Lion Links
Lion Links: 11/28/22

Merry Monday morning, Mane Landers! We are one sleep away from the USMNT’s match against Iran. I quite literally switched my work schedule so that I can be off to watch this match for the U.S. There is no shame if you are not able to do so. I had to watch the first two matches at work. However, if you are able to be at a watch party for this important match, do so. Let’s get to the links.
USMNT Ready for Iran
The USMNT will play Iran in the final match of the group stage for each country. The U.S. needs to win to advance to the knockout round of the World Cup. The last time the two teams met in a World Cup match was in 1998 when Iran defeated the Yanks 2-1 in the group stage. The U.S. will be looking for a very different result this go around. Iran is the 20th ranked team in the world according to FIFA’s rankings while the U.S. is ranked 16th. Here is everything else you need to know about the USMNT’s next opponent.
The big news ahead of the match involved U.S. Soccer removing the Islamic Republic symbol from the Iranian flag on a social media post. It was done in support of women’s rights in Iran, though the players didn’t know about it until a press conference. Walker Zimmerman, who is part of the team’s leadership council, reiterated their support of women’s rights. The post was taken down, but Iran’s football federation is reportedly calling on FIFA to ban the USMNT for 10 matches.
US Soccer will restore the Islamic Republic emblem to Iran's flag after briefly removing it. “We wanted to show our support for the women in Iran with our graphic for 24 hours.” State-affiliated Tasnim reports the Iranian FF will ask FIFA to ban the #USMNT for 10 games. pic.twitter.com/nAqr2k3gqJ
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) November 27, 2022
If you weren’t already supporting the U.S. in this match, beating a country that has arrested over 18,000 people who are protesting for women’s rights, including some players from its national team setup, is a really good reason to do so.
Canada Crashes Out of the World Cup
Former Lions Cyle Larin, Richie Laryea, and Kamal Miller all started in Canada’s 4-1 loss to Croatia on Sunday. The Canucks scored in the second minute to take a 1-0 lead over Croatia. Alphonso Davies made history as it was Canada’s first goal in a men’s World Cup. It all went downhill from there, with Croatia scoring four unanswered goals to eliminate Canada from the World Cup. Canada will play its final match of the 2022 World Cup on Thursday against Morocco.
World Cup Group Stage Heats Up
It was a day of upsets in the other two matches on Sunday. Last Wednesday, Costa Rica lost 7-0 to Spain and Japan beat Germany, 2-1. Costa Rica looked helpless, and Japan defeated a traditional powerhouse. On Sunday, Los Ticos stepped up and blanked Japan 1-0. It took Costa Rica until the 81st minute for Keysher Fuller to put the Concacaf team on top. It was Costa Rica’s first goal and first shot on target of the tournament. On Thursday, Costa Rica will play a German side that found a late goal in a 1-1 draw with Spain. After a scoreless first half, Alvaro Morata gave Spain the lead in the 62nd minute, but Niclas Füllkrug gave Germany hope with an equalizer in the 83rd. Germany will still need to defeat Costa Rica on Thursday to have any chance at advancing to the Round of 16.
Morocco stunned Belgium with a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Romain Saïss and Zakaria Aboukhlal in the second half. After winning, Morocco now finds itself in a great position to advance and has a chance to win Group F in its match against Canada.
Reports Link Sergio Busquets, Lionel Messi With Inter Miami
Miami is reportedly bringing in Sergio Busquets next season.
Sergio Busquets will sign for Inter Miami next season, reports @juanmacastano pic.twitter.com/jVNTR668Dr
— B/R Football (@brfootball) November 27, 2022
Sunday also brought more (but not new) reports of Lionel Messi reportedly being set to sign with Inter Miami CF following the World Cup. Messi is expected to join Miami from Paris Saint-Germain following the European season. The 35-year-old would likely become the highest-paid player in MLS history if he were to join Miami. Busquets and Messi were teammates at FC Barcelona and David Beckham would have to break the bank to bring both in.
There is no telling how these players would fit under Miami’s salary cap or how they would make everyone fit into three Designated Player slots.
Free Kicks
- It is incredibly rare that I agree with Wayne Rooney, but it does happen. Rooney called out English fans for booing after the draw against the USMNT. He said that such fans are “stubborn about recognizing the qualities of the opposition.” He is in a position to know.
- Messi and Argentina played Mexico in front of 88,966 fans, the largest crowd at the World Cup since Brazil beat Italy in the 1994 World Cup final in the Rose Bowl.
- Florida State University’s women’s soccer team once again advanced to the College Cup after defeating the Arkansas Razorbacks. The Seminoles will face the University of North Carolina in the semifinals.
- A pair of German soccer fans were stopped by security for sporting rainbow-colored apparel.
That will do it for today. Go USA!
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.

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
- Alex Freeman will take part in this year’s MLS All-Star Skills Challenge and here’s everything you need to know before it takes place on Tuesday.
- Arsenal signed Canadian forward Olivia Smith from Liverpool for a reported record $1.34 million transfer fee. The 20-year-old was Liverpool’s Player of the Season after scoring nine goals in 25 appearances this past season.
- FC Cincinnati’s Evander was named MLS Player of the Matchday, forcing me to once again wonder what life would be like if he was playing in Orlando. The Brazilian had a brace in a 3-0 win over Inter Miami, furthering his case for MLS MVP.
- A 12-year ban of away fans in Argentina’s leagues will gradually be lifted, starting with Rosario Central’s match against Lanus on Saturday.
That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend!
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.

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.
- Tierna Davidson signed a contract extension with NJ/NY Gotham FC that will keep her at the club through 2027.
- FC Dallas is reportedly finalizing a deal for Haitian winger Louicius Don Deedson, who recorded seven goals and nine assists for Odense BK in Denmark’s second division this past year.
- American midfielder Johnny Cardoso officially made the move to Atletico Madrid, joining the Spanish club on a five-year contract.
- Cristiani Girelli scored the late winner for Italy in a 2-1 victory against Norway to claim a spot in the Women’s European Championship semifinals. Girelli had a brace in the match, while Ada Hegerberg scored Norway’s lone goal.
- Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham underwent surgery for a nagging shoulder injury and may miss the next two or three months.
- After an investigation into alleged match fixing, UEFA banned Montenegrin club Arsenal Tivat from European competitions for 10 years. Tivat player Nikola Celebic was banned from activities relating to soccer for life, along with the club’s sporting director, Ranko Krgovic.
That’s all I have for you this time around, Mane Landers. Stay hydrated and have a great Thursday!
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.

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
- Former Orlando Pride midfielder Taylor Flint (nee Kornieck) has signed a new contract with Racing Louisville through the 2028 season.
- Pasalic wasn’t the only player added to the MLS All-Star squad. Five other players were added to represent MLS.
- Bay FC has acquired Forward Onyeka Gamero from FC Barcelona B on a contract running through the 2028 season.
- Denver’s 2026 NWSL expansion team is reportedly close to signing Nick Cushing as the club’s first head coach from Manchester City Women.
- FIFA has announced the ticketing process for the 2026 World Cup. The tickets will be sold in phases due to expected high demand. I’m trying to figure out if I’ll be able to go see a match some when the time comes.
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!
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