Lion Links: 9/11/25

How’s it going, Mane Landers? The international break is over and our attention fully returns to Orlando’s soccer teams as they make playoff pushes. It feels like forever since we’ve had something to really celebrate as Orlando fans, so hopefully the teams come up with big wins this weekend. But for now, let’s dive into today’s links!

Orlando City Prepares for D.C. United

After some needed time off for the international break, Orlando City returns to action on Saturday with a road match against D.C. United. The Lions fell 5-1 to Nashville SC in their last MLS game, which snapped a four-game winning streak in league play. With forward Ramiro Enrique no longer with the team, there will be more focus on Duncan McGuire as he works his way back from injury. McGuire has a solid track record at Audi Field, scoring in his professional debut there in 2023, and he spoke on how he’s feeling heading into this match.

Orlando Pride Unveil Championship Rings

The rings celebrating the Orlando Pride’s 2024 NWSL Championship victory have been revealed and they look pretty great in my opinion. The NWSL Championship trophy is on the right shoulder of the ring and surrounded by 24 symbols to commemorate the team’s historic unbeaten streak last year. The ring’s sides also include eight purple stars in honor of Luana’s impact on last season and the club’s eight-game win streak. Part of the ring’s design also includes an inner ring that features each player’s name and the team’s rallying cry of “Whatever It Takes.”

USMNT Player Ratings Following Win

A rollercoaster of an international window for the United States Men’s National Team came to a close with a 2-0 win over Japan, with many players receiving praise for the performance. Christian Pulisic and Alex Zendejas were given ratings of 9 by ESPN for their efforts offensively, while goalkeeper Matt Freese also got a 9 for coming up with six saves to secure a clean sheet. Orlando City right back Alex Freeman received a 7 for his role in the shutout victory, as he and Max Arfsten performed well running up and down the wings. The 21-year-old may benefit greatly from the change in formation moving forward and it will be interesting to see if Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino sticks with it in next month’s friendlies against Ecuador and Australia.

Miles Robinson Signs Contract Extension

FC Cincinnati center back Miles Robinson signed a contract extension that will keep him at the MLS club through 2027 with an option for 2028. According to Give Me Sport, the deal would make Robinson a Designated Player next year and the highest-paid center back in the league. The American joined Cincinnati as a free agent before the 2024 season and has made 60 appearances for the club, starting in all but one of those games.

Free Kicks

• Congrats to Bay FC defender Abby Dahlkemper and former MLS player Aaron Schoenfeld, as the couple announced that they are expecting their first child. Dahlkemper has not played for Bay FC since June and the club is set to take on the Pride on Saturday.
• Houston Dynamo defender Pablo Ortiz was fined for violating the league’s simulation and embellishment policy. FC Dallas goalkeeper Michael Collodi was also fined for not leaving the field in a timely manner after his early red card against St. Louis City.
• Christian Eriksen has joined Wolfsburg on a free transfer, signing a two-year contract.
• Here’s a nice breakdown of the UEFA Women’s Champions League’s new format, with the third round of qualifying kicking off today.
• Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush will miss this weekend’s rivalry match with Manchester United due to an injury sustained while on international duty with Egypt.

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