Lion Links
Lion Links: 12/4/24
USWNT defeats the Netherlands, U.S. player awards, Jill Ellis changes jobs, and more.
Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers! We have a U.S. Soccer-heavy news day for you, which is in no way a bad thing. I hope you’re staying warm as we get a bit of colder weather in the Sunshine State. I know I’m loving the bit of chill in the air. Let’s get to today’s links.
USWNT Defeats the Netherlands
The USWNT needed to come from behind to defeat the Netherlands 2-1 Tuesday in the Hague. Lynn Williams scored the match-winning goal in the 71st minute, but the U.S. needed some help from an own goal at the end of the first half to secure the victory. Veerle Buurman put the hosts up early, and the Netherlands dominated the first half. Perhaps if Emma Hayes had given Orlando Pride defender and NWSL Defender of the Year Emily Sams the start then that goal could have been prevented. Unfortunately, Sams did not see the pitch.
It was also Alyssa Naeher’s final international match as well as the final game of the year for the U.S. Prior to the match, Dutch captain Daniëlle van de Donk presented Naeher with a jersey and a bouquet. The long time USWNT keeper didn’t keep a clean sheet, but she did make several key saves to help her team to victory.
Award Season is Here
It’s that time of the year when awards and accolades are doled out, including U.S. Soccer End of the Year awards. The voting for the awards starts Dec. 4 and runs through Dec. 13. The usual suspects are in contention for the Male and Female Player of the Year awards. On the men’s side you have players like Christian Pulisic, Tim Ream, and Ricardo Pepi. On the women’s side you have players like Sophia Smith, Alyssa Naeher, and Naomi Girma.
Former USWNT midfielder Carli Lloyd was voted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame on her first year of eligibility. She will be inducted on May 3, 2025. Lloyd making the cut first time isn’t really a big surprise.
The Guardian has released its player rankings (100-71) for the best female footballers of 2024. Players 70-1 are still to come. Orlando Pride center back Rafaelle came in at No. 95. I’m certain we can expect plenty more appearances by Pride players as the rest of the names are revealed.
Pulisic: The Docuseries
Christian Pulisic is one of the most famous American footballers in the world. Now, he has his own docuseries coming out Dec. 9 on Paramount+. The series will provide behind-the-scenes access to Pulisic as he navigates his time with club and country while preparing for the 2026 World Cup. Former USMNT stiker Jozy Altidore might be watching it as he stated his admiration for Pulisic during a recent visit with the U.S. squad in St. Louis.
Jill Ellis’ New Gig
With the allegations of a toxic and hostile work environment at the San Diego Wave under Jill Ellis’ watch, the former USWNT boss left her position with the club to assume the position of Chief of Football at FIFA. There’s nothing quite like leaving a toxic and hostile work environment for an office with FIFA. Hopefully, Ellis will be able to tell the difference between the two. Ellis’ departure is part of a transition period for the Wave.
Free Kicks
- The MLS Best XI was announced, and you’ll be shocked to hear that no Orlando City players made the list. Just so shocking, I say.
- The NWSL now has Bobbie Baby Formula as the exclusive infant formula partner of the league. The company provided dedicated on-site feeding and lactation areas for mothers who attended the 2024 NWSL Championship.
- Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca stated that his team can dominate the English Premier League over the next five to 10 years, but the Blues are not quite ready yet. That’s oil money club talk if you ask me.
- There’s a bit of controversy surrounding the rainbow armbands in the English Premier League after Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy opted out of wearing one on religious grounds.
- Speaking of the FIFA Club World Cup, the procedures for the draw have been set. The draw takes place Dec. 5 in Miami.
That will do it for today. Make sure you check out our Season in Review articles for the Orlando Pride players, already underway, and the upcoming ones for Orlando City. Vamos Orlando!