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Lion Links: 6/3/18

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6 years ago

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Happy Sunday, Mane Landers! There’s a decent amount on tap today as the U.S. Men’s National Team traveled to Ireland for an international friendly, the Lions clashed with the Pigeons in New York City, and tonight, the Pride take on Seattle Reign FC.

It’s been a fun weekend on my end, I hope it has been for you all as well. If not, cheer up! I’ve got some tasty links for you below, and then you’ve got a potentially outstanding match-up to look forward to at 9 p.m. ET as the Pride play on the west coast against the Reign.

Enough talk, more Links. Here’s your Sunday serving, Mane Landers. Bon appetite:

Orlando City SC Falls Again at New York City FC

The Lions traveled to Yankee Stadium for the second time this season and dominated possession in the first half, and even had a few dangerous attempts of their own. But in the end Orlando City wasted its scoring opportunities en route to a 3-0 road loss. Sacha Kljestan couldn’t keep a penalty kick on the correct side of the post as the Lions hit the woodwork three times.

Make sure you check back later for Guilherme Torres’ five takeaways, too.

Young USMNT Squad Falls Late to Ireland

In a match that opportunistically featured a lot of young faces for the Americans, the boys in the stars and stripes fell just short of a result, losing in the closing seconds to a more seasoned Ireland side. Honestly, the match looked to be ending in a draw, but Ireland rightfully earned the win, as they were the better side on the majority of the day. Bobby Wood got on the score sheet for the Americans, but goals from Ireland’s Graham Burke and Alan Judge turned the game around. Scott Carnevale has your match recap.

Pride Look to Extend Four-Match Road Unbeaten Streak

Today’s match in Seattle, if won or drawn by the Pride, would extend an impressive unbeaten road stint that’s seen the team turn a lackluster start of the campaign into an energizing (hopefully) springboard for more future successes, both home and away. The current road unbeaten streak stands at four (Chicago, Utah, Portland, and Chicago), but an away match to the Reign almost certainly threatens the streak, especially with backup Haley Kopmeyer (earning her first start for the club with Ashlyn Harris out on international duty) being thrown to the wolves, in a trial by fire match-up that’s sure to see a lot of shots from Seattle. Several injuries and international obligations will hinder the Pride in this one (Marta and Rachel Hill will both be out), so it may well be a rough ride. Tom Sermanni himself admitted:

“Our most recent game was one of the most complete games we’ve played in a while but as we seem to be settling in, we’re now heading into a match that will be impacted by both international call-ups and injuries,” Pride Head Coach Tom Sermanni said. “That being said, Seattle will also be dealing with its share of disruptions. This hasn’t been an easy month travel-wise, but it is our job to go out there, leave everything on the turf and hopefully be returning from the West Coast with another strong result.”

Regardless, the match is sure to be a cracker, and I’ll surely be tuning in.

Wayne Rooney and D.C. United in Advanced Talks, Move Imminent

According to Sky Sports News, Rooney and D.C. United are in advanced talks over a move to the capital city to become the club’s Designated Player, with the news coming out that a potential deal worth close to $10 million over two years is nearly finalized. The move could become official as soon as Monday, but, should the deal go through, Rooney won’t be available for selection until at least July 10 (when MLS’ Secondary Transfer Window opens). With D.C. United’s new venue set to be unveiled for its first official match on July 16, something tells me that a grand spectacle will go down at a brand new Audi Field, housing a team with a brand new star.

Cristiano Ronaldo Reportedly Told Teammates He Is Leaving Real Madrid

Not only had the iconic talisman informed his teammates of his departure prior to the Champion’s League final triumph over Liverpool (3-1), but according to Marca’s Jose Felix Diaz, he had apparently informed them weeks before that fatefully historic night in Kiev that saw Real Madrid win a third consecutive European crown (and that’ll unfortunately always be remembered as the night Loris Karius pooped his proverbial pants). Regardless, the news is monumental, and could cause major financial and league-table-tilting waves throughout Europe. Real Madrid’s record holder for all-time goals will not go cheaply, however, and his release clause comes to the tune of around one billion euros. I don’t know what else to say after typing that sentence, so I’m ending this link with a “damn.”

Free Kicks

  • Bobby Warshaw over at mlssoccer.com provides you with a perfect breakdown of the MLS Eastern Conference picture right now, notably keeping a close eye on what looks to become a tight race for the East’s final playoff spots.
  • Although Orlando City’s own Abraham Valbuena bowed out of the video game competition early, the Global Series Playoffs for the eWorld Cup Grand Final began on Monday, and six of the world’s best eMLS representatives are fighting to become the world’s best FIFA champ. I’d still take ‘em all down.

  • Quite the classy move by NYCFC last night, as the club paid tribute on Pride Night to the victims of the tragic shooting at Orlando’s Pulse nightclub. Personally, it was well-received in a profound way. Thank you, and it’s important to remember the victims.

  • The fellas over at mlssoccer.com (Bobby Warshaw and Matthew Doyle) had a nice little conversation about the state of the USMNT’s young future, specifically speaking on Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie.
  • Real Salt Lake is reportedly in talks with Paraguayan winger Osmar Leguizamon, a countryman of Lions’ attacker Josué Colmán.
  • An independent panel has rescinded FC Dallas’ Cristian Colman’s red card and suspension following alleged “violent conduct” in the closing minutes of Dallas’ 3-2 win over the LA Galaxy last Wednesday night. Take a gander at the video that’s included in the link…then laugh. If you’re keeping track, that’s three red cards rescinded in a week. Get it together, PRO, you’ve got replay now and everything.
  • England’s gaffer Gareth Southgate has hinted that Jordan Pickford will start in Russia for the country’s opening match vs. Tunisia.
  • Oh, and uh, I also love me some Tim Weah. #TheFuture. His club side PSG took notice too!

That’s about all that’s fit to print today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Pride this evening, and then have a great week. Much love.

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 5/23/25

Tonight’s OCB match moved to Sunday, Alex Freeman makes USMNT roster, FanDuel Sports Network will stream Orlando Pride games, and more.

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2 hours ago

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May 23, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Happy Friday! A long weekend is ahead of us and there is plenty of Orlando soccer to enjoy as well. I’ll be celebrating my nephew’s first birthday this weekend, so it should be a nice next couple of days visiting family. Let’s dive right into today’s links from around the soccer world!

OCB Match Moved to Sunday in Kissimmee

As a heads up, Orlando City B is no longer playing today. OCB’s match against Atlanta United 2 was originally scheduled for tonight in Atlanta, but it was instead postponed to 7 p.m. Sunday and relocated to Osceola Heritage Park rather than Fifth Third Stadium in Georgia. Stadium availability was cited as the reason for the change, and the match will be played behind closed doors, although it will still be streamed live. The Young Lions are coming off of a 3-0 win over Inter Miami II and will face an Atlanta team that has drawn its last four games.

Alex Freeman Makes USMNT Training Camp Roster

Orlando City right back Alex Freeman was named to the United States Men’s National Team’s training camp roster ahead of friendlies next month against Turkey and Switzerland. The 20-year-old is one of five uncapped players on the roster and one of 16 MLS players. He’ll likely be behind Sergino Dest on the depth chart, but Joe Scally was not called up for this window. There are many notable players absent, opening the door for players like Freeman across multiple positions to stake their claim to participate in this summer’s Gold Cup and the World Cup next year.

FanDuel Sports Network Will Stream Select Pride Games

The Orlando Pride will have eight of its remaining games streamed on FanDuel Sports Network, including tonight’s road game against the Utah Royals. The regional network, which used to be called Bally Sports before rebranding, is available on various providers throughout Florida and there is an app for streaming as well. Personally, I find this as just another cog in a messy machine of NWSL coverage options, but I imagine this is handy for those out there who are already accustomed to using the network to watch other Floridian pro sports teams.

Winter Garden Lands USL League One Team

Another pro soccer team is coming to Central Florida, as the United Soccer League announced its intent to bring a USL League One team to the area. Central Florida Pro Soccer’s ownership group has plans for a development in Winter Garden that would include a 5,000-seat multi-purpose soccer stadium. The plans also include recreational fields, a hotel, parks, and a walking trail. The group will gather input from the community in the coming months to help determine the team’s colors, badge, and name.

Free Kicks

  • Kansas City Current defender Alana Cook was placed on the season-ending injury list due to a torn ACL, MCL, and meniscus sustained in the club’s match against the Orlando Pride.
  • NJ/NY Gotham FC and Tigres will square off in the Concacaf W Champions Cup final on Saturday. The winner will earn a spot in the 2026 Women’s Champions Cup and the 2028 Women’s Club World Cup.
  • Luka Modric penned a farewell to Real Madrid fans as his time with the club has come to an end. I don’t know where his next stop will be, but I sure hope it’s not with a team the Lions still have to face this year.

That’s all I have for you today. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your holiday weekend!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 5/22/25

Orlando City ousted from U.S. Open Cup, OCB’s Justin Ellis named Player of the Matchweek, Tottenham wins Europa League, and more.

Published

1 day ago

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May 22, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Well, that could have gone better. It’s understandable to feel a bit deflated after Wednesday night’s game, especially after so many positive Orlando City results as of late. The good news though is that we’re another day closer to a holiday weekend that should include some good times or at least rest and relaxation. Let’s dive into today’s links!

Orlando City Eliminated from U.S. Open Cup

The Lions lost 3-2 at home to Nashville SC in the U.S. Open Cup’s round of 16, ending the team’s run in the tournament. Orlando struck first in a rollercoaster of a match, and Ramiro Enrique pulled the Lions level after they fell behind, but rookie Wyatt Meyer scored the winner for the visitors. The loss snapped Orlando’s 12-game unbeaten streak across all competitions and Orlando looked like a team that played five other matches already this month. Orlando will need to shake off this loss as it prepares to host the Portland Timbers on Saturday.

Justin Ellis Named MLS NEXT Pro Player of the Matchweek

Orlando City B midfielder Justin Ellis was selected as MLS NEXT Pro Player of the Matchweek for his role in the team’s 3-0 win over Inter Miami II. Ellis, who turned 18 years old last week, assisted on both of OCB’s first two goals before scoring from the penalty spot himself. It’s been quite the year so far for Ellis, as he also scored six goals in the Generation Adidas Cup to help Orlando win the U-18 title in April. The Young Lions are back in action Friday with a road match against rival Atlanta United 2.

U.S. Open Cup Round of 16 Results

Comebacks were a theme throughout the U.S. Open Cup’s round of 16. Minnesota United took the lead, gave it up, and ultimately advanced thanks to defender Anthony Markanich scoring two late goals to beat St. Louis City 3-2 at Allianz Arena. Markanich was traded from St. Louis to Minnesota last year, adding a little salt in the wound for the visitors. D.C. United and Charlotte FC battled in a back-and-forth match that ended up with D.C. winning the penalty shootout after a 3-3 draw. The match between the New York Red Bulls and FC Dallas also went the distance, with the Red Bulls winning the shootout. The Philadelphia Union won 4-1 against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds to eliminate the last team from outside MLS. The draw for the quarterfinals will take place this morning.

Tottenham Hotspur Wins Europa League Final

Tottenham prevailed in this year’s Europa league final, winning 1-0 against Manchester United in Spain. Brennan Johnson’s goal was enough for Tottenham to end its 17-year wait for a major trophy. It was a bit of an underwhelming finish to what was a fairly exciting knockout stage, and this was United’s only loss in this year’s tournament. Tottenham has now qualified for next season’s Champions League despite currently being 17th in the English Premier League standings.

Free Kicks

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

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 5/21/25

The U.S. Open Cup journey resumes tonight, Javier Otero signs a new contract, Pride’s Sams and Abello called up, and more.

Published

2 days ago

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May 21, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. It is match day with Orlando City hosting Nashville SC tonight in Inter&Co Stadium. I hope you are able to make it out to support the club, since I will have to watch it on television. If you listen to The Mane Land PawedCast you know how much I want Orlando City to focus on the U.S. Open Cup — even at the expense of the Leagues Cup. For now, let’s get to the links.

Nashville is Next

As I mentioned above, the Lions take on Nashville SC in a U.S. Open Cup Round of 16 match tonight. Orlando City is riding a 12-match unbeaten streak through all competitions and has scored 14 goals in the past four games going back to its 5-0 victory over the Tampa Bay Rowdies. The Lions will look to continue their goal scoring ways to advance to the quarterfinals.

Javier Otero Has a New Contract

Orlando City signed goalkeeper Javier Otero to a new contract through the 2026 season with options for 2027 and 2028. Otero joined the Orlando City Academy in 2017, moving his way up to Orlando City B and, eventually, the first team. The signing secures Orlando City’s backup keeper for the immediate future.

Pride USWNT Call-Ups

Emily Sams and Kerry Abello were both called up to the USWNT training camp. This is Abello’s first call-up to the U.S. Women’s National Team. Sams and Abello make up two of Emma Hayes’ 24-player roster for the upcoming friendlies against China and Jamaica. Other notable players include Naomi Girma, Lynn Biyendolo, and Lo’eau LaBonta.

FIRST USWNT CALL UP FOR BELLO 🗣️

— Orlando Pride (@orlpride.com) 2025-05-20T15:06:37.081Z

USMNT Gold Cup News

Mauricio Pochettino has yet to name the final 26-player list for the Gold Cup. He has even put out there that he may give playing time to a goalkeeper other than Matt Turner. Pochettino sees the Gold Cup as a great opportunity for the team to bond during the last competition before the World Cup. Prior to the Gold Cup, the team has friendlies with Türkiye and Switzerland.

Free Kicks

  • The Kansas City Current may have defeated the Pride last match, but they paid dearly for it.
  • In sad news, former Sporting Kansas City player Gadi Kinda passed away. Kinda had been dealing with “a complex medical battle.”
  • In the “I’m not at all surprised” category, Lionel Messi was not fined by the league for any of his antics during or after the loss to Orlando City, including his criticism of officials, which is usually an automatic fine.

That will do it for today. Check back for our pre-match and post-match coverage tonight. You can also follow The Mane Land on Bluesky for match updates. Vamos Orlando!

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