Lion Links: 8/14/23

Merry Monday morning, Mane Landers. It’s feels like it has been a while, but Orlando City and the Orlando Pride are both back in action this coming Sunday. Nothing like a double match day to get back into the swing of things. Of course, we still have several days until then, so let’s get to the links.

Orlando’s 2023 Stars Shine

Miguel Gallardo and Gabrielle Amado highlighted the star players so far this season for Orlando City and the Orlando Pride in the latest Orlando Soccer Insider. Wilder Cartagena’s defense, Ivan Angulo’s offensive contributions, and Rafael Santos’ growth following Luca Petrasso’s injury are featured. It wouldn’t be a complete segment without a Duncan McGuire interview regarding his goal scoring prowess.

For the Pride, Adriana’s attacking versatility, Julie Doyle’s resurgence, and Haley McCutcheon’s willingness to play wherever needed is spotlighted. There is also Messiah Bright’s interview regarding her rookie season with the Pride.

Getting to know Emily Madril

The Orlando Pride’s Emily Madril has played every minute of every match in the regular season and the Challenge Cup for the club. It took a little bit for her to adjust to the NWSL, but has proven to be a good pick for the Pride. In this video she touches on her style of play, her favorite moments with the club, and her newfound love of cooking.

Orlando City B Rallies on Road to Beat NYCFC II

I’m entirely serious when I say that if you are not watching Orlando City B matches, what are you even doing with your life? OCB scores goals, gives up goals, comes back from deficits, and gives up leads. Sometimes, OCB gives up a free kick to the competition in second-half stoppage time — like last night. It is almost never boring, and that was the case once again as OCB defeated NYCFC II last night 4-3. Jack Lynn and Shak Mohammed each notched a brace in the victory.

Premier League Results

The 2023-2024 English Premier League season continued on Sunday. In the early match, Brentford and Tottenham drew 2-2 in a back-and-forth match, with Spurs taking the lead, going behind, and eventually equalizing. It was Spurs’ first match following Harry Kane’s departure, with James Maddison replacing him in the No. 10 jersey.

In the late match, Liverpool and Chelsea played to a 1-1 draw with both clubs having a goal taken away by VAR for offside. Mo Salah provided the assist for Luis Diaz’s goal, but for the first time since joining Liverpool he failed to score on opening day, and he was not very happy to be subbed off.

The opening week finishes up today with Manchester United taking on Wolves at Old Trafford.

Free Kicks

• Former Orlando Pride player and Orlando City Soccer Club youth coach Sarah Hagen was named head coach of the De Pere High School girls’ soccer team.
• Eder Militão tore his ACL, meaning he will be out for six months for Real Madrid. This is the second ACL injury for Real Madrid as Thibaut Courtois suffered the same injury.

• The U.S. U-15 National Team is champion of Concacaf on the men’s side, having defeated Mexico, 4-2.

• It seems that the battle for Moises Caicedo has been won by Chelsea.

• Italy coach Roberto Mancini has resigned. Mancini won a European Championship in 2021, but failed to make the last World Cup. The team will look to name a new coach in the next few days.
• Neymar was rumored to go to either to MLS — not really — or the Saudi Pro League. It seems that a move to Al Hilal is close to being done.
• The Women’s World Cup continues tomorrow with Spain taking on Sweden in the semifinal round.

That will do it for today. Remember to check back as we prepare you for the upcoming matches this weekend. Vamos Orlando!