Lion Links
Lion Links: 5/4/23
Orlando City-Charlotte FC will air on CBS Golazo Network, Alex Freeman’s hard work pays off, Orlando Pride announce theme nights, and much more.

May the fourth be with you, Mane Landers. Don’t worry, I won’t beat you over the head with too many Star Wars references today as I’m sure you will deal with plenty of them today. I’ll actually confess that, while I enjoy the franchise, I didn’t watch my first Star Wars movie until catching Revenge of the Sith on TV one summer. It pretty much ruined my first viewing of A New Hope a couple years later in college. Since then, I’ve seen every movie and series in the franchise, except for The Empire Strikes Back. I know, I know. But before you all toss me into a Sarlacc pit, let’s dive into today’s links!
Orlando City Starts U.S. Open Cup Will Air on CBS Golazo Network
The Lions will begin their U.S Open Cup title defense the road against Charlotte FC on Tuesday at 7 p.m. It will be the first of four matches streamed on CBS Sports Golazo Network for the tournament’s round of 32. Launched last month, CBS Sports Golazo Network is a 24-hour soccer streaming network and available for free through the CBS Sports App, Pluto TV, CBSSports.com, and Paramount+. This will be Orlando City’s first match of this year’s tournament after lifting the trophy last year in a championship run that included six wins at home.
Lions Ride Momentum Into Montreal
Before that U.S. Open Cup match, the Lions will face off against CF Montreal on Saturday. It will be the Lions’ first trip to Canada since losing 2-0 to Montreal in the playoffs last season. After a rough start this season, Montreal has won its past three games in all competitions without conceding a goal. The Lions also enter this match with some momentum behind them, beating the LA Galaxy 2-0 at home thanks to goals from Designated Players Ercan Kara and Facundo Torres. Cesar Araujo’s 27 fouls won are the second most in the league and he will make his 50th appearance across all competitions as a Lion if he suits up on Saturday. The club will have a watch part at Kiwi’s Pub & Grill in Altamonte Springs for this weekend’s match.
Alex Freeman’s Memorable Weekend
Orlando City Homegrown Player Alex Freeman made his debut for the first team this past weekend, coming off the bench to play in front of a packed Exploria Stadium. While he was only on the field for a few minutes, it was the culmination of his hard work to reach that point after training with the first team for over a year.
“I did plan to have more minutes for him today,” Lions head coach Oscar Pareja said, “We want these guys from the academy to come and be part of that. I know what it means for the player to play two minutes in his debut and just put the feet on the pound. We say that in Spanish, and it’s a saying that means you are already there.”
The 18-year-old defender then played for Orlando City B on Sunday, scoring his third goal of the season in the team’s 3-2 win over Toronto FC II. Freeman now leads the Young Lions in goals as OCB sits near the top of the Eastern Conference. Hopefully more opportunities are headed Freeman’s way as he and other young players continue to develop.
Orlando Pride Announce Theme Nights
The Orlando Pride announced six theme nights at Exploria Stadium for this NWSL season. These events will take place once a month and include the chance to purchase specialty merchandise. The first theme night will take place on May 20 for Pups of Pride, which will allow fans to bring their dogs to the match. Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando will also be in attendance with adoptable animals. Pride in Our City will be on June 11 as the club celebrates Orlando’s LGBTQIA+ community and remembers the 49 lives lost in the Pulse shooting seven years ago. The Pride’s final game of the season on Oct. 15 will recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month as well. This season will also include the first Star Wars Night on Aug. 25, and fans can purchase tickets to that match for $5.04 in honor of today’s date.
Lionel Messi Will Reportedly Become a Free Agent This Summer
According to Fabrizio Romano, Lionel Messi will leave Paris Saint-Germain when his contract expires this summer. There were rumors he’d stay, but Messi’s father reportedly told the French club about the decision a month ago.
This news come after he was fined and suspended by PSG for two weeks after he made an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia and failed to report to training earlier this week. Once again, Messi will become one of the most sought after free agents in soccer, with Barcelona, Miami, and Saudi Arabia as possible destinations where he could wind up.
Free Kicks
- Here’s a fantastic look behind the scenes of the Pride’s road win over the San Diego Wave. It’s pretty cinematic, and includes pep talks from Head Coach Seb Hines and his assistant, Giles Barnes.
- You can also enjoy the sights and sounds from Orlando’s huge win at home against the Galaxy.
- Despite winning their first game of the year, the Pride are still last in CBS Sports‘ NWSL power rankings.
- A drone toured Exploria Stadium to give a unique perspective of the Lions’ and Pride’s home.
- D.C. United’s Christian Benteke won MLS Goal of the Matchday for his bicycle kick against Charlotte FC.
- The New York Red Bulls signed 18-year-old midfielder Ronald Donkor to a contract through the 2026 season, with an option for 2027 as well. Donkor joins the Red Bulls after playing with Guidars FC in Mali and he will take up an international roster spot.
- The North Carolina Courage and NJ/NY Gotham FC battled to a 1-1 draw in the NWSL Challenge Cup.
- Erling Haaland scored his 35th goal of the season in Manchester City’s 3-0 win over West Ham to break the English Premier League’s single-season scoring record.
- Eintracht Frankfurt scored three goals in the second half to beat VfB Stuttgart 3-2 and advance to the DfB Pokal final against RB Leipzig on June 3.
- Real Madrid is reportedly closing in on a deal with Borussia Dortmund to sign English midfielder Jude Bellingham.
- French forward Antoine Griezmann scored twice in Atletico Madrid’s 5-1 win over Cadiz CF, helping his team move into second in the La Liga standings.
- A fan was arrested for shining a laser in Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk’s face when his team played Arsenal earlier this week.
That’s all I have for you today. I hope you all have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week!
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!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 7/15/25
Lions earn weekly recognition, United States Men’s National Team announces friendlies, talking points about the women’s Euros, and more.

Good morning, everyone. I write to you all from the great state of South Carolina, as I continue my summer of frequent and widespread traveling. We have a lot to talk through this morning, so let’s wish a happy birthday to Orlando City B’s Tristan Himes and get into today’s links!
Lions Earn Weekly Recognition
A pair of Orlando City players have earned some recognition for their contributions during the Lions’ 1-1 draw with CF Montreal on Saturday. First up is Martin Ojeda, who garnered a nomination for the MLS Goal of the Matchday for this pinpoint, low free kick he scored which gave Orlando a lead in the first half.
We also can’t forget about Alex Freeman, who got a shoutout as a well-performing young player due to another solid performance at right back. Here’s hoping both men keep up the good work!
USMNT Announces October Friendlies
The United States Men’s National Team has announced that it will play friendlies against Ecuador and Australia during the October international window. The USMNT will face Ecuador on Oct. 10 at Q2 Stadium in Austin, TX, before playing Australia at Dick’s Sporting Good Park in Commerce City, CO. Both opponents are ranked in the top 25 in the world, and have already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The games are exactly the sort of contests that the U.S. should be scheduling in the buildup to the tournament, and it’ll be interesting to see the performances of whatever roster Mauricio Pochettino chooses to deploy.
Women’s Euro Talking Points
The group stage of the women’s European Championship has come to an end, and there are plenty of things to talk about while we wait for the knockout stages to start later this week. Teams like Italy and Sweden have exceeded the expectations that many people had for them ahead of the tournament starting, while others like the Netherlands and Denmark had poor showings compared to what was expected of them. Alexia Putellas has unsurprisingly shone, and the quarterfinal matchup between France and Germany is the one that many people will have circled on their calendars.
Club World Cup Takeaways
Now that the Club World Cup has come to a conclusion, what did we learn from the tournament? For one, the quality of play was mostly good, as teams certainly took the competition seriously. Lessons need to be learned when it comes to pricing tickets appropriately and not kicking games off in the middle of the day during the heat of summer, but if the right adjustments are made, it could grow into a really fun competition to look forward to. Brazilian fans were one of the highlights of the tournament, while extremely low attendance numbers for some games were more of a blemish. Overall, the tournament is probably a net positive, but there are absolutely things that can and must be improved upon if it’s going to continue in this form.
Free Kicks
- Martin Ojeda has now gone seven straight matches with a goal contribution, which is a new club record!
- Orlando City dropped one spot to no. 11 in ESPN.com’s MLS power rankings.
- Newcastle United is close to completing a $93.3 million move for Hugo Ekitike.
- Real Madrid has signed left back Alvaro Carreras from Benfica.
- Luka Modric has signed a one-year deal with AC Milan.
That does it for me this morning. Vamos Orlando!
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