Lion Links
Lion Links: 6/30/21
Hello, Mane Landers. I can’t believe we’re at the end of June and halfway through 2021. I hope you all are doing well down in Florida. I miss you guys up here in the Windy City. It’s been feeling a bit like Florida up here with plenty of rainy weather over the past week. Let’s get to the links!
Orlando City Prepares for the New York Red Bulls
The Lions are currently on a three-game winning streak and have won five out of their last six matches. The Lions will host the New York Red Bulls this Saturday as they try to stay near the top of the Eastern Conference. The game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. at Exploria Stadium and you can watch the game on FOX 35 Plus or stream it on the LionNation TV app. The Red Bulls are currently in seventh place in the Eastern Conference and six different players have scored goals for them in recent matches. They also picked up their fourth clean sheet this season after a 0-0 draw with Atlanta United.
The Lions’ only loss this season came on the road against the Red Bulls on May 29, losing 2-1. At that time, Nani was suspended, several players were injured, and Daryl Dike was with the United States Men’s National Team. Nani and Dike should suit up this weekend as they look to keep the Lions’ win streak going. More reinforcements are coming for the Lions in the near future as well, with center back Rodrigo Schlegel returning to the team and forward Alexandre Pato progressing in his recovery.
Notes from training: Defender Rodrigo Schlegel is back to training in Orlando with the team.
Pato is also involved in contact drills this morning. Not full speed but looks confident and reactive when changing directions.
— Julia Poe (@byjuliapoe) June 29, 2021
Ali Riley Gets Ready to Captain New Zealand
The upcoming Tokyo Olympics will be the first time Orlando Pride defender Ali Riley rejoins her New Zealand teammates since the COVID-19 pandemic began last year. Unlike other national teams, New Zealand has not played exhibition matches leading up to the Olympics. As a result, Riley has had to prepare for her role as New Zealand’s captain while playing with the Pride in Orlando.
“I’m definitely in a unique position not having any preparation with the national team,” Riley said. “But I know with full confidence that being here is the best place I can be if I’m not going to be with my national team in terms of preparing.”
New Zealand’s first match will be against Australia on July 21 in a group that also includes the United States and Sweden. The group stage scheduling will be similar to the Pride’s recent stretch of play where they played three games in seven days. In those matches, Riley played in all of them, starting twice, as she got some more familiarity with playing multiple matches in a week.
Orlando City’s U-17 Team Advances
Orlando’s U-17 squad won 2-1 against the LA Galaxy in the MLS NEXT Cup quarterfinals. Orlando’s Gonzalo Agustoni-Chagas scored from an unreal angle to give the Lions a 2-0 lead in a goal that has to be seen to be believed.
An absolutely RIDICULOUS goal from Gonzalo Agustoni-Chagas in the @MLSNEXT Playoffs 💥
Just over 20 minutes to go 🎥: https://t.co/S8dvU4zHAn pic.twitter.com/FyXgz7Ajyy
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) June 29, 2021
The Young Lions have had an impressive run in the tournament, dispatching the New England Revolution and Shattuck St. Mary’s in earlier rounds. The team will now face the Sacramento Republic in the semifinals tomorrow night at 9:05 p.m. You can also check out the full highlights from Orlando’s win over the Galaxy below.
The U17s are moving onto the @MLSNEXT semi-finals! 💪 #VamosOrlando pic.twitter.com/JjmOEmS0tY
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) June 29, 2021
Euro 2020 Quarterfinals Are Set
After a scoreless first half, Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling both scored to lift England to a 2-0 win over Germany. England fans went wild after the Three Lions won a Euro knockout stage game for the first time since 1996. For Joachim Low, his run as Germany’s manager is over after 15 years. Germany will need to retool its roster before the UEFA World Cup qualifiers starting up again in September.
In the later match-up, Sweden had its hands full as it was beaten 2-1 by Ukraine in extra time. Artem Dovbyk scored the second-latest goal in European championship history to propel Ukraine to the quarterfinals for the first time.
The next pair of matches will begin on Friday when Switzerland plays Spain at noon before Belgium faces Italy at 3 p.m. On Saturday, the Czech Republic takes on Denmark at noon and England plays Ukraine at 3 p.m.
Free Kicks
- The Lions moved up to third in the league’s power rankings, now sitting behind the Seattle Sounders and the New England Revolution.
- Orlando’s Dike and right back Michael Halliday were both noted as young MLS players who did well this past week.
- The MLS All-Star Skills Challenge will return this year and is set to take place on Aug. 24, the day before the MLS All-Star Game. LAFC’s Carlos Vela and the Galaxy’s Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez are the only confirmed names for the challenge at this time, but Nani is sure to be a strong candidate considering his performance in the event back in 2019.
- Former Lion Hadji Barry scored four goals across two matches this week for Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC and was voted USL Championship Player of the Week.
- USMNT winger Konrad de la Fuente is leaving FC Barcelona and will sign a four-year contract with Marseille.
- The U.S. Soccer Federation announced its “One Nation” initiatives as part of its efforts to increase community engagement and uplift underserved areas while the USWNT prepares for the Olympics.
- The San Jose Earthquakes have parted ways with General Manager Jesse Fioranelli.
- The Netherlands and manager Frank de Boer have agreed to part ways after their shocking loss to the Czech Republic in the knockout stages.
That will do it for me, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Wednesday, take care of yourselves, and I’ll see you next time.
Lion Links
Lion Links: 1/24/25
Cesar Araujo will reportedly stay in Orlando, USMNT takeaways, MLS transfer news, and much more.
Happy Friday! It should be a pretty decent weekend with plenty of soccer to enjoy both in Orlando and abroad. Orlando City’s first preseason game is Saturday against Atletico Mineiro at Inter&Co Stadium. While I won’t be in attendance, I’m looking forward to learning how they do. But for now, let’s jump into today’s links!
Cesar Araujo Will Reportedly Stay in Orlando
There have been rumors and reports swirling around regarding midfielder Cesar Araujo leaving Orlando City this off-season. However, the 23-year-old will reportedly stay in Orlando for the 2025 season according to Tom Bogert. Uruguayan club Nacional has reportedly been trying to sign Araujo while he has a year left on his contract.
It makes all the sense in the world for Orlando to want to keep Araujo in the center of its midfield for 2025. He’s been incredible since joining Orlando back in 2022 and has been integral to the club’s success in recent years. Clubs were always going to come knocking for Araujo’s talents, but I expect it would take a hefty offer for the Lions to let him go before his contract is up.
Takeaways From USMNT January Camp
While the United States Men’s National Team’s January camp usually isn’t too impactful, this year’s edition had some extra intrigue due to some standout performances across the two friendly wins. Zack Steffen had a statement game against Costa Rica, making a few sensational saves to secure a clean sheet. He needed a game like that to stay in the mix for the starting job after a rough season with the Colorado Rapids. Striker Patrick Agyemang played his first two USMNT games this month and scored in both, making the most of his opportunity. Diego Luna taking an elbow to the face and coming back out to assist on the team’s first goal against Costa Rica is also the kind of moment that could earn him more looks in the future.
MLS Transfer News Roundup
MLS teams other than Orlando City continue to make moves ahead of the 2025 season. The exodus from FC Dallas rolls on, as Alan Velasco was officially transferred to Boca Juniors in Argentina for a reported $12 million transfer fee. Dallas also traded center back Nkosi Tafari to LAFC in exchange for $300,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money and an international roster slot.
The Karol Swiderski era in Charlotte is over, as the club transferred him to Panathinaikos for a reported transfer fee of $2 million. Real Salt Lake added a young striker, signing 20-year-old Ariath Piol from MacArthur FC in Australia. Nashville SC signed American goalkeeper Brian Schwake from CD Castellon in Spain’s second division to provide more depth behind Joe Willis. Austin FC’s busy off-season continued by signing Zan Kolmanic to a new contract through 2026. The club is also reportedly closer to signing forward Myrto Uzuni for a club-record fee.
Europa League First Phase Nears Conclusion
Lazio is the only team to guarantee a spot in the Europa League’s round of 16 so far, doing so after a 3-1 win over Real Sociedad. English clubs Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur edged closer to securing a spot. A late winner from Bruno Fernandes gave United a 2-1 victory against Rangers, while Tottenham beat Hoffenheim 3-2 thanks to a brace from Heung-Min Son. The upset of the round belonged to Latvian club FK RFS, which took down Ajax in a 1-0 win at home. Eintracht Frankfurt, Union Saint-Gilloise, and Midtjylland also picked up wins this week. This phase of the tournament will wrap up with 18 games on Thursday.
Free Kicks
- Bay FC bought out Deyna Castellanos’ contract, with the midfielder joining the Portland Thorns as a free agent soon after.
- After a vote approving funds to repair Al Lang Stadium, the Tampa Bay Rowdies announced that they will play there for their upcoming USL Championship season.
- Manchester City defender Kyle Walker will reportedly join AC Milan on loan for the remainder of the season, with an option for the Italian club to buy him after the loan.
- Barcelona extended defender Ronald Araujo’s contract to keep him at the club through 2031.
- Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke will be out for around six weeks due to a knee injury according to Ange Postecoglou.
That’s all I have for you today. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 1/23/25
Orlando City signs Thomas Williams to new contract, Orlando Pride schedule revealed, USMNT wins against Costa Rica, and more.
I hope you all are staying warm as we deal with cold weather across Florida. It’s at least been nice to break out some of my heavier blankets and forgotten hot cocoa packets I’ve had stored away. My cat has also been curling up next to me more, which is always a plus. Still, not shivering while waiting for my car to warm up would be great. Let’s dive into today’s links!
Thomas Williams Signs New Orlando City Contract
Orlando City center back Thomas Williams signed a new contract with the club that lasts through 2026, with an option for 2027 as well. Williams joined the club’s academy back in 2015 and became the youngest Homegrown Player in club history when he signed a first-team contract at 16 years old in 2021. The 20-year-old hasn’t featured much for the first team, and he’ll likely spend most of this year with Orlando City B for consistent playing time. Hopefully Williams can take a step forward in his development and provide the Lions some helpful depth at center back in the event of injuries.
Orlando Pride 2025 Season Schedule Unveiled
The NWSL announced its 2025 season schedule Wednesday, and the Orlando Pride will start their title defense season at home against the Chicago Red Stars on March 14. Their first road game will be the following weekend on March 23 against NJ/NY Gotham FC. Decision Day returns to the schedule this year, with all 14 clubs in action on Nov. 2. The Pride will close out their regular season at home that day against the Seattle Reign, with the postseason set to begin on Nov. 7. There’s also a break in the schedule in July, with no regular-season games scheduled due to international tournaments like the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and Copa America Femenina.
USMNT Shuts Out Costa Rica in Orlando
The United States Men’s National Team beat Costa Rica 3-0 at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando Wednesday night to stay perfect at the home of the Lions and Pride at 7-0-0. Goalkeeper Zack Steffen truly earned his clean sheet, coming up with some great saves to deny Costa Rica. It was also a solid attacking performance from the Yanks, and Patrick Agyemang put a bow on what’s been a great month for him with his second goal in as many games. Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino has some time to assess things before the USMNT plays Panama in the Concacaf Nations League semifinals on March 20
Keeping Up With MLS Transfer News
San Diego FC added another Designated Player ahead of its inaugural season, signing Danish winger Anders Dreyer from Anderlecht for a transfer fee reportedly near $5 million. He recorded 31 goals and 23 assists in 87 appearances across all competitions for Anderlecht and joins San Diego on a three-year deal. Charlotte FC officially added Wilfried Zaha on loan from Galatasaray. He’ll occupy a DP spot and the loan lasts through Jan. 16, 2026, with an option to extend it through June of that year as well.
LAFC made a trade with its rival to strengthen its midfield, acquiring Mark Delgado from the LA Galaxy in exchange for $400,000 in General Allocation Money. The Portland Timbers signed Venezuelan forward Kevin Kelsy from Shakhtar Donetsk as an MLS U22 Initiative player, with FC Cincinnati receiving GAM for his discovery rights. Real Salt Lake, which signed Mason Stajduhar from Orlando City earlier this month, continued to make changes to its goalkeeping group. The club signed veteran goalkeeper Rafael Cabral as a free agent and transferred 19-year-old American Gavin Beavers to Brondby IF in Denmark.
UEFA Champions League Roundup
The penultimate round of the UEFA Champions League’s league phase wrapped up this week. Paris Saint-Germain beat Manchester City 4-2 in the heavyweight matchup of the round, with all six goals coming in the second half. Joao Neves gave PSG the lead in the 78th minute before Goncalo Ramos put the game on ice in stoppage time. City now needs to win its final game against Club Brugge on Wednesday in order to advance.
Real Madrid cruised to a 5-1 win against RB Salzburg to advance, with both Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. scoring braces. Celtic also booked its spot in the next round after a 1-0 win against Young Boys. Feyenoord pulled off an upset by winning 3-0 against Bayern Munich as well. Elsewhere in the tournament, AC Milan won 1-0 at home against Girona, Arsenal beat Dinamo Zagreb 3-0, and RB Leipzig did well in a 2-1 victory over Sporting CP.
Free Kicks
- American goalkeeper Michelle Betos announced her retirement from professional soccer after a career that included winning the 2016 NWSL Shield with the Portland Thorns and the 2023 NWSL Championship with Gotham. Betos was also named NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year with the Thorns in 2015.
- Arsenal and Chelsea are among the multiple clubs reportedly keeping an eye on American forward Trinity Rodman, whose contract with the Washington Spirit ends after this year.
- Borussia Dortmund fired Nuri Sahin following the club’s 2-1 defeat to Bologna in the Champions League. Dortmund has lost all four of its matches so far in 2025 and is 10th in the Bundesliga standings.
- Some of the notable matches in today’s Europa League action include Manchester United hosting Rangers, Tottenham taking on Hoffenheim, and AS Roma traveling to face AZ Alkmaar.
- Costa Rican goalkeeper Keylor Navas has joined Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina. The 38-year-old hasn’t been with a club since departing PSG in May of 2024.
That’s all I have for you today. I hope you all have a great Thursday and rest of your week!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 1/22/25
Orlando City transfer rumors, Orlando Pride preseason begins, USMNT at Inter&Co, and more.
Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. Up here in Tallahassee, I’m waking up to snow/sleet, closed schools, closed government offices, and potentially icy roads. Many people will get an extra day off of work, however, I still get to go to work. I’m sure you can imagine how happy I am about that. Enough of my winter grumbling. Let’s get to the links but not until after we wish Orlando City fullback Michael Halliday a happy 22nd birthday.
Orlando City Reportedly Targeting Croatian International
While I can no longer say that Orlando City hasn’t signed any new players, the club is still moving at its traditionally slow speed as compared to other MLS clubs. We had the signing of Nicolas Rodriguez last week. Now, we have Tom Bogert report of yet another winger prospect for the club in Croatian Marco Pasalic from HNK Rijeka, though it is not a done deal. Hopefully the other targets Bogert mentions are of the striker variety.
Pride Preseason Begins
The 2024 NWSL champions are back to defend their title. The Orlando Pride returned to training on Tuesday. The club hasn’t needed to add many pieces, though some of the players already here, like Simone Charley and Grace Chanda, haven’t actually played any minutes for the Pride yet. Most of the chemistry is in place for Seb Hines, but reinforcing those bonds will be the challenge as the Pride look to repeat.
USMNT at Inter&Co Tonight
Hopefully you have tickets to the USMNT friendly match versus Costa Rica at Inter&Co Stadium tonight. The match starts at 7 p.m. and there are television and streaming options if you’re not going in person. Despite the squad having 14 players with three or fewer caps, Mauricio Pochettino does not consider this an “alternative” squad, nor does he want the players to think of themselves like that.
Girma Reportedly Nearing Completion of Chelsea Move
USWNT defender Naomi Girma is reportedly headed to Chelsea FC Women for a record $1.1 million transfer fee. That is a very big chunk of change for San Diego FC to use to try to replace one of the best defenders in the world. The deal is not complete as of Tuesday evening, but according to the original report from The Athletic, it is close to being done. Girma would be the first women’s soccer player to earn a transfer fee of over $1 million.
MLS Transfer Updates
Other MLS clubs keep on putting pen to paper when it comes to new players. The Chicago Fire are bringing in Jonathan Bamba on a Designated Player deal from La Liga side Celta de Vigo. The Luca de la Torre loan from Spain’s RC Celta de Vigo to San Diego FC is also official.
Cucho Hernandez evidently wants to stay with the Columbus Crew, though he is still waiting on a new offer.
Free Kicks
- I know you might think that Orlando City has a lot to do personnel-wise as the preseason begins, but evidently, the Lions didn’t make the Top 5.
- EUFA Champions League is in full swing, with big names Liverpool and Barcelona winning yesterday. There’s also more to come today.
- Former Orlando Pride player Alanna Kennedy signed a one-year contract with Angel City FC.
- Keep your eyes peeled later today for the NWSL schedule drop.
That will do it for today. Stay warm out there, my friends. Vamos Orlando!
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