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Lion Links: 2/3/18

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6 years ago

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Happy weekend, Mane Land readers! Orlando City had a very busy week with signings galore, social media videos posted everywhere, and some great interviews. The Orlando Pride got in on the fun as well.

Orlando City has its first preseason match today against Jacksonville University, it’s the first whiff of true soccer for the Lions!

Oh, and in case you are keeping track, only a month until the kickoff of the 2018 season.

Now, onto the links.

Sydney Leroux Joins the Pride via Trade with Utah Royals

Ladies and gentlemen, the day has finally arrived! Sydney Leroux will be playing soccer in Orlando this year in the same stadium as her husband, Dom Dwyer, as the Orlando Pride have traded a 2019 first-round NWSL draft pick for the 27-year-old USWNT striker. Fans have yearned for this trade since Dwyer was added to Orlando City last year and he has said in multiple interviews that he hopes his family can join him in Orlando.

Leroux came to Orlando after FC Kansas City’s season ended last year and has been in Orlando with Dom for the holidays. Coming into the season, Leroux was contracted to the Utah Royals (previously FCKC before that team folded) and was going to have to travel to Utah so she could play this season. Sydney adds a physical, dynamic piece to the Orlando attack. The Pride struggled with physical play last year so Leroux should fix this issue on the forward line. Welcome to Sydney on her move to the Pride!

Orlando City Acquires Amro Tarek on Loan from Wadi Degla FC

Orlando City has made a much-needed addition to its back line by adding Amro Tarek, a 25-year-old center back/left back from Wadi Degla FC. Originally from Los Angles, Tarek also has Egyptian roots and has played for various teams in the country. He’s had a variety of appearances with teams like Real Betis, VfL Wolfsburg reserves, and Columbus Crew, among others. Tarek also has one cap with the Egyptian national team and is a former teammate of newly acquired winger Justin Meram.

Mohamed El-Munir Takes His First Touches with Orlando City

Mohamed El-Munir has not only landed in Florida but has also joined the team in Jacksonville ahead of its scrimmage against Jacksonville University today. El-Munir ran into some issues with his visa and travel pushing back his arrival in Florida by at least a week. Many fans were concerned that the Libyan international had not arrived in camp yet. Now, since he is in camp, it should take a few days for him to get acclimated with the squad and the training schedule. He won’t be playing today, having only spent one session with his new teammates. I, for one, look forward to seeing what he can provide for this team. Here’s an interview with the new defender to learn a bit more about him.

Former Orlando Pride Player Sarah Hagen Retires

As we’ve mentioned in previous Lion Links, Orlando City’s youth system is gaining a quality coach in its ranks, in former Pride player Sarah Hagen. Hagen, who has played eight years in professional women’s soccer, announced her retirement from playing yesterday via Instagram. She spent the 2016 season with the Orlando Pride, appearing 17 times and scoring two goals. Hagen also had two caps with the USWNT back in 2014. Congratulations to Sarah on her wonderful career and we can’t wait to see what she can do coaching at the youth level.

Today I announce my retirement from professional soccer. It’s been an amazing journey to this point but my heart is somewhere else. I’ve joined Orlando City Youth Soccer as a coach and couldn’t be happier! I would like to thank all 4 clubs (@fcbfrauen @fckansascityblues @orlpride @houstondash ) that let me be a part of teams with some unforgettable teammates, friends, fans, and coaches. A special thanks to @fcbfrauen for taking a chance on me straight from college. Bayern not only helped me grow as a player but also as a person. Looking back at my 6 year career, the thing I’m most grateful for is the quality of friends that I’ve made all over the world. I’m beyond excited for the next chapter in my life and can’t thank you all enough for making the last one so memorable!!! ❤️💙💜🧡🍎

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Report: Orlando City Attempted to Add Paulo Henrique Ganso

According to a Spanish newspaper, Orlando City was interested in the services of Paulo Ganso, the Brazilian footballer who is currently playing with Sevilla. It was reported that Ganso was falling out of favor with Sevilla and Orlando City reached out to inquire about his services. The club was allegedly offering a $2 million salary to the Brazilian but he was not interested in a move to Orlando. The club then turned its attention to other players, resulting in the addition of Josué Colmán. Ganso would have been a nice piece for Orlando City but, even if the report is true, the club has responded in an impactful way. 

Anti-stadium Protest Begins in Overtown

It appears that there are some Overtown residents that are not thrilled with the newly announced Miami MLS team. Announced on Monday of this past week, Miami will return to MLS under the ownership of David Beckham and a few others. During the group’s search for a stadium site, land in the Overtown neighborhood was selected.

Free Kicks

  • Current Orlando Pride Development Academy player Taylor Fox received a call-up for the U-16 USWNT. Fox is one of three goalkeepers called into camp which is taking place in Bradenton this weekend. Congrats to Taylor and here’s to hoping more Orlando Pride Development Academy players get called up in the future.
  • Diego Maradona, the infamous Argentinian footballer, was reportedly refused entry into the United States. Maradona was attempting to acquire a visa but, according to his lawyer, his request was denied because of his comments toward President Trump and the administration. He was attempting to go to Miami for a civil court case. 
  • Rubio Rubin signed with Club Tijuana. Rubin had a very nice camp and made a solid impact in the USMNT match against Bosnia on Jan. 28. The striker was being coveted by a few unnamed MLS teams but the salary was lower then expected with Club Tijuana swooping in at the last minute and grabbing him. He should have a good impact for the Liga MX side in their upcoming season. 

  • A special event will be held for a group of fans down at Lions Pride on Feb. 9. There will be players and coaches as well as the media team who will be hosting a Q&A. The club will also discuss the idea of “Face of a City.” Be sure to sign up!

As I always do, I like to end on a positive note and this week I have been very impressed with the way the team has bonded over this entire week. Players seem to be getting closer with each other, learning about each other, and even having a bit of fun at the others’ expense. My favorite thus far is #RichieCam. If you haven’t checked it out you need to! One relationship that appears to really be growing is the one between Yoshimar Yotún and Pierre Da Silva. Enjoy this clip of the two of them dancing in the halls of their hotel.

Have a great Saturday and an awesome weekend!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 5/7/24

Barbra Banda up for NWSL Goal of the Week, Americans in midweek action, Champions League preview, and more.

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2 hours ago

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May 7, 2024

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Jeremy Reper

Happy Tuesday, everyone. It was a mixed bag for Orlando’s teams over the weekend, as Orlando City B drew 1-1 with Chattanooga FC and lost the subsequent shootout, Orlando City lost 1-0 to FC Cincinnati, and the Orlando Pride won 1-0 over Racing Louisville. As usual, we have a lot to talk through this morning, so let’s dig into the links.

Barbra Banda Up for Goal of the Week

Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda has been nominated for the NWSL Goal of the Week for her strike in the 77th minute against the North Carolina Courage last Wednesday. Banda controlled the ball off a throw-in, turned, and drove across the box before slotting a low shot past Casey Murphy for the Pride’s fourth and final goal of the game. She scored twice in that game and scored again in Sunday’s win over Racing Louisville. Banda now has four goals in four games, and shows no sign of slowing down. Make sure you go vote for her to win this week’s award!

Americans in Midweek Action

As usual, there are a number of Americans playing games this week, so make sure you mark down any that you want to tune in for. Wednesday has Brandon Vazquez and Monterrey traveling to El Volcan to take on Tigres in the quarterfinals of the Clausura. Moving to Friday, Tanner Tessmann, Gianluca Busio and Venezia have a chance to gain promotion to Serie A if they beat Spezia and Como loses. On the other side of things, former Lion Nicholas Gioacchini and Como play Cosenza, and will secure automatic promotion as long as they don’t have a worse result than Venezia.

UEFA Champions League Preview

The UEFA Champions League continues this week with the second legs of the two semifinal matchups. In this afternoon’s game, Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique has said that even Kylian Mbappe will have to work hard defensively if his team is going to progress to the final. Borussia Dortmund leads that tie 1-0, and will need to rely on a defense that has kept five clean sheets in this year’s tournament. However, the German club has a concerning record away from home, where it has lost nine of its last 11 games. In tomorrow’s game between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, this season’s La Liga winner will hope its finishing prowess continues from the first leg, when it turned two chances into two goals.

European Transfer Rumor Roundup

With European seasons drawing to a close, the transfer rumor mill is starting to heat up, which means there are several items worth discussing today. First, Manchester United will reportedly face competition to sign Crystal Palace star Michael Olise. Chelsea and PSG are said to also be interested in signing the Frenchman, who was instrumental in his side’s 4-0 drubbing of the Red Devils yesterday. Staying in the Premier League, Virgil van Dijk has said he intends to be part of the transition following Jurgen Klopp’s departure from Liverpool, confirming that he does not intend to leave in the summer. Elsewhere, Bayern Munich is said to have agreed to personal terms with AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez. David Moyes has confirmed he will leave West Ham at the end of the season, with reports suggesting that the Hammers have reached an agreement with Julen Lopetegui to be the team’s new manager.

Free Kicks

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

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 5/6/24

Lions lose at home, Orlando Pride win, OCB draws Chattanooga FC, and more.

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1 day ago

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May 6, 2024

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Image courtesy of Orlando Pride / Mark Thor

Hello, Mane Landers. I hope all is well with you down in Florida. It was another mixed weekend for our teams as the Lions lost, the Pride won, and OCB drew. As for me, I’ve been busy managing the broadcast operations for the NISA league’s matches this weekend and also got a chance to cover high school soccer, softball, and badminton. There is plenty to cover today, so let’s get to the links.

Lions Lose at Home to FC Cincinnati

Orlando City lost at home for the second straight weekend with a 1-0 defeat to FC Cincinnati at Inter&Co Stadium on Saturday. Luciano Acosta scored the lone goal for Cincinnati just seconds into the match. Orlando City went down to 10 men when defender Rodrigo Schlegel received a red card in the first half. The Lions had some chances to get back in this one, including a free kick opportunity in the second half when Wilder Cartagena scored what would have been the equalizer, but Facundo Torres was ruled offside, and the goal was waved off. Cincinnati also dropped to 10 men late in the second half as defender Bret Halsey received his second yellow for a foul on Ivan Angulo and knocked the ball out to waste time. Still, FC Cincinnati found a way to hang on for the victory, securing its third win in a row. Orlando City will look to rebound on Saturday as it takes on the Philadelphia Union at Suburu Park.  

Orlando Pride Win at Home Against Racing Louisville FC

The Orlando Pride defeated Racing Louisville FC on Sunday, 1-0, at Inter&Co Stadium, winning their fifth straight game. Barbra Banda scored the lone goal of the match and now has four goals for the Pride this season. The Pride remain undefeated in league play, keeping their unbeaten streak alive at eight matches (5-0-3). Orlando also moved up to first in the NWSL table with 18 points. The Pride will be back home on Saturday to face Bay FC. 

OCB Draws Chattanooga FC

Orlando City B drew 1-1 on the road against Chattanooga FC on Saturday. The Young Lions trailed early in the first half as Mehdi Ouamri put Chattanooga FC in front 1-0. Later in the first half, OCB got an equalizer, with forward Shak Mohammed finding the back of the net to score his second goal of the season. The match went to penalties after 90 minutes of action, where Chattanooga FC won the extra point with a 5-4 win over OCB. Despite not getting the extra point in penalties, the Young Lions still keep their road unbeaten streak alive at five. OCB will have a quick turnaround with its next match at Osceola County Stadium on Wednesday against New York Red Bulls II.

European Soccer Roundup

Real Madrid clinched the La Liga title on Saturday, defeating Cadiz 3-0, while their rivals Barcelona dropped points in a 4-2 loss to Girona over the weekend. Madrid has now won La Liga for the 36th time and still has a shot of adding another trophy if it gets past Bayern Munich in the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday to reach the final next month. Elsewhere, we had plenty of drama in England. Let’s start in the EFL Championship, where Ipswich Town joined Leicester City, getting promoted to the Premier League after a 2-0 victory against Huddersfield Town. Leeds United, Southhampton, West Brom, and Norwich City will go to the playoffs to determine the third club to secure promotion. Arsenal won 3-0 over Bournemouth, while Manchester City cruised to a 5-1 win over Wolves to keep the EPL title race tight. Arsenal is in first with 83 points, with two matches remaining, while Manchester City is just behind in second with 82 points and three matches left to play.

Free Kicks

  • Orlando Pride midfielder Ally Lemos gave insight on her first NWSL start for the Pride after their match against Racing Louisville FC on Sunday.
  • PSV Eindhoven clinched the Eredivisie title on Sunday with a 4-2 win over Sparta Rotterdam. American Malik Tillman played for 90 minutes, while Ricardo Pepi came off the bench and added an assist. 
  • USMNT midfielder Christian Pulisic put on a solid performance and contributed an assist for AC Milan in a 3-3 draw against Genoa on Saturday.
  • USWNT forward Catarina Macario came off the bench for Chelsea in the second half and made WSL history by adding two assists in 10 minutes in an 8-0 win over Bristol City.

That will do it for me today, Mane Landers. Enjoy your Monday and I’ll see you next time.

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Lion Links: 5/3/24

MLS roster profiles revealed, Marta’s best moments, Kelley O’Hara announces her retirement, and more.

Published

4 days ago

on

May 3, 2024

By

Image courtesy of Orlando Pride

Happy Friday! We’ve reached the homestretch of the week and I couldn’t be happier. A busy weekend awaits me, but I’m hoping for some quiet, nice moments to offset some of the hustle and bustle. It’s also another weekend packed with Orlando soccer to enjoy, so make sure to plan your next couple of days accordingly. But for now, let’s get to the links!

MLS Unveils Club Roster Details

There’s a little more transparency in Major League Soccer after the league released helpful snapshots of each club that detail the composition of each roster. From Designated Players and MLS U22 Initiative Players to international roster slots and contract lengths, the graphics are easy to comprehend and give a nice look behind the curtain on each team. Using this, we can see that Orlando City midfielder Cesar Araujo no longer takes up a U22 Initiative slot and that the team also has an open international roster slot. It should be a fairly nice reference guide for fans moving forward, as well as a way to check out how other MLS teams are building their rosters.

Emily Sams Earns Recognition as Potential USWNT Player

Orlando Pride defender Emily Sams was mentioned as one of the top 20 eligible Americans who have yet to make an appearance with the United States Women’s National Team according to Pro Soccer Wire. The shout out is well deserved, as Sams has helped anchor a Pride defense that’s only given up seven goals this season. Only time will tell if Sams will earn a call-up once Emma Hayes is at the helm of the USWNT, but it does feel inevitable given how she’s been playing. Other notable players on the list include Ajax’s Lily Yohannes, Washington Spirit rookie Croix Bethune, and Angel City FC defender Sarah Gorden.

Marta’s Top Moments

All For XI compiled some of the best moments from Marta’s career into a tidy top five. Considering how prolific she has been for Brazil over the years, it was nice to see a pair of goals from her time with the Pride receive some recognition. Both of those moments were from 2018, with her free kick to equalize against the Seattle Reign placing fifth and her solo effort to stun the Spirit taking third. It’s fitting though that the top moment on the list showcases the impact she’s had off the field, as it’s Marta’s emotional speech after Brazil’s exit in the 2019 World Cup.

Kelley O’Hara Will Retire After 2024 Season

USWNT defender Kelley O’Hara announced that she will retire from professional soccer following the 2024 season. Over the course of her international career, she’s played in four World Cups, three Olympic Games, and was named to the FIFA FIFPro World XI in 2019. O’Hara has played in every NWSL season since the league’s inception, winning the title with the Spirit in 2021 and again with NJ/NY Gotham FC last year. She joined Gotham as the first free agent signing in NWSL history and she is set to close out her illustrious career there.

Free Kicks

  • Curve Fragrances was named the official fragrance partner of Orlando City. As part of the partnership, there will be giveaways and product sampling at select games this season.
  • Wrexham’s women’s squad for The Soccer Tournament this summer will include a trio of former Pride players, with Bridget Callahan, Danica Evans, and Nickolette Driesse all taking part. I can’t wait to see if Callahan will make SkoRed a rallying cry at the tournament.
  • Orlando City won’t have to contend with FC Cincinnati forward Aaron Boupendza tomorrow, as he will miss the next six to eight weeks due to a broken jaw suffered in an off-field incident.
  • The Europa League semifinals are underway and Bayer Leverkusen extended its unbeaten run to 47 games after a 2-0 road win against Roma. In the other matchup, Atalanta and Marseille drew 1-1 in France.
  • American midfielder Johnny Cardoso hasn’t been with Real Betis for long, but he’s doing well enough that Atletico Madrid, Barcelona, and Borussia Dortmund are among the clubs reportedly interested in signing the 22-year-old.
  • Lucas Hernandez suffered an ACL injury in Paris Saint-Germain’s loss to Borussia Dortmund and will miss out on this summer’s Euros with France.
  • Reims and Will Still have mutually agreed to part ways, with the coach leaving now despite just having three games left in the Ligue 1 season. It will be interesting to see where the 31-year-old coaches next, as he had a notable 19-game unbeaten stretch with Reims last season.
  • Here’s a detailed dive into the obstacles Everton has faced in recent years, as well as how the club has avoided relegation amid another difficult season.

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

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