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Lion Links: 9/7/20

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5 years ago

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Merry Monday morning, Mane Landers! Is it just me or is it weird being in September? I know that each month feels like a year, and that this year has already felt like a decade, but I’m still astounded each time we hit a new month. I’m also slightly annoyed we’re seeing pumpkin spice stuff and winter clothes in stores when it’s still topping 90 degrees each day. But I might be even more annoyed at the memes that point out that it’s too early for pumpkin spice stuff in Florida. I have complex feelings about it all, though I am happy that Oktoberfest beers (known as Märzen beers) are coming into season. I think that’s enough personal sharing for today, so let’s get to the links. 

The Impact of Orlando’s Draw

Evidently, giving up the goal to Atlanta United FC was deflating for the Orlando City faithful, and a wonderful result for Atlanta supporters. I would agree it’s disappointing, but given how the Lions were the better team on the pitch most of the night, I wouldn’t describe myself as “deflated.” How about you? One of the reasons why I’m doing as well as I am after dropping points at home is how much it meant for Atlanta to get that point. It’s quite the change from the past, and the MLS is a league with plenty of parity. While it wasn’t the preferred result, a point is a point and isn’t it telling that it doesn’t seem good enough now?

Daryl Dike is Getting Noticed

With three goals and three assists in five matches, Dike is making noise in his rookie season with Orlando City. Dike is one of those rare finds from the MLS SuperDraft that the Lions seem to be able to find every few years. Just like Cyle Larin and Chris Mueller, Dike is well worth the draft pick. Dike’s holdup play, decision making, and ability to play with his back to goal have been much better than one would have expected. His play has been a bright spot among bright spots since the MLS restart. His attitude is also exactly what one would hope for from a promising, young talent.

Excitement Building for NWSL Fall Series

Despite the fact that numerous players from the Orlando Pride and many other NWSL teams have been loaned out, there is still plenty to get excited about for the National Women’s Soccer League’s Fall Series. With the Pride’s first match being against the North Carolina Courage, one might not think it’s a big match, but given that the Pride haven’t played yet in 2020, it does hold some appeal. Add in whether the Pride’s stan account will make a reappearance, and there’s at least some interesting stories to be told. Of course, that’s just the Orlando stuff, and each club will be dealing with its own issues as the NWSL tries to put some sort of soccer on display. 

Orlando City B Loses on the Road

In the first of a three-game road trip, Orlando City B fell 1-0 to Union Omaha. Mason Stajduhar, Joey DeZart, and Jordan Bender all started in the away game, but Omaha scored in the 43rd minute to sink the Young Lions early on. It was only the second time OCB was shut out this season and hopefully the offense can make some noise in the next road game against Fort Lauderdale CF.

MLS Routs and Rivalry Games

There was a heavy slate of MLS action last night. In the Eastern Conference, D.C. United drew 0-0 with New York City FC despite not having a shot on goal. The Philadelphia Union leapfrogged back into second place with a 3-0 win over the New York Red Bulls. The New England Revolution won their first match against the Chicago Fire in the Windy City since 2013 by a score of 2-1. The Columbus Crew maintained their stranglehold on first place with a 3-0 win over FC Cincinnati in the Hell is Real Derby, and Inter Miami CF played Nashville FC to a scoreless draw.

In the Western Conference, Minnesota United dominated in a 4-0 win over Real Salt Lake, the LA Galaxy took down LAFC in a 3-0 home victory in El Trafico, and the Seattle Sounders fell 2-1 against the rival Portland Timbers.  

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  • Zlatan Ibrahimovic criticized Sweden boss Janne Andersson for not starting midfielder Dejan Kulusevski in the 1-0 loss to France in the Nations League on Saturday. It’s odd since Zlatan is known for being so soft spoken. 
  • Just because Lionel Messi is staying put, that doesn’t mean there aren’t other transfer rumors in Europe, including what might become of Barcelona’s Antoine Griezmann.
  • Speaking of rumors, should Bayern Munich take a look at American right back Sergino Dest? He’s one of five players the German giant could target.
  • With the match reaching its end, every outfield player did their part in Miami FC’s equalizer against the Charleston Battery on Saturday. 

That will do it for today. There’s actually the better part of a week until the Lions play Inter Miami, so enjoy the breather, and keep checking back for more news as it drops.

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 7/18/25

Justin Ellis named U-19 MLS NEXT MVP, Orlando Pride announce historic apparel collection, landing spots for USMNT players, and more.

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1 day ago

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July 18, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City B

Happy Friday! It’s been a long week, but the weekend is nearly upon us. My parents are in town on vacation, so I’m looking forward to having an excuse to go out to brunch. It should be a nice few days with plenty of soccer to keep us all entertained. Let’s get to the links!

Justin Ellis Named U-19 MLS NEXT MVP

Orlando City B forward Justin Ellis was named MLS NEXT MVP for the U-19 age group after a stellar season that included 18 goals for the Lions. The 18-year-old was the top scorer of this year’s Generation Adidas Cup to help his team lift the trophy and helped the team reach the semifinals of the MLS NEXT Cup. In MLS NEXT Pro action, Ellis has recorded seven goals and three assists in 11 appearances for OCB. It’s quite the accolade for the forward and hopefully he can continue to make strides in his development to make an impact with the first team.

Orlando Pride Announce Full-Team Apparel Collection

The Orlando Pride became the first NWSL club to offer a merchandise line featuring every player on the roster after announcing a new apparel collection. The Pride, in collaboration with apparel brand 500 Level, will offer over 500 player-specific items to form the largest player collection across the major U.S. sports leagues. As someone who is usually a fan of the unsung heroes when it comes to sports, I think it’s pretty great that fans are now able to get apparel representing their favorite Pride player no matter who that is.

Ideal Transfer Landing Spots for USMNT Players

ESPN took a stab at identifying the best fits for United States Men’s National Team players with transfer buzz following the Concacaf Gold Cup. Orlando City right back Alex Freeman was listed but could need a bit more time solidifying his game with the Lions before big clubs come knocking. Midfielder Diego Luna had a strong tournament with the U.S. this summer and could fit in well with Celta Vigo’s rebuilding plans. As for other intriguing things to keep an eye on, a move to MLS could give Giovanni Reyna the playing time he desperately needs; Ricardo Pepi may be best off staying at PSV Eindhoven; and Marseille may be just what the doctor ordered for Tim Weah.

England Comes Back to Reach Euro Semifinals

England secured its spot in the Women’s European Championship semifinals in dramatic fashion, advancing on penalties against Sweden after a 2-2 draw. A pair of goals in the first half by Sweden had the Scandinavian nation on top for most of the match, but Lucy Bronze scored in the 79th minute, before 19-year-old substitute Michelle Agyemang scored the equalizer in the 81st. The penalty shootout included nine misses, but the defending champs prevailed in the end. It’s a brutal way for Peter Gerhardsson’s tenure as Sweden’s head coach to come to a close. England will face Italy in the semifinals on Tuesday.

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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: 7/17/25

Orlando City falls apart at home, Orlando Pride players in action abroad, Charlotte will host 2026 MLS All-Star Game, and more.

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2 days ago

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July 17, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Sometimes the Cardiac Cats are fun to watch, and other times they really do just stomp your heart into pieces. We’re unfortunately in the aftermath of the latter after Orlando City’s rough defeat last night. The good news is that the Lions can’t lose today as well. Let’s jump right into today’s links.

Orlando City Beaten by New York City FC

The Lions’ summer struggles continued with a disappointing 2-1 loss at home to New York City FC. Robin Jansson scored his first goal of the season, but Orlando collapsed late at home yet again, suffering from an own goal and a winner from Alonso Martinez in stoppage time. Orlando City is now winless in its past four games and has not won at home since May 24. There’s not much time to shake off this loss, as the Lions are back in action on Saturday for a tough road match against the New England Revolution.

Keeping Up With the Pride Players Abroad

Marta came off the bench and provided a pair of assists in Brazil’s dominant 6-0 win over Bolivia in the Copa America Femenina’s group stage. Kerolin had a hat trick and the result keeps Brazil at the top of its group for the time being. The Brazilians will be back in action on Tuesday to face Paraguay.

The CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals kick off on Friday with a great matchup between Zambia and Nigeria. Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji have each scored three goals this tournament and both were named to the Best XI of the group stage. Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse likely won’t play, but England takes on Sweden today in the Women’s European Championship quarterfinals.

Charlotte Will Host 2026 MLS All-Star Game

MLS announced that Charlotte will serve as the host of the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, the 30th in the league’s history. Charlotte FC joined the league in 2022 and this will be the first time the event is held in Charlotte. It’s always nice to see a smaller market receive its day in the sun, and Charlotte has really embraced soccer over the years. But if Sir Minty doesn’t take part in the skills challenge next year, then what are we even doing?

D.C. United Hires Rene Weiler

Rene Weiler is officially the next head coach of D.C. United and will take over once he receives a U.S. work permit. The 51-year-old brings plenty of European experience to the nation’s capital and won the Swiss Cup with Servette FC last year. He replaces Troy Lesesne, who was fired by the club after its exit from the U.S. Open Cup earlier this month. It’s a new era for one of the league’s older clubs, and it will be interesting to see how aggressive D.C. will be to bring in talent during the upcoming transfer window.

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  • Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has reportedly agreed to terms with Inter Miami and could be with the club in time for the Leagues Cup. He also reportedly won’t need to take up a Designated Player spot this year, because of course.

That’s all I have for you this time around, Mane Landers. Stay hydrated and have a great Thursday!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 7/16/25

Orlando City faces NYCFC, Marco Pasalic is an All-Star, OCB’s Jhon Solis transfers out, and more.

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3 days ago

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July 16, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. It’s matchday in the City Beautiful as Orlando City hosts New York City FC in a crucial Eastern Conference bout. I know I’m in the minority, but I love Wednesday matches since I’m off work on Thursdays. That being said, if you have the opportunity, you should definitely head down to the match tonight. For now, let’s get to the links.

Lions Host the Pigeons

Orlando City welcomes New York City FC to Inter&Co Stadium tonight. The midweek match comes after a short turnaround following Saturday’s draw against CF Montreal. The Lions will need to get the offense back in gear to take all three points from NYCFC. Our own Ben Miller joined Hudson River Blue to answer questions for the opposition. Check back later today for our detailed preview of the match.

Pasalic is an All-Star

Marco Pasalic was named to the MLS All-Star squad by coach Nico Estévez. Pasalic joins Alex Freeman as the second Lion to represent Orlando City in the match. The MLS All-Stars will play a team of All-Stars from Liga MX. Pasalic is tied with Martin Ojeda for the team’s goal-scoring lead with 10. He also has four assists for the Lions. Pasalic is a worthy addition to the MLS All-Star Team, but it does beg the question why Ojeda didn’t also get an invitation.

So Long, Solis

Orlando City B has transferred midfielder Jhon Solis to Fortaleza C.E.I.F. of Liga BetPlay Dimayor — Colombia’s top tier. Solis made 70 appearances for the Young Lions since joining prior to the 2023 season. As a native of Medellín, Colombia, the 26-year-old is returning to his home country to continue his career. Solis wasn’t able to make the jump to Orlando City’s first team, but he was a consistent starter for OCB.

U.S. National Team News

Fresh off his appearances in the Concacaf Gold Cup, Patrick Agyemang has been transferred from Charlotte FC to Derby County in the English Championship. In sadder news, Aaron Long is out for the season after having surgery to repair a ruptured left Achilles.

On the women’s side, USWNT coach Emma Hayes has great praise for Sam Coffey and her presence in the U.S. midfield.

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That will do it for today. Check back later as we prepare you for tonight’s match, and don’t forget to follow The Mane Land on Bluesky to get match updates. Vamos Orlando!

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