Lion Links: 9/16/20

Good morning, Mane Landers! I hope the day finds you well. Let’s go ahead and jump into the links.

Lions Fifth in MLS Week 11 Power Rankings

It’s not always exciting to write about the MLS power rankings, but Orlando City continues to climb. After the win against Inter Miami, OCSC is officially in the top five. Unbeaten in five matches, it’s clear that Oscar Pareja and the Lions are working hard to make it to the Audi MLS Cup playoffs for the first time in club history.

Pride Gearing Up for Fall Series

While a great deal of the Orlando Pride’s players have gone out on loan, the remaining players continue to to prepare for the NWSL Fall Series.

“Just being together, it’s great being back out here training every day. It brings a sense of normalcy back into our lives and it’s been really fun to be back out here,” said Orlando Pride’s Marisa Viggiano during training.

USL Championship Expansion

The USL Championship announced yesterday that the Oakland Roots Sports Club will join the second-tier league for the 2021 season.

“Oakland Roots Sports Club is one of the most impressive and purpose-driven organizations in the United States. We are thrilled to welcome them into the Championship,” said USL Chief Executive Officer Alec Papadakis. “When we think about the kind of clubs that can help drive our league forward, we look for committed ownership and fantastic community support. Oakland Roots possess those things in abundance, and we have no doubt they will be a huge success in our league going forward.”

Bundesliga to Welcome Back Fans

The new Bundesliga season will kick off on Friday as Bayern Munich hosts Schalke and, for the first time in what feels like forever, there will be fans in the stands. The German football league will allow spectators back at 20% capacity, no away fans, no alcohol, and a ban on standing. If the seven-day infection rate in the home city is above 35 per 100,000, the match will be played without spectators.

Free Kicks

• I’m sorry, I did not expect to melt while writing links.

• The Money Badger is making moves.

• Nani showing off just a little bit.

• Does the dancing pumpkin ever disappoint?

• USMNT prospect Ulysses Llanez is on the move, as the 19-year-old has been loaned to Heerenveen in Holland from VfL Wolfsburg.

That’s going to do it for me today, everyone. Have a great day and stay safe!