Connect with us

Lion Links

Lion Links: 7/12/22

Published

3 years ago

on

Happy Tuesday, everyone. It was a pretty good weekend for Orlando soccer, as the ladies and gentlemen in purple took six of the nine points on offer. Unfortunately, things aren’t always perfect, but we’ll take what we can get. There’s lots of stuff to talk through today, so let’s get to it.

Cesar Araujo Makes Team of the Week

Following his performance in Orlando City’s 1-0 win over Inter Miami on Saturday, Cesar Araujo has been named to the bench of the latest edition of the MLS Team of the Week. Frankly, a place on the bench seems a little harsh considering he had a mildly absurd eight tackles while also drawing nine fouls. In general, Araujo was the best player on the field for either team, and only a goal or an assist would have improved what was already an excellent performance. Regardless, it’s nice to see him recognized in some way. Here’s hoping he keeps up the good work.

Orlando Pride Partner With Special Olympics

The Orlando Pride have partnered with Special Olympics Florida as part of the 2022 Nationwide Community Impact Program. Gunny Jónsdóttir will serve as the Pride’s ambassador for the program. The club has already held events as part of that partnership, as Exploria Stadium hosted last month’s opening ceremony of the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games. The Pride also welcomed Orlando’s OUC Eagles at last Friday’s victory over the Houston Dash. The Eagles won the 7-v-7 Division 1 Unified Soccer event, and were honored at halftime of the Pride’s win as a result.

USWNT Squeaks Past Mexico, Wins Group A

In the final match of the Concacaf W Championship, the United States Women’s National Team struggled in the offensive end against Mexico and needed an extremely late goal from Kristie Mewis to defeat the host nation, 1-0. The United States moves on to the semifinals on Thursday at 7 p.m. with plenty to improve on after struggling to put away Mexico — even after the hosts had a player sent off with about 20 minutes remaining. Still, the Yanks found a way to get the result and made it through the group without conceding a goal.

Meanwhile, Ashley Hatch’s tournament is over for the USWNT, as the Washington Spirit forward picked up an injury and was replaced by Sam Coffey.

Gabriel Slonina Set for Chelsea Deal

According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea has reached a verbal agreement with the Chicago Fire for the transfer of goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina. The transfer guru notes that the deal will be for $10 million, not including add-ons, and that Chelsea will submit an official bid later this week to confirm the deal. Slonina will then be loaned back to the Fire, although it’s unclear for how long. Current Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy is 30 years old, and likely still has a decent amount of time at the peak of his powers. It’s possible that Chelsea could look to duplicate what the club did with Thibaut Courtois — signing the Belgian in 2011 but sending him on loan deals until the 2014-2015 season, when he took over the starting job from Petr Cech.

Landon Donovan Reportedly a Finalist for San Jose Job

Landon Donovan is reportedly one of six finalists to become the new head coach of the San Jose Earthquakes. San Jose fired Matias Almeyda back in April, with Alex Covelo managing the team as interim head coach ever since. Donovan has reportedly made it to the final round of the interview process, and if he gets the job he will return to the team where he won two MLS Cups before joining the in-state rival LA Galaxy. Donovan is in his third season as the head coach of the USL Championship’s San Diego Loyal, and he led the team to the playoffs last year. If he gets the job, Donovan will join fellow United States Men’s National Team players Steve Cherundolo and Pablo Maestroni as U.S. internationals coaching in MLS.

Luis Suarez Speaks On MLS Offers

Luis Suarez said he has received offers from several Major League Soccer clubs, and that he has not closed the door on anything. However, he also said that he wants to be in the best possible shape for November’s World Cup, and that if a team fails to qualify for the playoffs and his season ends in October, he doesn’t like the idea of not playing for a month. He also noted that some of the interested parties don’t have “slots” (either Designated Player, international, or both) open at the moment, meaning any deal would need to wait until after the 2022 MLS season. Suarez also shot down rumors that he and Lionel Messi have plans to end their careers together at Inter Miami — something that will be welcome news to the ears of Orlando City fans. Although, I suppose he’d hardly come out and tell the world if that really was their plan, would he?

Free Kicks

  • A rumor no longer, former Orlando City captain Nani has signed in the A-League with the Melbourne Victory for two years.
  • The United States Women’s National Team will reportedly play a game at Audi Field during the August/September international window.

  • Premier League teams have spent more than $850 million so far this window, with Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham, and Manchester City accounting for almost half that number.
  • Someone locked down an Irish flag for Jake Mulraney.

  • The Iranian national team has fired its manager, Dragan Skokic, just four months before the start of the World Cup. The news should prick the ears of USMNT fans, with the Yanks set to take on Iran in their final group stage match of the 2022 World Cup.

That does it for me today. Y’all stay safe out there.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

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.

Published

1 day ago

on

July 18, 2025

By

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.

Free Kicks

That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend!

Continue Reading

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.

Published

2 days ago

on

July 17, 2025

By

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.

Free Kicks

  • 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!

Continue Reading

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.

Published

3 days ago

on

July 16, 2025

By

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.

Free Kicks

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!

Continue Reading

Trending