Lion Links: 6/29/23

How’s it going, Mane Landers? I hope this Thursday finds you well as we make our way through the work week. Even with the rain, it’s been a pretty hot week here in Florida. Make sure to stay hydrated and keep an eye out for any signs of heat stroke if you plan on braving the outdoors. But for now, let’s cool off with today’s links from around the soccer world.

Orlando Pride Match Rescheduled

For the second time this month, an NWSL Challenge Cup match between the Orlando Pride and NJ/NY Gotham FC has been postponed. Last night’s scheduled match was called off due to severe weather and Gotham experiencing travel delays. The match has been rescheduled for July 23 at 7 p.m. Earlier this month, the Pride’s road match against Gotham had to be rescheduled for Aug. 9 due to poor air quality from wildfires. As a result, the Pride will now play their remaining Challenge Cup matches consecutively from July 23 to Aug. 9. It will be interesting to see how Pride Head Coach Seb Hines decides to line up his team considering he won’t have to worry about league games during that stretch.

Orlando City B Loses to Philadelphia Union II

Although it played well, Orlando City B fell 3-0 to Philadelphia Union II at Osceola County Stadium. It was OCB’s first loss at home this season and the team’s third shutout loss this month. Chris Donovan had a brace for Philadelphia and the Young Lions were unable to capitalize on their many chances. The night also included a lengthy weather delay right before halftime. OCB will aim to get back on track this Sunday when it takes on FC Cincinnati 2 on the road at 7 p.m.

USMNT Cruises to Victory in Gold Cup

The United States Men’s National Team bounced back in the Concacaf Gold Cup with a dominant 6-0 win against St. Kitts & Nevis in the group stage. The Yanks scored three goals within a five-minute span and the defense secured a clean sheet for goalkeeper Sean Johnson. FC Dallas forward Jesus Ferreira had a hat trick, while midfielder Djordje Mihailovic had two goals and two assists. The win puts the U.S. ahead of Jamaica in the group due to goal difference and the Yanks will next face Trinidad & Tobago on Sunday.

Gerardo Martino Named Inter Miami’s Head Coach

Following the firing of Phil Neville earlier this month, Inter Miami named Gerardo “Tata” Martino as its next head coach. Martino’s resume includes winning the MLS Cup with Atlanta United and being named MLS Coach of the Year in 2018. He was most recently Mexico’s manager, coaching the team for last year’s World Cup. It’s also worth noting that Martino has coached Lionel Messi in the past when he was at the helm of Barcelona and Argentina. Martino has his work cut out for him, as Miami has lost its past seven MLS matches. However, reinforcements are on their way and Miami will play in the U.S. Open Cup semifinals in August.

Utah Royals Claim First Pick in NWSL Draft

Utah Royals FC and Bay FC join the NWSL as expansion teams next season and chose their priorities for the NWSL Draft, NWSL Expansion Draft, and more. Utah will get the first overall pick of the NWSL Draft, along with the first pick in the third round, while Bay FC will pick first in the second and fourth rounds. In the expansion draft, Bay City will get the first choice and the two clubs will then alternate picks through 12 rounds. The Royals will also have priority in the waiver wire order and the ranking for the discovery order, while Bay FC has priority in the distribution order.

Free Kicks

• The 2024 MLS All-Star Game will take place in Columbus. Although the city has hosted the event before, this will be the first time it is held at Lower.com Field.
• The Chicago Fire added midfielder Ousmane Doumbia as a Designated Player on loan from the Swiss Super League’s FC Lugano for the rest of the 2023 season.
• The New England Revolution are reportedly acquiring winger Tomás Chancalay on loan from Racing Club in Argentina.
• Justen Glad won MLS Goal of the Matchday for his late equalizer against Minnesota United.

• Leicester City is reportedly trying to sign American goalkeeper Zack Steffen from Manchester City.
• Arsenal officially signed forward Kai Havertz from Chelsea for a reported transfer fee of over $85 million.

That’s all I have for you today. I hope you all have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week.