Lion Links: 9/11/23

Merry Monday morning, Mane Landers. We don’t do politics here at The Mane Land, but we do honor the memory of those who lost their lives on that tragic day 22 years ago today. As you go through your day, keep in mind those important in your life, and let them know how you are thinking of them. I know I will. I am also going to be grateful that I get to cover and support Orlando City, the Orlando Pride, and OCB. Let’s get to the links.

Luca Petrasso, Celia Spotlighted During FIFA Break

If you were curious about Luca Petrasso, there is a good interview from the Orlando City defender in the latest episode of Orlando City Insider. Evan Weston and Miguel Gallardo also looked back at Orlando City’s win over FC Cincinnati and outlined the challenges facing the Lions with the departure of Ercan Kara. The pair also spoke about the Orlando Pride’s playoff chances, and Celia sat down for an interview. It’s always nice to learn about the players’ backgrounds and their thoughts on the club and their place in it.

USMNT Outlasts Uzbekistan, Preps for Oman

Despite the 3-0 victory, the U.S. struggled in the final third of the pitch against Uzbekistan on Saturday night. Tim Weah got things started in the fourth minute of play, but the U.S. did not score again until Ricardo Pepi’s second-half stoppage time goal. Christian Pulisic added another goal on a penalty kick to finish the scoring. In between the first and second goals, the U.S. had a hard time connecting passes and creating chances.

Gregg Berharlter knows the U.S. will need to improve going forward, and the first opportunity to do so comes tomorrow night against Oman at Allianz Field in Minnesota. Other than the absence of Gio Reyna and Tyler Adams due to injury, Berhalter has brought in a first-choice squad for these friendlies. Hopefully, the USMNT can clean things up against Oman.

Revolution, Germany Part Ways with Coaches

It often feels like when there is one coaching change in a sport, a bunch more follow. The big news in MLS is the resignation of former USMNT coach Bruce Arena from the New England Revolution. On July 30, Arena was put on administrative leave pending an investigation. That investigation found merit to the allegations leading to Arena’s resignation.

Internationally, Germany fired Hansi Flick following a 4-1 loss to Japan. Despite the result, Flick said he felt he was still the man for the job, but the German Football Association did not agree. Germany have not won any of their past five matches. For the next friendly Germany will be coached by committee.

Courage Win Challenge Cup

It was a Challenge Cup to be forgotten for the Orlando Pride, but for the North Carolina Courage it ended up being a trophy. The Courage defeated Racing Louisville 2-0 to capture a second straight Challenge Cup. The Courage are the first club to win multiple Challenge Cups, though the second one was delayed due to a two-and-half-hour lightning delay. Ultimately, the weather couldn’t stop North Carolina from celebrating a big victory.

Free Kicks

• Manchester United’s Antony is taking a leave of absence due to allegations of abuse by the player from three women. There is no timeline for his return.
• Neymar received a plaque for becoming Brazil’s all-time scoring leader, breaking Pele’s scoring record. There is an asterisk though since the award is for goals scored against national teams. As such, there are some Brazilians that are saying Pele is still the leader.
• Luis Rubiales resigned as president of the Spanish soccer federation after intense pressure from players, fans, and the general public for an unwanted kiss with Spanish footballer Jennifer Hermoso.
• Former USMNT coach Bob Bradley returned to manage Stabaek in the Norwegian Eliteserien. Bradley previously coached Stabaek in 2014 and 2015.

That will do it for today. Please check back with us as we preview the upcoming matches for Orlando City, the Orlando Pride, and OCB. The USMNT is back in action tomorrow. Go USA!