Lion Links
Lion Links: 10/15/21
How’s it going, Mane Landers? I hope you’ve enjoyed all of the international soccer this past week as players now head back to their clubs for this weekend’s action. It’s a weekend filled with milestones for Orlando City supporters as today marks four years since Kaká last played for the Lions and tomorrow will be seven years since the groundbreaking at what is now known as Exploria Stadium. But before you walk too far down memory lane, enjoy these links from around the soccer world.
Orlando City Takes On FC Cincinnati Tomorrow
The Lions are well rested as they travel to take on FC Cincinnati tomorrow night at 7:30 p.m. Orlando is coming off of a dramatic 2-1 win over D.C. United on Oct. 2 and will aim to keep that momentum going against one of the weakest teams in the league. Cincinnati is on a six-game losing streak and on pace to finish last in MLS for the third consecutive year. The Lions have yet to lose to Cincy, but their last trip to TQL Stadium resulted in a 1-1 draw on Aug. 7. Miguel Gallardo and Evan Weston gave a breakdown of what to watch for in this match-up as Orlando enters the final stretch of the regular season.
Talkin' #InTheHunt in today's Orlando City Roundtable presented by @Ford 🎥 #VamosOrlando pic.twitter.com/uTTYQt42oK
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) October 14, 2021
Orlando Pride Must Rebound Following Loss
There’s not much turnaround for the Pride after a 1-0 loss to the Chicago Red Stars as they must now shift gears to focus on tomorrow’s road game against Racing Louisville FC at 7:30 p.m. The loss highlighted issues that have frustrated the Pride during this three-game skid as they conceded early and weren’t able to create consistent chances on offense. That may change this weekend though as Emily van Egmond will be available for the Pride after meeting the team in Louisville ahead of the match.
Confirmed with the club. Emily van Egmond met the team in Louisville and is available for Saturday’s game. https://t.co/VeLTdB2XMF
— Julia Poe 🎃👻 (@byjuliapoe) October 14, 2021
Ashlyn Harris’ heroics in goal should keep the Pride within striking distance during their final two games of the regular season, but the Pride’s playoff hopes are out of their hands. Even if they win out, the Pride will need multiple teams to lose in order to make the postseason.
USMNT Adapting to Concacaf Qualifying
With six Concacaf World Cup qualifiers under its belt, the USMNT sits near the top of the table with 11 points. It’s been far from smooth sailing for the USMNT, but players are becoming accustomed to the physically demanding nature of Concacaf qualifying. This is right back Sergino Dest’s first taste of World Cup qualifying after growing up in Holland and he spoke about how the team is improving.
“It was an eye-opener for us,” said Dest when asked about the lessons of the September window after Wednesday’s victory. “Because for me it was the first time, for some of the guys it was the first time. It was an eye-opener and yeah, I think this window we got one more point, so we’re making improvements, but we still have a long way to go.”
The USMNT has played every team so far except for first-place Mexico, which it will face on Nov. 12. Until then, players will continue to improve at the club level in an effort to earn selection next month. Orlando’s Daryl Dike, who has scored in the Lions’ past three games, could rejoin the conversation for a call-up if he keeps up his run of form. Ricardo Pepi, Gyasi Zardes, Josh Sargent, Jordan Pefok, Matthew Hoppe, and Nicholas Gioacchini are the other American forwards to keep an eye on between now and then.
Steve Baldwin Will Sell the Washington Spirit
Washington Spirit majority owner Steve Baldwin told investors that he will begin the process of selling the club according to an email obtained by The Washington Post. The decision comes after Spirit’s players demanded he sell to co-owner Michele Kang following the firing of head coach Richie Burke and an investigation into the club’s workplace. Baldwin did not name a specific buyer, but expects the selling process to be finished by the end of the year.
Free Kicks
- Harris won NWSL Save of the Week for her diving stop in stoppage time against NJ/NY Gotham FC to deny Brianna Pinto and keep the Pride alive in the match.
She's done it again 💥@Ashlyn_Harris takes home @Verizon Save of the Week honors for this stop 🛑 pic.twitter.com/0uU6BZTrR1
— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) October 14, 2021
- Orlando goalkeeper Pedro Gallese and Peru fell 1-0 to Argentina while Sebas Mendez did not play in Ecuador’s scoreless draw with Colombia.
- Kyle Smith detailed how he, Rio-Hope Gund, Wilfredo Rivera, and Alexandre Pato used some mental warfare to win at footvolley in training.
The mental game is very important, in every game. 🧠 @RealKyleSmith24 | #VamosOrlando pic.twitter.com/efLPXQT5F9
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) October 14, 2021
- Orlando City right back Michael Halliday was named as an honorable mention on this list of young MLS players who could make a splash next season.
- Jordan Morris could play this weekend for the Seattle Sounders as he nears his return after tearing his ACL this February. Carlos Vela is also nearing a return from injury and would certainly boost LAFC’s playoff hopes.
- United States Women’s National Team forward Tobin Heath scored her first goal with Arsenal in a 4-0 win over Hoffenheim in the Women’s Champions League. The USWNT’s Catarina Macario also scored in the Champions League, converting a penalty for Lyon in a 5-0 victory against Benfica.
- With the international window over, Americans are back in action with their clubs this weekend and here’s a guide to who is playing and when.
- 18-year-old midfielder Pedri signed a new contract with FC Barcelona that lasts through 2026 and includes a record $1.16 billion release clause.
That’s all I have for you today. Have a wonderful Friday and rest of your weekend. Go Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 5/1/24
Mason Stajduhar was arrested, Orlando Pride play at home tonight, Colin Guske discusses his signing, and more.
Welcome to Wednesday and welcome to May, Mane Landers. Don’t forget that the undefeated Orlando Pride are in action tonight, so check back for our match preview and the latest episode of SkoPurp Soccer: An Orlando Pride PawedCast for additional pre-match coverage. In the meantime, let’s get to the links.
Mason Stajduhar Arrested Early Sunday
Orlando City goalkeeper Mason Stajduhar and his wife Tatiana Stajduhar were both arrested on disorderly conduct charges following an incident at a nightclub overnight Saturday in the early hours of Sunday morning. The couple were reportedly disrespectful to the club’s staff and got into an altercation with the security guards. Mason stated he was only resisting the security guards to re-enter the club because the bouncers allegedly hit his wife. Tatiana allegedly pushed the police officers after they arrived, and she was not charged with battery on a law enforcement officer. The couple were released Monday after posting a bond. Orlando City provided the following statement to WESH 2 News:
“The Club is aware that goalkeeper Mason Stajduhar was arrested early Sunday morning. We are currently gathering more information and will have no further comment at this time.”
Orlando Pride Host the North Carolina Courage Tonight
After a 3-2 win on the road last Friday against the Washington Spirit, the Orlando Pride are back in the City Beautiful and will take on the North Carolina Courage tonight. Unbeaten in their six games so far this season, the Pride have also won their past three games and sit fourth in the standings. They’re tied on points with a Courage team that beat the Seattle Reign Saturday. Orlando has scored at least one goal in every match this season. Forward Barbra Banda had a great performance in that win against the Spirit, so hopefully the scoring trend continues tonight for the Pride.
Orlando City/Pride Earn Golden Brick Awards
Have you enjoyed the new food options at the stadium? I know I have, and I’m looking forward to trying even more. The efforts made by Orlando City’s front office to feature more local food and beverage options did not go unnoticed, as the club won the Hospitality & Dining category in the Downtown Orlando Partnership’s 2023 Golden Brick Awards. The Orlando Pride’s 2023 Highway Woman Kit also won the award in the Arts & Culture category. The home jersey was inspired by the work of Mary Ann Carroll, the sole woman in the famed Highwaymen artists from decades ago.
Colin Guske Speaks On Signing First Pro Contract
Orlando City Development Academy player Colin Guske signed his first professional contract with the club last month and spoke on the importance of this moment in his career. The 17-year-old is now on an MLS NEXT Pro contract with Orlando City B, and he has started in nearly every game for the Young Lions this year. Both of Guske’s brothers have also played for Orlando City’s academy over the years, and he thanked his family for helping him reach this point.
“It’s awesome to represent the Guskes,” Colin said. “Thanks to my brothers for always pushing me through early mornings and late nights, always putting in the work, doing video sessions, everything. My sister as well, for always being there for me and my parents, too. They’re always helping me and what was the best for me.”
Free Kicks
- Enjoy all of the sights and sounds from the Pride’s big win over the Spirit in the nation’s capital.
- Spirit defender Anna Heilferty will miss the remainder of the season after suffering an ACL injury in the team’s loss to the Pride.
- American forward Haji Wright scored his 19th goal across all competitions in Coventry City’s 2-1 loss to Ipswich Town. He will have a chance to make it 20 when Coventry hosts Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.
- The Champions League semifinals are underway and Real Madrid and Bayern Munich played to a 2-2 draw in Germany. The second leg will take place on May 8 in Madrid.
That will do it for today. If you can make it out to the stadium tonight to catch the Pride in action, I strongly suggest you do so. Barbra Banda is about to take the NWSL by storm and you’ll want to see it in person. Vamos Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 4/30/24
Luana’s season ends with Hodgkins Lymphoma diagnosis, San Diego linked with Chucky Lozano, U.S. and Mexico withdraw 2027 World Cup bid, and more.
Happy Tuesday, everyone. It was another busy weekend of Orlando soccer, and things aren’t going to slow down anytime soon. May is an absolutely packed month for all three teams, and the games will be coming thick and fast. We have a lot to discuss this morning, so let’s jump into the links.
Luana Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
This week started off with some very sad news, as the Orlando Pride announced on Monday that midfielder Luana has been placed on the Season-Ending Injury list as a result of her being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The Brazilian international is starting chemotherapy treatments with the Orlando Health Cancer Institute. In a statement, Luana thanked both the Brazilian National Team and the Pride for the support she’s been receiving. Seb Hines and Rafaelle also spoke about how the team has been supporting Luana.
San Diego Reportedly Nears Deal for Chucky Lozano
The Athletic’s Tom Bogert has reported that San Diego FC is in advanced talks to sign Chucky Lozano ($) from PSV Eindhoven. The Dutch team is expected to receive a transfer fee in the area of $12 million, and Lozano would likely be the highest-profile player for the expansion team ahead of its maiden Major League Soccer season in 2025. While nothing is official, San Diego is said to be hopeful of getting a deal done before Copa America kicks off this summer.
U.S. and Mexico Withdraw 2027 Women’s World Cup Bid
The United States and Mexico have announced their decision to withdraw a joint bid for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, and instead focus on bidding for the 2031 edition of the tournament. The bid had made it to the final three of the selection process, in addition to a bid from Brazil and a joint effort from Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlowe Cone cited a desire to have more time to prepare while also having the opportunity to learn from the experience of the joint effort of hosting the 2026 World Cup. As far as who will host in 2027, the decision will be made on May 17, with Germany having hosted a Women’s World Cup back in 2011, while Brazil would be the first South American nation to host the tournament.
English Premier League Approves Spending Cap
Premier League teams took the first step towards implementing a spending cap on Monday. While a final vote is still needed to ratify the proposed changes, Monday’s vote gave the green light to start the legal and economic studies needed to change to a spending cap model. The proposed cap would be based on how much the lowest earning Premier League team earns from television rights, and could be implemented for the 2025-2026 season. There were 16 teams that voted in favor of continuing the process of moving towards a salary cap, while Chelsea abstained from voting, and Manchester United, Manchester City, and Aston Villa voted against the motion.
Free Kicks
- The Pride have risen to third in CBSsports.com’s NWSL power rankings.
- Meanwhile, Orlando City is down to 20th in ESPN.com’s MLS power rankings.
- There are a number of Americans playing in midweek games, so make sure you have everything marked down on your calendar.
- Speaking of Americans, Jesse Marsch has been linked with South Korea’s managerial opening.
- Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny have purchased a minority stake in Necaxa.
That does it for me this morning. Vamos Orlando!
Lion Links
Lion Links: 4/29/24
Orlando City and OCB lose to Toronto, Pride beat the Spirit in Washington, EPL title race update, and more.
Hello, Mane Landers. I hope all is well with you down in Florida. It was a mixed weekend for our teams, with the Pride winning, while Orlando City and OCB lost. I’ve been busy covering high school volleyball, badminton, and soccer throughout the past week. There is plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.
Lions Lose at Home to Toronto FC
Orlando City SC saw its four-match unbeaten streak come to an end, losing 2-1 to Toronto FC at Inter&Co Stadium on Saturday. Duncan McGuire scored the opening goal to put Orlando ahead in the first half. The Lions held on to the 1-0 lead until late in the second half, when goals from Tyrese Spicer and Prince Owusu put the Reds up 2-1, and they were able to hang on and walk out of Orlando with all three points. Toronto FC has won two in a row in league play and is fourth in the Eastern Conference with 16 points. Meanwhile, the Lions are in 13th with nine points. Orlando City will look to bounce back Saturday at home as it takes on FC Cincinnati.
Pride Grab Road Win Over Washington Spirit
The Orlando Pride held on to defeat the Washington Spirit 3-2 at Audi Field Friday — their third straight victory. Angelina scored to put the Pride ahead in the first half, but the Spirit equalized just before halftime. Barbra Banda scored her first goal for the Pride, and Summer Yates added her third goal of the season, giving the Pride a 3-1 advantage in the second half. Ashley Hatch pulled one back for the Spirit on a howler by goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse, but the Pride keep their unbeaten streak alive at six matches (3-0-3). Orlando remains undefeated and is fourth in the NWSL table with 12 points. Next up for the Pride is a pair of home matches this week, starting Wednesday at home against the North Carolina Courage. Orlando will host Racing Louisville FC Sunday.
OCB Falls at Home to Toronto FC II
Like the first team, Orlando City B also lost 2-1 to Toronto FC II in its first home match at Osceola County Stadium. The Young Lions went down early in the match when Charles Sharp scored for Toronto FC II to take a 1-0 lead. Wilfredo Rivera scored the equalizer in the second half to tie the match, however, late in the second half, Jesus Batiz scored the game-winning goal to seal the win for Toronto. The Young Lions have yet to win a match at home, but has played well on the road this season and are on a four-match unbeaten streak away. The Young Lions will face MLS NEXT Pro Eastern Conference leaders Chattanooga FC Saturday at Finley Stadium.
Manchester City and Arsenal Win to Keep EPL Title Race Close
The Premier League title race is going down to the wire as Manchester City and Arsenal won their matches over the weekend. Arsenal held on to defeat rival Tottenham Hotspur 3-2 in the North London Derby. That result moves Arsenal into first with 80 points with three matches remaining. Manchester City shut out Nottingham Forest 2-0 and is second, with 79 points and still four matches left to play. Liverpool dropped points to West Ham in a 2-2 draw, putting another blow to the Reds’ title chances and leaving them in third with 75 points and three matches left.
Free Kicks
- If you missed it, check out the first goal from Pride forward Barbra Banda.
- Rose Lavelle made her debut for NJ/NY Gotham FC Sunday and scored the tying goal late in stoppage time to secure a point for her new team in a 1-1 draw against Racing Louisville FC.
- Despite getting a 3-3 draw against Le Havre over the weekend, Paris Saint-Germain won its 10th Ligue 1 title after AS Monaco lost 3-2 to Lyon.
- Mohamed Salah refused to reveal the reason for his touchline disagreement with Liverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp during the club’s match against West Ham Saturday.
That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday and I’ll see you next time.
-
Orlando City1 week ago
Orlando City vs. CF Montreal: Player Grades and Man of the Match
-
Lion Links2 weeks ago
Lion Links: 4/17/24
-
Orlando City1 week ago
Orlando City vs. CF Montreal: Five Takeaways
-
Orlando City3 days ago
Orlando City vs. Toronto FC: Five Takeaways
-
Orlando Pride2 weeks ago
Orlando Pride vs. San Diego Wave FC: Final Score 1-0 as Pride Continue Unbeaten Run
-
Orlando Pride2 weeks ago
Orlando Pride vs. San Diego Wave FC: Preview, How to Watch, TV Info, Live Stream, Lineups, Match Thread, and More
-
Orlando City4 days ago
Orlando City vs. Toronto FC: Final Score 2-1 as Lions Blow Late Lead at Home
-
Orlando City2 weeks ago
Orlando City vs. CF Montreal: Final Score 2-2 as Lions’ Transition Defense Fails in Road Draw