3-1. Kaká also shared words on Portuguese winger Nani, who wears the captain’s armband for the Lions just as Kaká did.

“I love Nani,” Kaká said. “I think he’s very good, very talented. And he’s the type of player that can find a solution in any moment of the game. So I love players like that, but of course he’s not playing by himself. The team works very, very well in this moment. So it makes things easy for Nani to be in the right spot waiting for the right ball to be as decisive as he can be.”

Oscar Pareja Reviews Nani’s Performance

Kaká isn’t the only one praising Nani for his stellar performance on Thursday night with two goals and an assist against Minnesota United. The former Sporting Lisbon and Manchester United player has made a huge impact with Orlando City during the tournament with three goals in six games. He also has three assists so far and Orlando City Head Coach Oscar Pareja gave his thoughts on Nani’s impact with the club.

“The thing that I want you all to know is that he’s training every single day like he is a rookie coming into the league and we all respect that from him. In the games that he needs to appear, he is doing it. It’s contagious, his energy, and we respect his leadership”

The Lions will need one more solid performance on Tuesday in the MLS is Back Tournament final against the Portland Timbers. If they win, the Lions will not only get silverware for the first time in the MLS era, but also a hefty sum in prize money and a coveted spot in the 2021 Concacaf Champions League.

Orlando City B Gets First Win

OCB got its first win of the season last night, winning 2-0 against New England Revolution II. The Young Lions were helped by Revolution defender Ryo Shimazaki earning two yellow cards in 38 minutes to be sent off. Moises Tablante had two assists, feeding Wilfredo Rivera and Kenji Tanaka for two goals in the second half. This is the first win for the reserve side under new coach Marcelo Neveleff and is certainly a good way for the Young Lions to bounce back after losing their first game to South Georgia Tormenta FC last week. After two road games, OCB hosts Fort Lauderdale CF in its debut at Osceola County Stadium in Kissimmee next Friday night.

Christian Pulisic Will Miss Six Weeks

Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic injured his hamstring in the FA Cup final against Arsenal last week, but it’s not as bad as initially thought. Chelsea manager Frank Lampard confirmed Pulisic will miss six weeks with his hamstring injury, meaning Pulisic will likely miss the preseason and Chelsea’s opening round of English Premier League games next month. However, Pulisic did receive some good news. The 21-year-old is one of eight nominees for Premier League Young Player of the Season after his debut season in England. Pulisic was in good form before his injury so hopefully he can have a speedy recovery and be fit for both Chelsea and the United States Men’s National Team.

Free Kicks

• Orlando City SC got creative to wish all the other MLS clubs farewell.

• Orlando City fan Julian Rios got creative and raised money to fly a banner to show the players support before the game.
• The Orlando Pride celebrated International Beer Day with a special offer. Don’t worry, there’s still plenty of time to stock up on Pride gear and celebrate responsibly.

• OCB goalkeeper Austin Aviza won USL League One Save of the Week for his stellar play against Tormenta FC last week.

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