Lion Links: 6/5/25

How’s it going, Mane Landers? I hope this week has been treating you well as we enjoy some international soccer and prepare for the return of NWSL action this weekend. Before we jump right into today’s links, let’s all wish a happy birthday to Orlando City B midfielder Dylan Judelson!

Pair of Lions Lead MLS All-Star Voting

Voting for this year’s MLS All-Star Game remains underway and an update was provided on which players are leading at each position. Orlando City defender Alex Freeman leads all right backs as he enjoys a breakout season. I was aware of the buzz he’s been getting this year, but it’s still surprising to see a Lion as an All-Star frontrunner. What’s even more surprising is that Pedro Gallese leads the voting for goalkeepers. The Peruvian made a rough gaffe last week, but has otherwise had a stellar season with Orlando that’s included seven clean sheets. Voting will close on June 11, so make sure to get those votes in before then.

Kerry Abello Impresses With USMNT

Orlando Pride defender Kerry Abello made her first appearance for the United States Women’s National Team Tuesday, playing every minute of the 4-0 win over Jamaica. The versatility she’s shown with the Pride translated well in Head Coach Emma Hayes’ system, as she was able to hold things down defensively and contribute to the attack as well. Abello could end up bringing solid depth to the USWNT as Hayes figures out the team’s future core of players. Enjoy this video from the USWNT that provides a look behind the scenes of Abello’s international debut.

Sergio Zapata Named Player of the Month

Sergio Zapata scored a whopping 11 goals for Orlando City’s U-19 team over the course of just four matches in May, winning the honor of MLS NEXT Player of the Month. He had three hat tricks last month, including one against Hoosier Premier at MLS NEXT Fest. Zapata committed to Cornell, so hopefully we’ll get to see him tear it up in the Ivy League over the next couple of years.

Zack Steffen Sustains Knee Injury

Goalkeeper Zack Steffen injured his knee at the United States Men’s National Team’s training camp and will reportedly miss this summer’s Concacaf Gold Cup. It’s rough news for the 30-year-old, as he was expected to compete with Matt Turner for the starting job with the USMNT. He’s been having a great season with the Colorado Rapids and returned to the club for further evaluation on the injury.

Free Kicks

• Orlando City and Orlando Health celebrated 29 elementary school students by giving them jerseys for their academic achievements.
• Sporting Kansas City forward Dejan Joveljic won MLS Goal of the Matchday for his acrobatic strike against the Houston Dynamo.
• Former Pride forward Messiah Bright signed a contract extension with the Houston Dash through the 2026 season with an option for 2027. The Pride traded Bright to Angel City FC in 2024 and she was traded to the Dash in January of this year.
• Mexico will be without San Diego FC forward Chucky Lozano for the Gold Cup due to a hamstring injury.
• Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winner for Portugal to beat Germany 2-1 to reach the UEFA Nations League final. It was Portugal’s first win over Germany in 25 years, and it will face either France or Spain in the final on Sunday.
• Simone Inzaghi left Inter Milan and is now the manager of Al-Hilal ahead of the Saudi Arabian club’s Club World Cup campaign.

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