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Lion Links: 5/11/16

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9 years ago

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Welcome to your Wednesday edition of Lion Links. We still have several days until Orlando City takes on Sporting Kansas City, but there’s plenty to talk about. It’s been a while since I’ve had the pleasure of bringing you the daily dose of pertinent news in the world of Orlando City soccer. While it may be a temporary thing, don’t think that I didn’t enjoy it, nor that I don’t appreciate all of you. That’s enough kissing up to you, my dear readers, let’s hit the Links!

Orlando City Players in the News

It seems that Head Coach Adrian Heath is hopeful that Pedro Ribeiro can make a return from his back surgery before the end of the regular season. Heath hopes to have Ribeiro for the last five to six weeks of the season. I think we’d all like the big guy back by then if possible. In other news, it seems that AC Milan might have some interest in Orlando City midfielder Cristian Higuita (you’ll need to translate the page in Chrome or Google). I prefer it when we get their old players (cough, cough…Kaká), rather than them getting ours. But, what would soccer be without such rumors? Speaking of rumors…

MLS Transfer Deadline Looms

There’s not a lot of time left in the MLS transfer window, seeing as it closes tonight at 1 a.m. ET. That can only mean one thing…rumors and speculation! It seems that Kei Kamara is none too happy in Ohio, according to our friends over at Massive Report. It will be interesting to see if anything comes of the fuss, since we saw this earlier in the day:

If you're hazy on the MLS transfer window, just remember it ends tomorrow, May 12, and doesn't open back up until July 4.

MLS Represents in the Copa América Centenario

This year’s Copa América Centenario isn’t only being played in the U.S., it will also feature quite a few players from MLS. As of right now there are eight MLS players on the USMNT roster alone. Orlando City’s own Cristian Higuita gets a shout out since he’s made it on to Colombia’s preliminary roster. Plenty of teams in CONCACAF will feature players from MLS as well. With the Copa being played in the U.S., it is a great time for those MLS players, cities, and fans to shine.

Speaking of Lions on international rosters, a young Lion has been called up by the Canadian U-23 National Team ahead of upcoming friendlies against teams from Guyana and Grenada. Richie Laryea, Orlando City's first-round 2016 MLS SuperDraft pick, who was taken at No. 7 overall, will take part in the midfield for the 10-day Caribbean training camp. Laryea is currently playing on loan at Orlando City B.

CONCACAF and Soccer United Marketing Join Forces

While not as evil as FIFA, CONCACAF hasn't been without its own scandals and corruption. They've also been without a marketing partner since last July. Now, they have signed on with Soccer United Marketing, the same organization that MLS works with, for sponsorship, tournaments, and events. While I'd bet that SUM can't "cross the streams" between CONCACAF and MLS, it's not hard to see where like interests might end up being served.

Alex Morgan and Hope Solo Speak Out

In a recent Health Magazine article, Orlando Pride's own Alex Morgan answered questions on everything from workouts and eating healthy to the disparity in the field conditions and pay between the men's and women's games. I don't think I'm spoiling anything to tell you she tries to eat right, has specific workouts, and does yoga. Oh, and she isn't very happy about the playing conditions in last summer's Women's World Cup. There's plenty more in there, and it's pretty obvious why she is the public face of the Orlando Pride, and the USWNT. Speaking of USWNT concerns with inequality, Hope Solo contributes her two cents in this Vox video as well.

The Union take on "the Patriots of MLS" tonight

If all of this soccer goodness has you in need of a match to watch, well you are in luck. The Philadelphia Union host the LA Galaxy tonight at 7 p.m. ET on MLS Live. Plus, Philadelphia Union Head Coach Jim Curtin is either complimenting LA, or throwing some shade.

"They're the gold standard of the league in recent years for sure — the Patriots of MLS — and they have a way of winning." – Jim Curtin

It really depends on how you feel about the Patriots, doesn't it?

That's all for today, Mane Landers, but don't forget to check out the newest Pride Pub this Thursday to prepare for Orlando City's match against Sporting KC!

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Lion Links

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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15 hours 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

2 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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Lion Links: 6/3/25

Orlando City B announces signings, details of Concacaf W Champions Cup, UEFA Nations League preview, and more.

Published

3 days ago

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June 3, 2025

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Jeremy Reper

Good morning, everyone. It’s been a pretty brutal last two games for Orlando City, there’s no getting around that fact. While it’s never fun to not have the team in action, a two-week break between games maybe isn’t the worst thing in this particular case. Even though it’ll be a minute before the Lions are back in action, we still have plenty of things to talk about, so let’s get into today’s links.

Orlando City B Announces Signings

Orlando City B announced on Monday that it has signed Clovis Archange and Jackson Platts to MLS NEXT Pro contracts. The pair are graduates of the Orlando City Development Academy and were part of the team that won the U-18 Generation Adidas Cup earlier this year. The 18-year-old Platts captained the team in the final, while Archange was named as one of the players to watch before the tournament started. They’ve both featured for their countries at the youth level, with Platts appearing for the United States U-16 and U-18 teams, and Archange suiting up for Canada’s U-17 side. Congratulations to both players!

Concacaf Announces W Champions Cup Details

Concacaf has named the 10 teams that will participate 2025-2026 Concacaf W Champions Cup and has announced the pots for tonight’s draw. The Orlando Pride are one of three American teams participating in the second year of the competition, and have been placed into Pot 2. Teams will be divided into two groups of five, with each team facing every club in its group once, and the top two sides from each group then advancing to the semifinals. The winner gets a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, and the FIFA Women’s Club World Cup, which is set to be held for the first time in 2028. The draw takes place tonight at 8 p.m.

UEFA Nations League Preview

The UEFA Nations League returns this week, with the semifinals set for tomorrow and Thursday, and the third-place game and final taking place on Sunday. Things get started on Wednesday afternoon with Germany facing off against Portugal in Munich. Germany put away Italy 5-4 on aggregate in the quarterfinals to get to the semis for the first time, while Portugal beat Denmark 5-2, and is hunting for its second Nations League trophy. Thursday has Spain taking on France in Stuttgart. The Spanish beat the Netherlands on penalties in the semis to get here, while France took out Croatia on penalties to punch its ticket. There’s plenty of recent history in this one as these teams also met in the semifinals of Euro 2024 last year, with Spain claiming a 2-1 win.

Transfer Rumor Roundup

The transfer rumor mill has kicked into full swing, so let’s catch up on some of the big talking points. Starting in England, Manchester United has reportedly increased its interest in Brian Mbuemo, with the Brentford forward said to also be interested in moving to the club. There are said to be a number of Premier League teams interested in signing Southampton midfielder Tyler Dibling after his team was relegated to the Championship this season. Jobe Bellingham will reportedly follow in his brother Jude’s footsteps, as he’s reportedly decided to join Borussia Dortmund. Finally, Inter Milan is reportedly interested in signing Marcus Rashford as the Italians look to rebuild the squad following a brutal defeat in the UEFA Champions League final.

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  • Here’s a first look at Alex Freeman in his USMNT kit:

That’s all I have for you this morning. Vamos Orlando!

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