Lion Links: 4/22/21

Salutations, Mane Landers. I hope you are all doing well this Thursday. It has been a hectic week at school for me, personally. I’m delighted that this school and work week is nearly over. Anyways, let’s get on to what’s important, the links. But first, let’s wish Orlando City’s original MLS captain, Kaká, a happy 39th birthday.

Orlando Pride Secure First win of NWSL Season

The Orlando Pride managed their first win of the season at home, beating the Washington Spirit, 1-0. A goal at the 11-minute mark by Sydney Leroux, off a steal and assist by Alex Morgan, was enough to see Marc Skinner’s team across the line. Additionally, yet another penalty save — and eight other stops as well — from Ashlyn Harris helped to secure the first victory and clean sheet this campaign.

Skinner and the players will hope to keep up momentum come May 1 when the side travels to take on the North Carolina Courage. Let’s hope Wednesday’s hard-fought victory can get the club firing on all cylinders going into the rest of the season.

Daryl Dike Leads Barnsley to Win with Bicycle Kick Goal

Daryl Dike scored a phenomenal bicycle kick against Huddersfield Town to help his side onto a 1-0 win. Despite coming on as a substitute at the end of the first half, Dike turned out to be the difference. In doing so, the 20-year-old put his side in a wonderful position to reach the Championship playoffs with his ninth goal since going to England on loan.

“The club has three matches remaining on its league schedule and could clinch its playoff berth with a victory over Rotherham United this weekend, paired with a Reading draw or loss to Swansea City.

As for Dike, he will hope to continue racking up the goals for Barnsley, who are seeking a first appearance in the Premier League since 2002.”

New Orlando City and Pride Store Opening 

A new Orlando City and Pride store is opening near Disney World on April 23. Less than two miles away from the resort, a new outlet store dedicated to Orlando soccer is opening at the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores. Along with the latest team gear, the 1,000-square-foot shop will also sell tickets to matches. 

“The grand opening event will start at 4 p.m. and feature family activities, giveaways, match ticket raffles and a visit from the club’s mascot, Kingston. Normal operating hours for the store will be 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays. For more information on the new store, click here.”

Olympic Soccer Groups Announced 

The groups have been announced for the 28 men’s and women’s sides that qualified for the Olympic soccer tournaments. While the United States Men’s National Team failed to qualify, the USWNT has had its group announced. The group in which the Americans have been put in looks as if it could be a very interesting one to say the least. 

“Group G in the women’s tournament looks immeasurably mouth-watering. Not only does it feature the two co-hosts of the next FIFA Women’s World Cup™, Australia and New Zealand, but it also gives USA the chance for Olympic revenge over a Sweden side that eliminated them from Rio 2016 on penalties.”

Group E on the women’s side also looks like a very difficult one at first glance. Japan, Canada, and Great Britain all in one bracket could be quite entertaining.

As for the men’s side of the draw, Group D looks quite intriguing on paper. Germany and Brazil squared off in the 2016 final, and the Germans could be hoping for retribution just as the USWNT may be. The forthcoming Olympics looks set to be an enjoyable tournament. Fans can start watching July 21. 

 Free Kicks

• There has been an update on the Orlando City injury list. Robin Jansson has participated in training this week, and Joao Moutinho is still on track for his originally announced return.  

• Here’s another look at that “majestic” Dike goal. What a shot from the Lion on loan. And the photographer too!

• Sao Paulo has reportedly paid the remaining debt to Orlando City for the Kaká loan that took place in 2014. 
• Schalke supporters attacked the team’s players after relegation was confirmed. 
• Talk about adding insult, or dessert, to injury. A local bakery in Dortmund made these cookies to celebrate the relegation of bitter rivals Schalke. 

• Angel Di Maria bagged an impressive rabona assist in his side’s 5-0 win over Anger. 

That will do it for this Thursday’s set of links. Thanks for tagging along. I’ll see you next time.