Lion Links: 7/26/23

Hello, Mane Landers. I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I’ve just been catching up on the Women’s World Cup matches so far and have been staying busy at work. There is plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.

Getting to Know Felipe

Orlando City midfielder Felipe was the latest Lion featured in the club’s video series aimed at learning more about the players. Felipe shared that he left his home when he was 10 and played a couple of years in Brazil before he moved to Europe and later on to MLS. Even though Felipe left to go to Europe at age 15, he stated that he wouldn’t change anything and believes it was an amazing experience that helped him grow as a better person. When asked which celebrities he would invite for dinner, Felipe chose both the late Pele and Diego Maradona. He also let fans know that he embraces his reputation, doesn’t worry about what people think, and gives everything for his teammates.

USWNT Takes on the Netherlands in World Cup Tonight

After winning 3-0 against Vietnam in its opening match of the 2023 Women’s World Cup, the United States Women’s National Team takes on the Netherlands tonight at 9 p.m. This will be a rematch of the 2019 Women’s World Cup final, where the USWNT beat the Netherlands 2-0. This year, Sophia Smith scored twice and Lindsey Horan added another to get the USWNT off to a good start in Group E against Vietnam. The Dutch side won its opening match as well, beating Portugal 1-0, thanks to a goal from defender Stefanie van der Gragt on a set piece. After tonight’s match, the USWNT final group stage game will be next Tuesday against Portugal.

Leagues Cup Roundup

The Houston Dynamo beat Santos Laguna in the penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw. The Dynamo now lead Orlando City’s group with three points after playing both of their games. The Lions will win the group if they beat Santos Laguna on Saturday or draw and win the penalty shootout. There is also a scenario where a shootout loss would propel the Lions through on tiebreakers. Inter Miami won 4-0 against Atlanta United, with both Lionel Messi and Robert Taylor scoring twice to send Miami into the knockout round. Mazatlan also booked its spot in the next round after beating FC Juarez in a penalty shootout to top its group. FC Dallas won 3-0 against Necaxa, with Eugene Ansah, Sebastian Lletget, and Jesus Ferreira finding the back of the net. There are seven Leagues Cup matches tonight, including CF Montreal facing D.C. United, the Union battling Queretaro, and San Luis taking on the New England Revolution.

MLS Transfer News

In another busy day of transfer moves in Major League Soccer, Toronto FC loaned forward Ayo Akinola to the San Jose Earthquakes for the remainder of the 2023 MLS season. Toronto will receive a 2023 international roster spot, while the Earthquakes will have an option to sign Akinola on a permanent transfer after his loan ends this season. Nashville SC acquired Sam Surridge from Nottingham Forest of the English Premier League on a Designated Player contract through 2026, with an option for the 2027 season. The Philadelphia Union are reportedly close to acquiring forward Tai Baribo from Wolfsberger.

Group A Up for Grabs in Women’s World Cup

There were some fairly surprising results at the Women’s World Cup on Tuesday. There was an upset as the Philippines defeated New Zealand 1-0, with a goal from Sarina Bolden to secure the win at Wellington Regional Stadium. This was the Philippines’ first win at the World Cup and kept the nation’s hopes alive to get to the knockout stage. Elsewhere in the group, Ada Hegerberg sustained a groin injury and wasn’t able to play for Norway in a scoreless draw with Switzerland. Norway remains at the bottom of the group with one point and still hasn’t scored a goal in the competition.

Free Kicks

• Orlando City’s Duncan McGuire and the Orlando Pride’s Messiah Bright are enjoying great rookie seasons in their respective leagues.

• Don’t forget to check out tonight’s friendly at Exploria Stadium, with Fulham taking on Aston Villa at 7 p.m.

• The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup has broken ticket sales records in Australia and New Zealand, and viewership around the world has increased from the 2019 edition of the tournament.
• Here is a breakdown of potential players who could make the roster for the U.S. Men’s National Team for next summer’s 2024 Copa America.
• Toronto’s Lorenzo Insigne will be out for two more weeks as he continues to recover from a calf injury.

That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Wednesday and I’ll see you next time.