Lion Links: 10/21/23

Who is ready for some Orlando soccer action, Mane Landers? While the Lions are on the road in a pretty pointless Decision Day match for them, there are storylines surrounding the match and Toronto’s captain Michael Bradley retiring. I would be glad to just see our players leave the field healthy regardless of any result. Sure, I’d love a win. But I’d donate a loss if it means I can guarantee a full healthy squad in the club’s first playoff game. Let’s get to more on MLS Decision Day and and all the latest news in today’s links!

Orlando City Heads North to Toronto

Orlando City aims to keep the momentum going into the playoffs with a trip to Toronto FC on MLS Decision Day. Orlando City Head Coach Oscar Pareja could possibly rest some starters today to keep everyone fresh for the MLS Cup playoffs, but doing so could cost the team momentum due to morale if a result is dropped against a Toronto side sure to step up for its captain in his final match. Not only does the match mark the end of Michael Bradley’s playing career after 19 professional seasons, but John Herdman will also be making his debut coaching the team.

“For the last 10 years I have spilled my blood, sweat and tears trying to help this club be the best it could be,” Bradley said. “There were some incredible days — moments that will stay with me for the rest of my life — and some bad ones, too. But I never stopped giving everything I had. … This city and this club will always be home.”

Lions Await Playoff Opponent

Orlando City has already secured home field advantage and the second seed in the Eastern Conference. While we still do not know the Lions’ first playoff opponent, we will after the matches that will take place today. The Lions will face the seventh-place team in a best-of-three series. Nashville SC currently holds the position, but only three points separate fifth from seventh. Atlanta United and the New England Revolution remain within striking distance and are potential opponents for Orlando.

Jack Lynn Claims MLS NEXT Pro MVP

Congratulations are in order for Orlando City B forward Jack Lynn, who has been named the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Most Valuable Player. After tallying 19 goals during the regular season, Lynn shared the spoils of the 2023 Golden Boot race title, alongside Rémi Cabral of Colorado Rapids 2 and MD Myers of NYCFC II. On top of that, Lynn was named to the League’s Best XI list for the second year in a row.

Marta’s Custom 100-Cap Jersey

The Orlando Pride honored their first player to reach 100 appearances with a special jersey. The club presented Marta with a one-of-a-kind jersey that combines all seven tops that the Brazilian legend has worn on the field over her NWSL career. The hand-stitched piece features: the 2017 home, 2018-2019 away, 2019-2020 Reflection, 2020-2021 White Plume, 2021-2022 Ad Astra, 2022-2023 Luna, and this year’s Highway Woman kits.

Free Kicks

• It appears that Ricardo Moreira is now a finalist for D.C. United’s GM position following new club approval to speak with him.

• In case you missed it, the Orlando Pride shined a spotlight on their players and their tattoos, telling their unique stories and origins.
• Former USWNT head coach Vlatko Andonovski is reportedly set to join the Kansas City Current.

• Canadian women’s soccer legend Christine Sinclair announced her retirement from international duty.
• Michael Bradley is considering his coaching options following his playing career.
• Argentine World Cup winner Alejandro “Papu” Gómez has been given a two-year ban for failing an anti-doping test.

That’s all I have for you folks. I hope you enjoy the match however you best see fit. For myself, it will be on the couch in the man cave with a bowl of buffalo chicken penne pasta and purple mood lighting. Let me know in the comments below how you spend your away games. Vamos Orlando!