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Lion Links: 10/11/21

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4 years ago

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Merry Monday morning, Mane Landers. You’ll notice there was no exclamation point at the end of that greeting, which is due to losses by the Orlando Pride and the United States Men’s National Team this weekend. We should definitely all try to be goldfish as we head into this week.

The Mind Behind Orlando City’s Set Piece Success

Orlando City assistant coach Josema Bazan handles the Lions’ offensive strategy, including on set pieces. While Bazan is responsible for the short corners that Orlando City has taken this season (#BanShortCorners), he’s also helped the team score in recent matches from the corner flag. Both goals in Orlando’s 2-1 win over D.C. United were from corners and Bazan dove into how the team prepares to make the most of set pieces in matches.

Bazan scouts opposing teams by studying how they defend against set pieces to uncover the areas Orlando can exploit in matches and then spending an hour each week in training to prepare the Lions. I find it interesting that, like Ted Lasso, Bazan names the different set piece plays, and can be tight-lipped about which ones are which. While there is plenty of random chance involved in set pieces, Bazan works hard to limit that uncertainty for Orlando in dead ball situations.

“You have to be lucky,” he said. “You’re going to receive 200 crosses, you’re going to touch only five. Maybe one or two are going to be goals. You must believe that this is one of those one or two. … They are random moments. It’s our job to make that [randomness] smaller and smaller.”

Pride Players Continue to Push for Change in the NWSL

Orlando Pride players Alex Morgan and Ali Krieger are allocated players through the U.S. Soccer Federation, meaning their salaries come from U.S. Soccer rather than the club. Regardless, the two are in complete lockstep with their fellow players in advocating for systemic change in the NWSL to better protect players. Krieger praised how the Pride provides her and her teammates with needed support. There are, of course, the resources and facilities, but the Pride’s front office actively engages with players to address any concerns.

“I hope that a lot of teams look at how we as a club here in Orlando handle our players and our staff,” Krieger said. “I feel very proud to be a part of a club that gives us this support and gives us all these resources. Day by day we’re getting better and we’re fighting for more, and they’re listening. They’re willing to do whatever it takes to make us happy. … I really hope that other clubs will use a similar model because I’m proud to be in a club that treats us the way they do.”

USMNT Loses to Panama

The U.S. stumbled in Panama City, losing 1-0 in a World Cup qualifier against Panama with a heavily rotated roster compared to the one that won 2-0 over Jamaica. The Yanks seemed reluctant to build up through the midfield, and instead sent balls over the top. Unfortunately, nothing came of that strategy as the USMNT only had five shots, with none on target. Ricardo Pepi, who scored a brace against Jamaica, came on as a substitute in the 67th minute but wasn’t able to get the U.S. on the scoreboard.

The USMNT now sits second in the Octagon with eight points, placing above third-place Panama due to goal differential. Mexico is at the top of the table after a 3-0 win against Panama while Canada is in fourth and drew 0-0 with Jamaica. The USMNT will try to get back on track when it faces Costa Rica this Wednesday in Columbus.

Keeping Up With Qualifying Around the World

In CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying, Orlando goalkeeper Pedro Gallese and Peru fell 1-0 to Bolivia while Sebas Mendez didn’t play in Ecuador’s 2-1 loss to Venezuela. Brazil’s nine-game win streak in qualifying came to an end after a scoreless draw with Colombia and Lionel Messi scored Argentina’s first goal in a 3-0 win over Uruguay. The next matches will take place this Thursday.

Elsewhere, Nigeria, Mali, and Tanzania all came up with big wins in African qualifiers. The matches continue today and tomorrow with the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Egypt, Ghana, Senegal, and more nations in action. Belgium, Denmark, and Germany can officially qualify for the World Cup depending on today and tomorrow’s results. In AFC qualifying, Japan has a critical game against Australia tomorrow to salvage its campaign after losing two of its first three matches.

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  • Orlando forward Derek Dodson had an assist in Hartford Athletic’s 2-1 loss against the Charleston Battery. The defeat eliminated Hartford from playoff contention with five games left on its schedule. Hartford’s last game of the season is on Oct. 30, meaning Dodson will return from his loan before the MLS regular season ends.
  • After former Pride and Australia national team player Lisa De Vanna made claims of sexual abuse and harassment while playing for the Matildas, Australian players such as Orlando Pride midfielder Emily van Egmond and Sam Kerr made statements regarding the team’s culture.
  • The Seattle Sounders clinched a spot in the playoffs for the 13th consecutive season after winning 4-1 over the Vancouver Whitecaps.
  • Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe scored to lift France to a 2-1 victory against Spain in the UEFA Nations League final.
  • The 2022 FIFA World Cup may be Neymar’s last as the Brazilian forward discussed the mental toll of playing.

That will be it for today’s links. Check back for our coverage throughout the week as Orlando City and the Orlando Pride make playoff pushes.

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 7/2/25

Big names leave Toronto FC, hot conditions in Club World Cup match, FIFPRO makes ACL recommendations, and more.

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19 hours ago

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July 2, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Happy Wednesday, everyone. It already feels like it’s been a long week, as I just got home from being out of town traveling up and down the East Coast for the last few days. The soccer world hasn’t stopped in my absence though, and as usual we have a lot to cover today. Let’s wish a happy birthday to OCB defender Tahir Reid-Brown, and jump into today’s links!

Italians Leave Toronto FC

It’s the end of an era at Toronto FC, as the club has parted ways with both Federico Bernardeschi, and Lorenzo Insigne. The Reds used both of their two buyouts of guaranteed contracts this season in order to get the transactions done, so the club was pretty keen to get them out the door. It’s hard to blame the Reds, as Insigne was the second-highest paid player in the league while Bernardeschi was the fifth highest. They didn’t have much to show for it though, as Bernardeschi had 26 goals and 22 assists in 99 games across all competitions, while Insigne had 19 goals and 17 assists in 76 matches. TFC never made the playoffs while the duo was on the team, and the decision to turn the page is an understandable one.

Difficult Conditions in Juventus vs. Real Madrid

The Club World Cup Round of 16 concluded on Tuesday, with Real Madrid knocking off Juventus 1-0 in afternoon match. Kylian Mbappe made his tournament debut for Madrid as a substitute, but it was Gonzalo Garcia’s 54th-minute goal that made the difference in the game. Juve boss Igor Tudor highlighted the difficult conditions in Miami, saying in his postgame press conference that 10 different players asked to come off the field during the game. Tudor didn’t outright blame the loss on the high heat and humidity during the 3 p.m. kickoff at Hard Rock Stadium, but noted that they were among several factors that made the game a very difficult one for his side.

FIFPRO Makes Recommendations to Curb ACL Tears

Amid a rash of ACL injuries to women’s soccer players, FIFPRO has made some recommendations to cut down on the rate at which they occur. Rather than focusing on things that can’t be controlled, the federation has suggested modifying the calendar, number of games, and the playing surfaces. FIFPRO member Alex Culvin is calling for minimum standards in the women’s game relating to pitch conditions and access to physiotherapists. More research around risk factors is also necessary, as is implementing preventative exercises at the youth levels of the game.

Transfer Rumor Roundup

Summer transfer business is in full swing, so let’s catch up on some of the hot rumors currently flying around. First up, Arsenal is said to be in the final stages of signing Viktor Gyokeres to a five-year deal. Staying in the Premier League, Manchester United is reportedly interested in signing midfielder Fabian Ruiz from Paris Saint-Germain. Juventus reportedly is close to signing Jonathan David after his contract with Lille expired. Finally, Bayern Munich is reportedly preparing a formal offer for Liverpool for Colombian winger Luis Diaz.

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Apparently a non -#usmnt drone has crashed the training session. US Soccer staff aiming to identify it.

— Jeff Carlisle (@jeffreycarlisle.bsky.social) 2025-07-01T17:25:12.954Z

That’s all I have for you this morning. Vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links: 7/1/25

Pride signings, OCB draws, both U.S. national teams in action Wednesday, and more.

Published

2 days ago

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July 1, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

Welcome to July, Mane Landers. If you’re like me, you balanced the excitement and dread of the USMNT advancing on penalty kicks the other night. It was one thing watching Guatemala take out Canada but a whole other level of heart palpitating stress while watching the U.S. avoid a similar fate. There’s no time to relax with plenty of soccer to watch as we head towards Independence Day. Before we get to the links, please join us in wishing Orlando Pride/USWNT defender Emily Sams and OCB defender Clovis Archange each a happy birthday.

Orlando Pride Signings

The Orlando Pride announced a pair of transactions Monday. Midfielder Viviana Villacorta and the club have agreed to exercise the midfielder’s mutual option for the 2026 season. Villacorta was the No. 9 overall pick in the 2021 NWSL Draft. The Pride also signed midfielder Ally Lemos to a new contract through the 2027 season with a mutual option for 2028. The Pride selected Lemos with the No. 9 overall pick of the 2024 NWSL Draft. Orlando continues to lock down current players ahead of time. Now, we wait to see if any new players will be added.

OCB Earns a Point on the Road

Orlando City B played Philadelphia Union II to a 1-1 draw in a Monday afternoon match. Unfortunately, the Young Lions lost the end-of-regulation shootout 4-2 and did not get the additional point. Gustavo Caraballo assisted Jackson Platts on the early goal for OCB. Philadelphia equalized early in the second half. Carlos Mercado was the difference maker in the match, recording a career-high 12 saves.

USMNT’s Gold Cup Run Continues vs. Guatemala

The USMNT will face Guatemala Wednesday night in a 2025 Gold Cup semifinal match. The U.S. advanced past Costa Rica on penalties thanks to a stellar performance from goalkeeper Matt Freese. Guatemala stunned Canada with a second-half equalizer and advanced on penalty kicks. Guatemala has been the overachieving underdog of the competition so far. This will be the USMNT’s 17th Gold Cup semifinal appearance.

USWNT Hosts Canada

The USWNT will host Canada in a third friendly of this international window Wednesday at Washington, D.C.’s Audi Field. The U.S. is coming off two 4-0 victories over the Republic of Ireland. Canada should prove a tougher opponent for Emma Hayes’ squad. There is a possibility that the match will feature two Orlando Pride players — Emily Sams for the U.S. and Zara Chavoshi for Canada. Kerry Abello has returned to her club team after picking up a knock.

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Sources: Bayer Leverkusen are finalizing a deal to sign USMNT attacker Malik Tillman from PSV.Deal in region of $40m.

— Tom Bogert (@tombogert.bsky.social) 2025-06-30T20:36:24.359Z
  • Former Orlando Pride midfielder Erika Tymrak has retired from professional soccer.

That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for Orlando City’s match against Charlotte FC this weekend. Vamos Orlando!

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Lion Links: 6/30/25

Lions fall to FC Cincinnati, USWNT beats Ireland, USMNT defeats Costa Rica in penalties, and more.

Published

3 days ago

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June 30, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Hello, Mane Landers! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I’ve been busy at work but got to catch up with friends at a Chicago White Sox game. Let’s wish a happy birthday to Orlando City midfielder Joran Gerbet, who turns 25 today. Our Lions were the only team in action over the weekend while the Pride and OCB were off. We’ve got plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.

Lions Fall at Home to FC Cincinnati

Orlando City fell 2-1 to FC Cincinnati Saturday at Inter&Co Stadium, seeing its two-match winning streak end. The Lions trailed 2-0, with Evander scoring both goals for FC Cincinnati. Marco Pasalic pulled one back for Orlando, but it was not enough as FC Cincinnati claimed the three points and remain second in the Eastern Conference standings with 39 points. Orlando City is fifth with 33 points. The Lions will travel to face Charlotte FC Saturday at Bank of America Stadium.

Pride and Grace Chanda Exercise Mutual Option for 2026 Season

On Friday, the Orlando Pride announced the club and Grace Chanda reached an agreement to exercise their mutual option for the 2026 season. Chanda joined Orlando last summer but was placed on the Season-Ending Injury list after sustaining an injury while playing for Zambia at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Chanda made her debut earlier this season for the Pride on March 19 and came off the bench against the Washington Spirit in the second half. Chanda has made three appearances for the Pride during the 2025 season.

Pride Sign Zara Chavoshi to New Contract

The Orlando Pride also announced Friday the club has reached an agreement with defender Zara Chavoshi on a new contract. The deal is through the 2027 season, with a mutual option for 2028. Chavoshi joined the club ahead of the 2025 season and became the first player Orlando signed directly out of college, following the NWSL’s abolition of the draft as a mechanism for player acquisition last year. Chavoshi made her debut for the Pride on March 23 against NJ/NY Gotham FC and came off the bench. She made her first professional start on May 3 on the road against the Portland Thorns and played 90 minutes. Chavoshi has made four appearances for the Pride during the 2025 season. Also over the weekend, Chavoshi scored her first goal for the Canadian Women’s National Team in a 4-1 win over Costa Rica in an international friendly.

USWNT Defeats Ireland Again in Friendly

The U.S. Women’s National Team beat Ireland 4-0 Sunday at TQL Stadium in an international friendly. It was the second win in a week over Ireland for the USWNT. Orlando Pride defender Emily Sams started the match and played 90 minutes. Lynn Biyendolo scored the opener, while Izzy Rodriguez scored her first goal for the USWNT to extend the lead to 2-0 going into halftime. In the second half, Yazmeen Ryan and Alyssa Thompson each added a goal to seal another win for the USWNT. The USWNT has won four in a row, and the team’s next match will be against Canada Wednesday at Audi Field. Meanwhile, Gisele Thompson and Orlando Pride defender Kerry Abello have left the U.S. women’s national team training camp due to hamstring injuries. Abello last played for the USWNT on June 3 against Jamaica in a friendly.

USMNT Defeats Costa Rica in Penalties in the Gold Cup

The U.S. Men’s National Team defeated Costa Rica 4-3 in penalties after a 2-2 draw in the Concacaf Gold Cup quarterfinals Sunday at U.S. Bank Stadium. Orlando City defender Alex Freeman started the match and played 90 minutes. The USMNT trailed 1-0 early in the first half, and Malik Tillman missed a penalty that would have tied the match. However, Diego Luna scored the equalizer just before halftime. In the second half, the USMNT struck quickly with a goal from Max Arfsten to take a 2-1 lead. Costa Rica equalized late in the second half, and after 90 minutes, the game went to penalties. After three rounds, Orlando City fullback Alex Freeman buried his penalty past goalkeeper Keylor Navas to tie it 3-3. Goalkeeper Matt Freese made three saves, and in the sixth round, Damion Downs scored the winning goal to secure a spot for the USMNT in the semifinals. The USMNT will face Guatemala Wednesday at Energizer Park.

FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 Weekend Recap

The Round of 16 kicked off in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup over the weekend. On Saturday, Palmeiras beat Botafogo 1-0 after extra time, with Paulinho scoring the winning goal. Former Lion Facundo Torres came off the bench late in the second half and played 35 minutes. In another match that needed extra time, Chelsea beat 10-man Benfica 4-1 to advance. On Sunday, Joao Neves scored twice as Paris Saint-Germain crushed Inter Miami 4-0. Miami was the last MLS team remaining in the tournament and saw its run come to an end in the Round of 16. Bayern Munich defeated Flamengo 4-2 to advance, joining Palmeiras, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain in the quarterfinals. We have two more matches today, as Inter Milan faces Fluminense, while Manchester City takes on Al-Hilal in Orlando at Camping World Stadium.

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

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