Lion Links: 3/18/26

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. I hope you had a good St. Patrick’s Day. As I’m a non-alcoholic (NA) beer guy now, I am deeply appreciative that Guinness has an NA version that is very close to the original. I was even able to make an NA Black and Tan. What a time to be alive. Before we get started today, please join us in wishing Orlando Pride defender Kylie Nadaner a happy birthday. Now, let’s get to the links.

Perelman’s Preparation

The match against Nashville SC will be interim head coach Martin Perelman’s first match with a full week of training while in charge. The challenges will be different, as Orlando City will be on the road and the competition is higher up the standings. That won’t change how he prepares the team. One interesting thing about his preparation is how he likes to see training from a tower, allowing him a better view of what is happening. He had to overcome a slight fear of heights years ago to do so, but he said he likes the benefits of the elevated view.

Banda is Back

Yes, we’ve known for a while now that Barbra Banda is back, but now she’s back with a goal to start the season. Her season-ending injury was a blow to the Orlando Pride in 2025, but she looked as dominating as ever in the opening match against the Seattle Reign. I think that despite Jacquie Ovalle not being so sharp, her presence drew defenders and allowed Banda more space with which to work. That dynamic should only improve as Ovalle gets more comfortable.

USMNT Roster Set for March Friendlies

Mauricio Pochettino has named the 27-player roster for the March training camp and the matches against Belgium and Portugal. This is the final camp prior to the World Cup and most of the big names are returning, though there are absences due to injuries. The big surprise for some was the inclusion of Gio Reyna, who has played sparingly for Borussia Mönchengladbach so far this year but has played well for the U.S. when called up. Former Lion Alex Freeman hasn’t played much for Villarreal since leaving Orlando City, but he made the squad.

World Cup News

As the World Cup approaches, YouTube made a deal with FIFA that allows rights-holding broadcasters to stream game action live. The broadcasters can stream the first 10 minutes of matches with a limited number of full matches. FIFA has also appeared to rule out moving any of Iran’s potential matches to Mexico from the United States despite current world events. On a lighter note, Will Ferrell will be the community ambassador for the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee.

Free Kicks

• Orlando City and the Orlando Pride now have a new partnership as Avianca becomes the club’s official international airline partner.
• Angel City FC midfielder Hina Sugita suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury and will be placed on the season-ending injury list.
• USMNT forward Ricardo Pepi is reportedly close to a summer move from PSV to Fulham. The move is pending a medical.
• In what can only be described as an incomprehensible decision, Morocco was awarded the Africa Cup of Nations title by appeals judges, who overturned Senegal’s victory.

That will do it for today. Check back for our coverage of the Orlando City and Orlando Pride matches this weekend. Vamos Orlando!