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Lion Links: 3/25/23

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Happy Saturday, Mane Landers! For Orlando City, it is match day at Subaru Park against the Philadelphia Union. For myself, it is moving day. My wife and I are just moving a few minutes from our current place, so I’m hoping it should be quick and painless. We also have a couple friends coming to lend a hand. One is actually a Nashville SC fan, but we won’t hold that against him this time, since he too is pitching in when he could otherwise be watching soccer. But enough about my moving woes, let’s get to the links!

Lions Prepare for Philadelphia Union

When Orlando City takes on the Philadelphia Union, both teams will be missing key players. Starting goal keeper Pedro Gallese has been a shining star for the Lions this season, but it is now backup Mason Stajduhar’s time to shine and he is ready to make the most of his opportunity.

“In general, you always have to stay ready,” Stajduhar said earlier this week. “Last week versus Charlotte, Jack Lynn was a great example of it. Went from not being on the team to being on the roster and probably not playing and ends up playing. He [did] a good job at being ready and taking advantage of the opportunity. That’s an example of you always have to be ready no matter what.”

Additional missing Lions include Facundo Torres, Wilder Cartagena, Michael Halliday, Thomas Williams, Favian Loyola, and Alex Freeman, who are all on international duty. The Union are expected to miss nine players of their own. Notable absences include Daniel Gazdag, Julian Carranza, Jose Martinez, Damion Lowe, and Jack McGlynn.

Seven Orlando Pride Matches to Air Locally

The Orlando Pride will broadcast seven matches locally this season in a partnership with FOX 35 Plus sporting an all-women crew of broadcasters. These broadcast will include pregame and postgame coverage. It’s the Pride’s first local TV deal since a four-game package on Bright House (now Spectrum) back in 2016 and should help boost the club’s profile. Leah Secondo, Kacey White, Maura Sheridan, and Duda Pavão each bring a unique background and voice to the broadcast team that will call the games.

“We bring different facets as well, different generations of broadcasting, playing, and our experiences getting to this level and I think that’s important,” Secondo said, “They went out and tried to find people that not only were talented one time on the field but have the background and experience. It brings the level of play that you’re going to see on the field through the broadcasts.”

The Pride’s first local game on FOX 35 Plus will be this Sunday in an away match at Providence Park against Portland Thorns FC. Match coverage begins at 5 p.m.

USMNT Puts Grenada on Full Blast in 7-1 Win

The United States Men’s National Team had no trouble dispatching Grenada on the road Friday night, winning 7-1. Weston McKennie and Ricardo Pepi each notched a brace in the game but the real star was Christian Pulisic, who pretty much did whatever he wanted — goals, assists, you name it — and Grenada could only rack up fouls to try to keep him under wraps. Former Lion Daryl Dike got into the game in the second half but the game was already well out of reach and there wasn’t much service for the big striker. Prior to Friday night, the U.S. had never won a game by a final score of 7-1, so…Scorigami achieved! The Yanks will host El Salvador at Exploria Stadium in Orlando on Monday night, needing a draw (or better) to advance.

Folarin Balogun and the USMNT

England youth international and rising Arsenal star Folarin Balogun has been in talks with USMNT interim head coach Anthony Hudson after posting a cryptic message on social media which suggests he is frustrated with England leaving him out of the Euro 2024 qualifying squad. This season, Balogun has been on loan at Ligue 1 club Reims, where he has racked up 17 goals so far in 27 appearances.

“He’s out here having a bit of a break and then some training and we’ve had some discussions. So yeah, now it’s about him just enjoying the rest of his trip,” said Hudson, confirming that Balogun met with the USMNT at their training base outside Orlando.

“It’s been good because it’s been an opportunity for us just to share about our program and who we are and what we do. And again, that’s it. I hope we get the chance to speak to him again. So it’s been good to meet him and I know a few of the guys have spoken to him as well.”

USMNT captain Pulisic has spoken to the media to welcome Balogun should he choose to join the Yanks.

“Obviously, I’ve seen that he’s in Florida. I haven’t really spoken to him personally. But I know some of the guys that know him from previous teams or whatever have reached out to him and spoken to him. Obviously, from our side, we’d love to have him.”

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That is all I have for you folks. I hope you enjoy catching the road matches, as we have all three clubs back in action this weekend. For all three, I say — vamos Orlando!

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.

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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.

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

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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.

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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.

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  • 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!

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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.

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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.

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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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