Lion Links: 9/15/23

It’s finally Friday! I don’t know about you, but this week has felt like forever for me. I don’t have many plans this weekend beyond touring some apartments, packing, and working. Regardless, I’m looking forward to checking out some soccer when I can and enjoying being outside without melting into a puddle. Let’s get into today’s links!

Pedro Gallese Impressed During International Break

Orlando City goalkeeper Pedro Gallese stood out among the many MLS players who represented their countries during the recent international break. Gallese came up with six saves in Peru’s scoreless draw on the road against Paraguay, and then did well against Brazil in a 1-0 loss. It was further proof towards how important it was that the Lions signed him to a new contract last December, as Gallese’s form is consistent at the club and international level. Wilder Cartagena and Facundo Torres were also noted for receiving some valuable minutes with Peru and Uruguay, respectively.

Orlando Pride Focused Ahead of Sunday’s Match

The Orlando Pride are back in action Sunday night for a pivotal match with the North Carolina Courage at Exploria Stadium. After losing their past two games, the Pride are ninth in the league standings and need a win to insert themselves back in the playoff race. They take on a Courage team that is third in the league and just won the NWSL Challenge Cup. However, the Courage enter this game on short rest and have not won a league game since July 1 (0-2-2). Pride defender Emily Madril spoke on how the team is focused on winning its remaining four matches, starting with Sunday’s.

Orlando City and Orlando Pride Partner With Inter&Co

Inter&Co, which offers finance solutions and digital commerce services, was named the official financial institution of both Orlando City and the Orlando Pride as part of a new partnership. It’s the Brazilian company’s first partnership with an NWSL club, and it’ll be interesting to see what kinds of collaborations come from this partnership in the future. Fans can learn more about the company at tomorrow’s game between Orlando City and the Columbus Crew. It does feel a little wrong to partner with a company named Inter though.

Orlando City B Plays Chicago Fire II Tonight

Orlando City B has a chance to clinch a spot in the MLS NEXT Pro playoffs when it takes on Chicago Fire II tonight at 7 p.m. The same can be said for Chicago, making tonight’s match a critical one for both sides. The Young Lions have excelled offensively this year, recording 236 key passes and 56 goals. Of those goals, 11 have come from outside the box, the second most in the league. Forward Jack Lynn remains tied in the Golden Boot race with New York City FC II’s Matt Myers, with both sitting on 18 goals. Lynn is expected on the bench in Orlando on Saturday night, however, so he may not make the trip to Chicago. Hopefully the Young Lions can get the job done tonight on the road and qualify for the playoffs for the first time.

Free Kicks

•  EA Sports FC 24 player ratings are out and Martin Ojeda has the highest rating of Orlando City players. As for NWSL players, Marta has the 11th highest rating, while former Pride forward Alex Morgan takes the top spot.
• Sporting Kansas City re-signed Designated Player Alan Pulido to a three-year contract. The forward has been great this year, scoring 13 goals for Kansas City.
• The Vancouver Whitecaps signed versatile attacker Junior Hoilett on a deal through the rest of the 2023 season. A free agent, the 33-year-old most recently played for Reading in England and should give Vancouver a boost to its attack.
• Portland Timbers midfielder Diego Chara had a successful appendectomy and may miss multiple games while he recovers.
• A Colorado Rapids supporters group released a statement showing its dissatisfaction with the club and ownership during an abysmal season.

• American defender Sam Vines won’t be taking part in Antwerp’s Champions League games in the group stage due to an error.

That’s all I have for you today. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend!