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Lion Links: 7/20/15

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10 years ago

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This isn't a pep talk Orlando City fans. Because you don't need one.

All you need to know is that next weekend, the Lions will head to the Bronx to take on New York City FC, North American soccer’s equivalent of that rich kid down the street who gets to spend all of daddy’s money. And it looks like they’re is going to be unveiling some shiny new toys against Orlando, as Frank Lampard and Andrea Pirlo are set to make their MLS debuts.

So that anger you’re feeling right now, that frustration with the questionable officiating the Lions have endured during their last couple games? Just channel that towards reminding NYCFC that a successful club is built not bought and that nothing can stop the purple hurricane that is descending on New York City this week..at least until Kaká is sent off three minutes in for breathing on David Villa.

So, to help you get ready for battle, here are your Monday morning Lion Links.

Recapping Saturday's Loss to NYRB

For the third week in a row, Orlando City found themselves on the wrong side of some questionable officiating, as a first half red card to Cyle Larin completely changed the complexion of the match. RBNY scored early and late to bookend a 2-0 victory over the Lions, as Orlando emerges from a two-game home stand with absolutely nothing to show for it. The good news is that Orlando City remains in playoff position this week and still controls its own destiny in that department.

As always, The Mane Land is your go-to source for coverage of Saturday's clash with the Red Bulls, featuring…

Orlando City to Appeal Larin Red Card

Club president Philip Rawlins tweeted on Sunday morning that Orlando City planned to appeal the red card issued to Cyle Larin during Saturday's loss to the Red Bulls.

Larin was sent off in the 32nd minute for this studs-up challenge on Sacha Kljestan that sent the RBNY midfielder (and his mustache) tumbling in the air. It was, to be generous, a slightly “dramatic” reaction from Kljestan. See for yourself:

It's important to remember that MLS appeals work a little different than those in most other North American sports leagues.

Each club is allowed two unsuccessful red card appeals throughout the season. If Orlando's appeal is successful, then it doesn't count against their total, Larin can play next week against NYCFC, and everyone goes home happy. If their appeal is rejected, then it does count against their total and Larin is still out.

But, if the appeal not only fails but is deemed "frivolous" by the MLS officials who review it, then Orlando loses the right to make red card appeals for two years, they're fined $250,000 and Larin's suspension will be doubled. Yikes.

Be sure to check back with The Mane Land for the result of Orlando City’s appeal and reaction to the decision.

The Wall Unveils "Holy Trinity" Tifo Against Red Bulls

Flavio, Inchy and Phil Rawlins, in case it wasn't clear. Nice work, as always, from the best fans in MLS.

Drogba Wants Montreal for MLS Move

Maybe he just wants to keep wearing blue.

With Didier Drogba eyeing a move to MLS, several teams have reportedly been in the running for his services. But reports out of Canada indicate that the Ivory Coast legend might be most interested in a move to Montreal.

While the Impact are currently sitting outside the Eastern Conference playoff picture, they're the only MLS team to play in a city where Drogba's native language, French, is primarily spoken. The Francophone environment reportedly appeals to Drogba, who has spent the last several seasons playing everywhere from Shanghai to Turkey and England.

A legend in both the Premier League and the international game, Drogba has scored 104 goals over two stints with Chelsea and has been capped 104 times with Ivory Coast. He would be the latest European star to make the jump to MLS, and another coup for a league trying to gain more international recognition.

USMNT Ends Diplomatic Relations with Cuba in 6-0 Rout

The USMNT dispatched Cuba 6-0 on Saturday in the quarterfinals of the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup.

It was a scoreline unlike anything seen in the knockout round of the tournament (literally, it was the biggest blowout post-group stage in Gold Cup history), as the United States took advantage of a shorthanded Cuba squad to move within two wins of a spot in the 2017 Confederations Cup.

Clint Dempsey got the party started just four minutes in, en route to his first ever international hat trick. While Dempsey was responsible for 50% of the final scoreline, he was joined by Aron Jóhannsson, Gyasi Zardes and Omar Gonzales, as the United States cruised past a Cuba team that shocked many in advancing past the group stage.

Several Cuban players defected throughout the tournament, including starting forward Ariel Martinez, as Leones del Caribe were forced to make do with the players they had against the USMNT. To put it simply, it would not be enough.

The USMNT will face Jamaica in the semifinals of the tournament on Wednesday, with the winner advancing to the Gold Cup Final in Philadelphia.

Zlatan Returning to AC Milan, According to Reports

More accurately, AC Milan announces they'll be returning to Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

The Swedish international, long-considered one of the best football players of his generation (especially by himself), could be headed back to Serie A at the end of the summer, if a report from Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà is to be believed.

The 33-year old Ibrahimovic has enjoyed a rather nomadic career across Europe, but he had perhaps his greatest success playing in Milan, where he scored an astounding 28 goals in 33 appearances during the 2011-2012 season.

That's it for Lion Links today. Have a good week everybody!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 6/6/25

Alex Freeman called up for Concacaf Gold Cup, Orlando Pride get ready for the Houston Dash, Orlando City B plays tonight, and more.

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1 day ago

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June 6, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

Happy Friday! I’ll be spending this weekend celebrating my birthday by beating my friends at mini golf with no mercy but still hope to catch some soccer over the next few days. I’ve also been on a bit of a movie kick and plan on catching Wes Anderson’s new flick at some point soon. But for now, let’s dive into today’s links!

Alex Freeman Called Up For Gold Cup

Orlando City defender Alex Freeman was officially called up by the United States Men’s National Team for the Concacaf Gold Cup this summer. He’s the only Lion who will be at the tournament and is one of seven uncapped USMNT players on the roster. The 20-year-old could receive more playing time than expected, as right back Sergino Dest is not on the roster so that he can recover over the summer. Left back John Tolkin was added to replace Dest, so Freeman has a real shot at making a claim for the position this month. The U.S. will take on Turkey Saturday in the first of two friendlies before its first Gold Cup match against Trinidad & Tobago on June 15.

Orlando Pride Prepares to Host the Houston Dash

With the international break for women’s soccer over, the Orlando Pride return to action Saturday with a home game against the Houston Dash. It should be a great opportunity for the Pride to ease back into the swing of things against a Dash team that’s only scored 10 goals this season. Pride midfielder Ally Lemos spoke on the benefit of being able to rest heading into this match while maintaining a winning mindset from a 3-1 victory on May 23.

Anna Moorhouse Called Up For 2025 Euros

Orlando Pride goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse was named to England’s final roster for the 2025 UEFA European Women’s Championship. She’s one of three goalkeepers on the squad following Mary Earp’s surprise retirement from international soccer, and she will likely compete with fellow uncapped player Khiara Keating for the backup position behind Hannah Hampton. Moorhouse has started in every game for the Pride this season and was an NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year finalist for her record-breaking season last year. England’s Euro run will begin July 5 against France before other group matches against the Netherlands and Wales.

Orlando City B Takes On Huntsville City FC

The Young Lions are riding high after a 2-1 win over Chattanooga FC and will take that momentum into tonight’s road match against Huntsville City FC. Midfielder Noah Levis scored his first career goal in that home win, with Justin Hylton providing the assist in his OCB debut. Orlando’s offense has been hot and cold this season but has a variety of attacking talent that can create chances in different ways. The Young Lions have only won once on the road, but a win tonight would lift them to third in the Eastern Conference.

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  • FIFA Club World Cup action is coming to the City Beautiful this month and Orlando City legend Kaká spoke on how it’s nice for Orlando to host games.
  • San Diego Wave Head Coach Jonas Eidevall was named NWSL Coach of the Month. The Wave were undefeated in May, winning three of their four matches to climb to second in the league standings.
  • The NWSL will allow intraleague loans for all teams, with the players needing to consent to the move in order for it to happen. Denver and Boston’s expansion teams will have access to potentially over $1 million in Allocation Money starting on July 1 to build their rosters before the 2026 season.
  • Atletico Madrid is reportedly close to signing American midfielder Johnny Cardoso from Real Betis.
  • South Korea, Uzbekistan, and Jordan all qualified for the 2026 World Cup, while China was eliminated from contention. Australia beat Japan 1-0 and will qualify so long as it doesn’t lose heavily to Saudi Arabia on June 10.
  • Spain beat France 5-4 in a wild game to reach the UEFA Nations League final against Portugal on Sunday. Lamine Yamal continues to take the world by storm, but a late rally by France nearly completed a comeback.

That’s all I have for you this time around. I hope you all have a fantastic Friday and rest of your weekend!

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Lion Links: 6/5/25

MLS All-Star voting update, Kerry Abello shines with USWNT, Sergio Zapata earns recognition, and more.

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2 days ago

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June 5, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Jeremy Reper

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.

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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: 6/4/25

USWNT wins as Abello gets first cap, Orlando Pride’s Concacaf W Champions Cup draw, Club World Cup in Orlando, and more.

Published

3 days ago

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June 4, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. Tuesday was a busy soccer day, especially on the women’s side. We have plenty of Orlando Pride news, and the USWNT secured yet another victory. I’m hoping the good vibes continue since I’ll be coming down to Orlando for the Pride’s match this Saturday. If you’re going to the match, let me know, as I’d love to meet as many of our readers as possible. For now, let’s get to the links.

USWNT Blanks Jamaica

The USWNT defeated Jamaica 4-0 in a friendly at Energizer Park in St. Louis. The Orlando Pride’s Kerry Abello got her first start and her first cap in the match. She went the full 90 minutes and almost had her first international goal in the second half, but the chance went a bit wide of the right post. Ally Sentnor and Lynn Biyendolo each scored a brace as the U.S. rolled to an easy win.

Pride Internationals

Abello wasn’t the only Pride player to make an international appearance. Marta returned to international duty for Brazil getting the start and the captain’s armband in a 2-1 win over Japan. Both Grace Chanda and Barbra Banda started for Zambia in the 2-0 loss to South Africa in the Three Nations Challenge. Congratulations are also due to Zara Chavoshi, who earned her first cap with the Canadian Women’s National Team in the match against Haiti.

Concacaf W Champions Cup Draw

The Concacaf W Champions Cup draw happened yesterday and the Orlando Pride are in Group A with Club America Femenil, CF Pachuca Femenil, LD Alajuelense, and Chorrillo FC. Group B consists of NJ/NY Gotham FC, the Washington Spirit, CF Monterrey Femenil, Vancouver Rise FC Academy, and Alianza Women FC. The competition kicks off Aug. 19-21.

FIFA Loves Orlando

FIFA President Gianni Infantino sat for an interview with Jamie Seh of WKMG Orlando. Infantino spoke about the upcoming Club World Cup matches at Inter&Co Stadium and Camping World Stadium. FIFA loves Orlando enough for the city to host the Club World Cup, but not the actual World Cup. Here is the schedule for the matches in Orlando. We will be bringing you coverage of these matches.

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That will do it for today. Check back as we get you ready for the return of the Orlando Pride this weekend. Vamos Orlando!

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