Lion Links: 10/10/23

Good morning, everyone. We’re in an international break so, unfortunately, there’s less midweek soccer than usual. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t news. Let’s take a look at the world of soccer in today’s Lion Links.

Ivan Angulo Named to Team of the Matchday Bench

Ivan Angulo has been named to the bench of the MLS Team of the Matchday for his contribution in Orlando City’s 3-2 win over the New England Revolution Saturday night. He assisted on Facundo Torres’ goal for the team’s second in the match in the 37th minute. Angulo then added one for himself just before halftime, which proved to be the game-winner. It was a refreshing performance after his recent struggles in the attack. The goal was Angulo’s fifth of the 2023 MLS season and the assist was his eighth of the year. Our Nic Josey gave him Man of the Match honors in our player grades. Orlando City fans probably feel he deserved more, but it’s good to see him get some recognition on a national level.

Malik Tillman Out of USMNT Friendlies

United States Men’s National Team fans were likely excited to see midfielder Malik Tillman in the upcoming friendlies against Germany and Ghana. However, the attacking midfielder suffered a minor injury while playing on loan for PSV Eindhoven against Sparta Rotterdam. As a result, Tillman has withdrawn from the USMNT roster. Alex Zendejas has been added to the roster to replace Tillman. The USMNT will take on Germany this Saturday in Connecticut.

Didier Deschamps Dislikes 2030 FIFA World Cup Plans

France Men’s National Team Head Coach Didier Deschamps has spoken out against FIFA’s plans for the 2030 World Cup to hold three opening games in South America before heading to Portugal, Spain, and Morocco for the remainder of the tournament. Deschamps was a member of France’s 1998 World Cup winning team and became the senior team’s head coach in 2012. He led Les Bleus to a 2018 FIFA World Cup triumph and the final of last year’s World Cup, where they lost to Argentina.

Former Brazil Boss Tite Hired by Flamengo

Tite, who coached Brazil at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, has been hired by Flamengo. His contract with the Rio de Janeiro club, one of the most popular in Brazil, runs through the end of 2024. The 62-year-old stepped down as head coach of his nation’s senior team following its quarterfinal exit at last year’s World Cup in Qatar.

Free Kicks

• AC Milan striker Olivier Giroud finished the team’s 1-0 win over Genoa in goal after Mike Maignan was sent off in stoppage time, and he was named to the Serie A Team of the Week as goalkeeper.
• In a heart-warming moment in England, West Ham United goalkeeper Alphonse Areola wore noise-canceling headphones when the players came out prior to the game in support of mascot Charlie, who has autism.

• Italian referee Juan Luca Sacchi has been suspended for a round of games for refusing to shake the hand of his female assistant Francesca Di Monti.
• In something that you’ve probably never seen on a soccer field, Brazilian side Fortaleza used dog mascots Sunday to promote adopting dogs.

That’s all I’ve got for today. Enjoy the rest of your Tuesday.