Connect with us

Lion Links

Lion Links: 2/14/25

Nico Lodeiro linked with Club Libertad, Emily Sams signs contract extension, Orlando City B signs Bernardo Rhein and Justin Ellis, and more.

Published

on

Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Happy Valentine’s Day! I hope your day is spent with plenty of chocolate and time with loved ones as we get ready for the final weekend before Orlando City’s season kicks off on Feb. 22. The Lions are taking on Inter Miami today at 7:30 p.m. in Tampa in a friendly that will be streamed on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. Hopefully the Lions can close out their preseason schedule with a win. Let’s jump into today’s links!

Nico Lodeiro Linked With Paraguayan Club

Rumors were swirling Thursday morning that Orlando City midfielder Nico Lodeiro would join Paraguay’s Club Libertad, but the club’s president, Ruben Di Tore, provided some clarification on the radio. He confirmed the club’s interest in Lodeiro, but that the move would not be taking place this window and may happen in the summer.

In his first season in Orlando last year, Lodeiro played in every game and posted 11 assists and a goal. His performance triggered the 2025 option on his contract, which would conclude after this upcoming season. It would make sense for the club to transfer the 35-year-old before then, but it looks like we won’t see if that move comes to pass until the summer.

Emily Sams Signs Contract Extension

The Orlando Pride and defender Emily Sams have agreed to a contract extension that will last through the 2027 NWSL season. Sams was one of the best players in the league last year, earning the title of NWSL Defender of the Year and helping the Pride win both the NWSL Shield and NWSL Championship. The 25-year-old was also recently called up by the United States Women’s National Team for the SheBelieves Cup later this month. NWSL stars leaving the league has been a major talking point this off-season, so it’s nice to see Sams extend her contract with Orlando by another year.

OCB Signs Bernardo Rhein and Justin Ellis

Orlando City B signed a pair of academy players, with midfielder Bernardo Rhein and forward Justin Ellis both joining on MLS NEXT Pro contracts. Both players are 17 years old and featured in Orlando’s friendly against CF Montreal on Feb. 8. Ellis appeared in 18 matches and scored two goals for OCB last season, while Rhein (who you may remember as Bernardo Goncalves) came off the bench six times for some valuable minutes. With Jack Lynn retired and Shak Mohammed possibly giving the first team some depth due to Duncan McGuire’s injury, Ellis should be an interesting player to keep an eye on this season. It’s great to see young players take the next step from the academy, and hopefully they can make the most of their playing time in 2025.

OCSC Showcasing Its Youth This Preseason

Ellis and Rhein aren’t the only academy players who have been taking the field for the Lions this preseason, as the club has used these matches to give opportunities to the club’s youth. Winger Gustavo Caraballo, who is just 16 years old, started in the club’s friendly against Atletico Mineiro last month in a special moment for both him and his family. The academy has grown in recent years and other players like Colin Guske and Alex Freeman could contribute to the first team this year. Orlando City Academy Director Javier Carillo spoke on the impact of the club’s pathway for young players to develop.

“We’re exposing players to individual fundamental skills to help them to compete and then to learn how to win games, and I think the fact that we have this clear pathway between first team, second team and Academy is allowing us to promote players and expose players at an early age to new challenges, where the players continue to reach new heights. And I think that’s what’s really making the big difference for us.”

USL Plans First Division League in 2027

The United Soccer League announced that it will launch a first division league in the U.S. that would operate separately from MLS. It plans to make the most of the sport’s growth in the U.S. due to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with this new league of 12 or 14 teams intended to start in 2027. If this ends up happening and the league gets division one sanctioning from U.S. Soccer, it would give the USL a three-tier pyramid of soccer. USL President Paul McDonough, who was Orlando City’s general manager during the club’s transition from the USL to MLS, talked about this next step for the league.

“It’s a key moment for soccer in this country, and as we see where this game is going, we want to be a part of it,” McDonough said in an exclusive interview with The Athletic. “Taking this big initiative allows for the growth of the game throughout the country.”

I think it will be most interesting to see which existing USL teams would initially join this new league, and if promotion and relegation will actually happen. All of this coming on the heels of the antitrust lawsuit filed by the North American Soccer League is also intriguing. We’ll see how the USL’s quest for sanctioning goes.

Free Kicks

  • Marta made it clear that she’s staying well hydrated. I’m now wanting a version of Space Jam but with Marta and her bottle of secret stuff.

That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a lovely Valentine’s Day and rest of your weekend!

Lion Links

Lion Links: 3/17/25

Lions draw on the road, Pride win NWSL season opener, OCB claims two points against Atlanta, and more.

Published

on

Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Hello, Mane Landers, and happy St. Patrick’s Day! I hope all is well with you down in Florida. I’ve been catching up with friends over the weekend in Chicago. Our Lions and OCB picked up draws, but the Young Lions claimed an extra point in penalties, while the Pride dominated the Stars to start their 2025 NWSL season with a win. We’ve got plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links. 

Lions Draw New York Red Bulls on the Road

Orlando City and the New York Red Bulls split the points in a 2-2 draw at Sports Illustrated Stadium Saturday. The Lions struck first with a goal from Martin Ojeda to take the lead. However, a controversial penalty kick was awarded to the Red Bulls, and Eric Choupo-Boting buried the equalizer to tie the match at one. Marco Pasalic’s goal put Orlando back in front just before halftime. However, just minutes into the second half, the Red Bulls tied the match at 2-2. The Lions had chances to score late in the match, but Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel stopped everything in his path to preserve a point. Orlando City returns home to Inter&Co Stadium on Saturday to take on D.C. United.

Orlando City Signs Gustavo Caraballo as Homegrown Player

After being signed to short-term contracts in previous weeks, Orlando City announced Friday that the club signed midfielder Gustavo Caraballo to a Homegrown Player contract. Caraballo is signed through the 2027 season with a club option for 2028. The 16-year-old midfielder has made two appearances for Orlando this season. Caraballo went through the academy, playing at OCB, and now becomes the youngest player to sign a first-team pro contract. He made his MLS debut earlier this month in the Lions’ 4-2 win over Toronto FC, becoming the youngest player ever to get MLS minutes with Orlando.

Orlando Pride Defeat Chicago Stars in Season Opener

The Orlando Pride began their 2025 NWSL season Friday, beating the Chicago Stars 6-0 at Inter&Co Stadium. Haley McCutcheon, Ally Watt, and Julie Doyle added their names to the scoresheet, while Barbra Banda scored twice. The Pride also got an own goal from Stars defender Hannah Anderson just after halftime. Orlando is unbeaten in its last four matches against Chicago. With six goals, Orlando tied the club record for the most goals scored in a match. It was also the Pride’s first-ever season-opening win. The Pride will be on the road this weekend to face NJ/NY Gotham FC at Sports Illustrated Stadium on Sunday.

OCB Wins Penalty Shootout vs. Atlanta United 2 after 2-2 Draw

Orlando City B drew 2-2 against Atlanta United 2 Sunday at Osceola County Stadium. The Young Lions trailed 1-0 in the first half, but Justin Ellis tied the match just before halftime. Shak Mohammed gave OCB a 2-1 lead in the second half, but Atlanta scored a late equalizer. After 90 minutes, MLS NEXT Pro draws go to penalties, and OCB won the extra point with a 4-1 shootout win. OCB will be back in action on Wednesday, March 26 on the road against Crown Legacy FC.

NWSL Opening Weekend Recap

The National Women’s Soccer League’s opening weekend matches are in the books. The Washington Spirit edged the Houston Dash 2-1 Friday night. On Saturday, the Kansas City Current defeated the Portland Thorns 3-1 as Temwa Chawinga and Debinha scored. The Utah Royals and Bay FC, Racing Louisville and the North Carolina Courage, and the Seattle Reign vs. NJ/NY Gotham FC matches all ended in 1-1 draws. On Sunday, Angel City FC and the San Diego Wave match also ended in a 1-1 draw.

Americans Abroad

We had another busy weekend featuring several Americans in action in Europe just ahead of the international break. Christian Pulisic scored for AC Milan in its Serie A clash against Como. AC Milan held on to win 2-1. Weston Mckennie’s Juventus side fell 3-0 to Fiorentina on the road, suffering a second straight heavy defeat in league play. Tyler Adams played 79 minutes for AFC Bournemouth, but his side lost 2-1 at home to Brentford, while Antonee Robinson played 90 minutes for Fulham, helping his team defeat Tottenham Hotspur 2-0. Tanner Tessmann came off the bench for Lyon in the second half as his side defeated Le Havre 4-2 in Ligue 1. Haji Wright scored a hat trick over the weekend for EFL Championship side Coventry City in a 3-0 victory over Sunderland. Catarina Macario and Chelsea defeated Manchester City 2-1 to win the Women’s League Cup.

Free Kicks

  • Angel City FC and Former Orlando Pride forward Sydney Leroux announced on her Instagram page that she will take a break from professional soccer to focus on her mental health.
  • Boston’s NWSL expansion team will not play under its current name, BOS Nation FC. The club announced over the weekend that it will rebrand and expects to unveil its new name in the next few weeks.
  • Newcastle United defeated Liverpool 2-1 Sunday to win the Carabao Cup, snapping a 70-year domestic trophy drought.
  • In case you missed it, you have to see this late second-half equalizer by Mohamed Traore of Phoenix Rising in a USL Championship match over the weekend against El Paso Locomotive.

That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday, and I’ll see you next time.

Continue Reading

Lion Links

Lion Links: 3/14/25

Orlando Pride face the Chicago Stars tonight, 2025 NWSL season set to kick off, San Diego FC’s plan to stop discriminatory chant, and more.

Published

on

Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Mark Thor

Happy Friday! The Orlando Pride’s season starts today to kick off another three straight days of Orlando soccer. Orlando City is in action on Saturday, and then we have Orlando City B to enjoy on Sunday. Before we jump into today’s links, let’s all wish a happy birthday to Executive OCSC Vice President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Luiz Muzzi!

Orlando Pride Take On Chicago Stars FC Tonight

The Orlando Pride’s first game of the 2025 NWSL season is finally here, with the team set to begin its title defense at home tonight at 8 p.m. against the Chicago Stars. Before the match, the club will raise banners to celebrate a historic season last year that included winning the NWSL Shield and NWSL Championship. It’s an unfamiliar position for the Pride to start a season from, as the club has undergone quite the transformation in both culture and expectations in recent years.

“It’s going to be such a special moment,” defender and vice-captain Kylie Nadaner said. “I got here when things weren’t great in this club, and there were times where I don’t think that I would ever have predicted that this would be possible. So when that banner is raised, it’s going to be such a special moment, and to see this star on our chest—every time I see it, I’m just so proud and honored to be a part of it.”

The Pride’s season will start with a matchup against a Chicago team they eliminated in the first round of last year’s playoffs. The Stars won’t be the only team with revenge on their mind when facing the Pride, and Orlando will have to navigate the season with a large target on its back. It’s still a bit surreal to acknowledge that considering where this club was only a few years ago.

2025 NWSL Season Kicks Off Tonight

Tonight’s matches are just the first in what should be an exciting start to the NWSL season across the country. While most of us will likely be watching the Pride, the Washington Spirit are also in action at 8 p.m. tonight when they face the Houston Dash. Saturday’s slate features four games with staggered start times for a nice day of soccer, including an intriguing late match pitting NJ/NY Gotham FC against the Seattle Reign. The weekend wraps up on Sunday night with a Cali clash between Angel City FC and the San Diego Wave. If in need of a refresher on each team after a busy off-season, ESPN provided a nice guide heading into this season.

San Diego FC Launches Plan to Stop Anti-Gay Chant

After the use of a homophobic chant in its inaugural home game earlier this month, San Diego FC has announced a plan for addressing it. Starting as soon as Saturday’s home game against the Columbus Crew, there will be increased communication to fans reinforcing that the chant has no place at the stadium. There will be increased security measures as well, with the plan noting that offenders will be identified and ejected. FIFA’s protocol to abandon the match if the behavior persists is also part of the club’s announced plan. Hopefully this all will help nip the problem in the bud.

Europa League Quarterfinals Are Set

Only eight teams remain in this year’s Europa League after some exciting round of 16 matchups. A hat trick by Bruno Fernandes lifted Manchester United to a 4-1 win over Real Sociedad at Old Trafford, while fellow English club Tottenham also advanced after a 3-1 home victory against AZ Alkmaar. As for the Italian clubs, an early red card to Mats Hummels doomed AS Roma in its 3-1 loss to Athletic Club and Lazio’s 1-1 draw with Viktoria Plzen was enough to advance. Fenerbahce beat Rangers 2-0, but Rangers ultimately came out on top in the penalty shootout.

In the quarterfinals, Manchester United faces a Lyon side that breezed through the round of 16, and Rangers will battle Athletic Club. On the other side of the bracket, Tottenham plays Eintracht Frankfurt and Lazio is matched up against Bodo/Glimt.

Free Kicks

  • Enjoy this look into the Pride’s history of home openers over the past nine years in the NWSL.
  • NWSL players will be able to decrease their yellow card accumulation through good behavior this season.

NEW 2025 NWSL FEATURE: Yellow card accumulation total can be decreased through “Good Behavior Incentives”

Taylor Vincent (@tayvincent6.bsky.social) 2025-03-13T14:41:34.708Z

That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend. Go Orlando!

Continue Reading

Lion Links

Lion Links: 3/13/25

Getting to know Robin Jansson, Orlando Pride announce 2025 season roster, Orlando City’s watch party schedule, and more.

Published

on

Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

How’s it going, Mane Landers? Soccer in the City Beautiful is back and in full swing, with another stacked weekend ahead of us. I’ve been spending most of the week working and getting some reading done before the rest of the month really gets busier for me. For those who like contemporary romance and are looking for a recommendation, First-Time Caller has been a fantastic read so far. But enough about what you should be reading, let’s get to the links!

Getting to Know Robin Jansson

Enjoy taking a stroll with Orlando City center back Robin Jansson, who detailed his role on the team and experience in Orlando. The 33-year-old has become an MLS veteran over the years and talked about how his game has developed since moving from Sweden to the U.S., notably how he’s able to play with the ball at his feet a bit more. As the team’s captain, Jansson provides leadership both on and off the pitch and discussed how he’s fit into the verbal and intense South American culture within the club. He also spoke on how he gives back to the community by visiting kids in the hospital to help them on their journeys.

Orlando Pride Announce Roster for 2025 Season

With the NWSL season only a few days away, the Orlando Pride announced their start-of-season roster. There aren’t too many changes from the team that won both the NWSL Shield and NWSL Championship last year, although Adriana’s transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al Qadsiah FC is notable. New additions acquired this off-season include Zambian forward Prisca Chilufya, World Cup winner Oihane Hernández, and rookie defender Zara Chavoshi. Luana, Simone Charley, and Amanda Allen are the players on the season-ending injury list heading into the 2025 season as well.

Orlando City Reveals 2025 Watch Party Schedule

The schedule for this year’s Orlando City watch parties was announced and fans will be able to watch seven away games at different local pubs. The first will be Saturday at Burton’s Thornton Park for Orlando’s road game against the New York Red Bulls. This should create a nice atmosphere for Orlando’s road rivalry games in May too, as the game against Inter Miami on May 18 will fittingly be watched at Rivals, while the watch party for the game against Atlanta United on May 28 will be at The Hideaway. Orlando’s Decision Day match with Toronto FC will be hosted at Kiwi’s Pub & Grill to close out the regular season. As part of the club’s partnership with the pubs, each one will have access to MLS Season Pass for all of the Lions’ games this year as well.

New NWSL Players to Watch in 2025

Pride fans are well aware that NWSL newcomers played a major role in the league last season, as Barbra Banda was a major reason behind the club’s historic year. This year’s new faces include many players who could impress in their first year in the NWSL, like aforementioned Pride defender Oihane Hernandez. The right back helped Spain win the 2023 Women’s World Cup and bronze at the 2024 Olympics and joined the Pride after two seasons with Real Madrid. She’s skilled on both sides of the ball and gives opponents another obstacle to overcome this season.

OCB Lands in MLS NEXT Pro’s Top 10

The first power rankings of the MLS NEXT Pro season are out and Orlando City B placed sixth. The Young Lions kicked off their season at home on Sunday with a 2-1 win over Columbus Crew 2. A late rally by Columbus nearly spoiled things, but OCB did well to hold onto its lead and secure all three points. Orlando’s next match will be Sunday at Osceola Heritage Park against Atlanta United 2, which lost 1-0 to New York Red Bulls II during the opening weekend.

Free Kicks

  • Chicago Stars forward Mallory Swanson won’t be with the team when it takes on the Pride this Friday due to personal reasons.
  • Although she’s focused on this NWSL season, Washington Spirit forward Trinity Rodman stated that it’s just a matter of when in regards to her making the move to Europe.
  • Seattle Sounders midfielder Paul Arriola was carted off due to a left knee injury during his team’s 4-1 loss to Cruz Azul. It’s tough news for Arriola, who tore his right ACL in 2020.
  • Charlotte FC bolstered its defense by adding left back Souleyman Doumbia on loan from Standard Liège for the 2025 season.
  • The Kansas City Current signed forward Flora Marta Lacho to a two-year contract, making her the first Angolan player in league history. She heads to the U.S. after helping TP Mazembe win the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League last year.
  • The UEFA Champions League quarterfinals are set and each matchup looks to be a good one. Arsenal will take on Real Madrid, Bayern Munich will face Inter Milan, Borussia Dortmund will play Barcelona, and Aston Villa will square off against Paris Saint-Germain.
  • Bos Nation FC hired Amina Bulman as its chief revenue officer. Bulman led the Washington Commanders’ revamp as the NFL team’s chief brand and strategy officer, so a similar brand reset is hopefully on the horizon for the NWSL club.

That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a wonderful Thursday and rest of your week!

Continue Reading

Trending