Lion Links: 5/30/24

For those of you who watched Orlando City’s game Wednesday night, I hope the universe repays you with good fortune in some way today. The week rolls on though, as we get ready for more Orlando soccer this weekend, along with international friendlies around the world to enjoy. For now though, let’s get to the links!

Orlando City Draws Against the Chicago Fire

The Lions went on the road and had to settle for a 1-1 draw against the Chicago Fire. Neither goal was anything to write home about in a match that was highlighted by sloppy play and yet another controversial refereeing decision the Lions had to deal with. A draw on the road while on short rest generally isn’t the worst result in the world, but it was a poor performance from the Lions. They’ll aim to get back in the winning column this Saturday when they travel to play the New York Red Bulls.

Duncan McGuire Called Up For Training Camp

Orlando City forward Duncan McGuire was one of 25 players called up for the United States Men’s Olympic Soccer Team’s training camp ahead of a friendly with Japan on June 11. McGuire has earned his spot on the team during a solid second season with the Lions that has included five goals. Columbus Crew goalkeeper Patrick Schulte, Koln forward Damion Downs, and LA Galaxy defender Jalen Neal are a few of the other notable players called up. Nashville SC center back Walker Zimmerman is the only player over 23 that was called up for this camp.

Grace Chanda Will Reportedly Join the Pride

An agreement was reportedly reached between the Orlando Pride and Zambian attacker Grace Chanda for her to join the club on a deal through 2025, with an option for 2026 as well. It would be a free transfer, but she would not join the Pride until after the Olympics. Chanda was named to the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Best XI and was also on the shortlist for the 2022 Best CAF Women’s Player of the Year Award. The 26-year-old did not play in last year’s World Cup due to an illness, but has come off the bench in Madrid CFF’s past two games. The Pride are having a historic year and Chanda should help them push for a title if she does end up joining her international teammate, Barbra Banda.

Getting to Know Emily Sams

Pride defender Emily Sams is the latest player to field questions as part of the club’s video series for fans to learn more about the players. Sams spoke about the disappointment in how the team’s season ended last year after missing out on the playoffs on a goal differential tiebreaker. She also talked about the team’s aspiration to not only make the playoffs but contend for a title this year. It’s her second season with the Pride and she’s been a key reason why Orlando has done so well so far. Sams discussed what the team’s atmosphere is like, as well as how she likes to spend time outdoors exploring Orlando’s many lakes when not on the field.

Free Kicks

• In a battle of free kicks, Orlando City B’s Yutaro Tsukada missed out on MLS NEXT Pro Goal of Matchweek by only a few votes, with Philadelphia Union II midfielder David Vazquez receiving the honor.
• Goalkeeper Brandon Austin, who made five starts while on loan with Orlando City back in 2021, has signed a new contract with Tottenham Hotspur through 2029.
• Former Orlando Pride goalkeeper Carly Nelson is taking a mental health break from the Utah Royals.

• Real Salt Lake forward Anderson Julio won MLS Goal of the Matchday for his strike from a difficult angle outside the box in the team’s 3-3 draw with FC Dallas.
• The Crew will have forward Cucho Hernandez available for the Concacaf Champions Cup final on Saturday.
• Philadelphia Union goalkeeper Andre Blake is out for four to six weeks after undergoing surgery, meaning Jamaica may be without him for the upcoming Copa America tournament.
• American attacker Ashley Sanchez spoke on how difficult her experience at last year’s World Cup was, particularly because the coaching staff told her she wouldn’t be playing at all in the tournament.
• Olympiakos gave Greece its first European club trophy after beating Fiorentina 1-0 in extra time to win the Europa Conference League.
• Bayern Munich announced Vincent Kompany as the team’s next manager. Kompany now joins one of the biggest clubs in Europe after leading Burnley to the relegation zone this season.
• In other coaching news, Barcelona named Hansi Flick as the manager, replacing Xavi Hernandez. Flick has not coached since being sacked as Germany’s manager last year.
• Greenland applied to become the 42nd member of Concacaf. Sure, the USMNT is routinely beating Mexico these days, but can the Yanks win on a cold, rainy night in Nuuk?

That’s all I have for you today. I hope you all have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week.