Connect with us

Lion Links

Lion Links: 10/21/18

Published

8 years ago

on

Happy Sunday, Mane Landers. Chances are you’re here to bide your time while you await Orlando’s clash with the Columbus Crew, so I’ll do my best to keep your spirits high while you wait. Today’s match should be an entertaining affair, with Justin Meram making a potential eventful return to Orlando City Stadium. I would imagine that it’ll be an emotional one for him…and for the supporters in attendance. Just remember to keep it classy; that’s how you Mane Landers do it.

That said, I’ll do what I can to keep today’s serving of Links classy for you! Let’s dive right in.

Orlando City SC’s Home Finale

There’s bound to be some drama. With the Lions hosting the Crew for their last home match of the 2018 campaign, Meram, if present, will likely be front and center, but that’s not what Head Coach James O’Connor is focused on. He’s acknowledged the event, but certainly will have other things to work on. Namely: winning.

“It’s the same as any other player who comes back,” O’Connor said. “You shake his hand, you wish him all the best and it’ll have no bearing on what we’re trying to do. I think, for us, we’ve been very intentional about trying to make sure that whoever it is that comes here, we focus on what we need to do.”

Clearly, O’Connor doesn’t want the return of Meram to overshadow what’s really at stake for his side — ensuring that his team executes his game plan and ends the home finale with three points in hand. That’s been a difficult thing to do for the Lions since the appointment of O’Connor, and to be frank, there’s no guarantee that Meram will make the trip. Even Orlando’s star players, like Yoshimar Yotún, likely still in contact with their former teammate, have no inkling of whether or not Meram will travel with the Crew.

“If he does come, it’ll be nice,” Yotún said. “It’ll be nice to play against him. They’re a good club that includes an ex-teammate from Orlando City. It’s always good to play against ex-teammates.”

Regardless, O’Connor is well aware of the opposition’s strong season, and need for a positive result to potentially break into the MLS Playoff picture. He anticipates a challenging affair.

“Columbus, obviously, a very experienced team and having a very strong year, as well,” O’Connor said. “So, it’ll be a tough game for us.”

It should be a good one, Mane Landers. So make sure you’re tuned in!

Meram Reflects on his Orlando Tenure, Gives Supporters Credit

Speaking of the controversial former Lion, regardless of whether we see him today or not, he’s certainly reflected upon his time in Orlando. He’s happier now that he’s with the Crew again, and finally provided some insight into the trials and tribulations that he experienced as a Lion.

“Some negative things that happened when I was there made me mentally stronger, so that was a positive,” he said. “[Learning] how to handle situations better – that was positive. I wasn’t perfect; I can be a man about it. I could have done things a little better.”

Meram goes on to express regret over his then-controversial goal celebration of closing his eyes and putting his fingers in his ears; alluding that he’s blocking out the criticism of the supporters. He does, however, give the Lions supporters some credit.

“The fans kind of blow things up, but they’re passionate, and I respect their passion,” he said. “To have a fan base when results aren’t going well and they’re still out there every game, I give them credit…and I’m thankful for a lot of them who were supporting me even when I was in a slump.”

Unfortunately, that’s not where the interview ended. He also took a swipe at his former side, implying that while there was a high level of quality on the pitch, there was a lack of a strong culture that cultivates results.

“There’s a lot of quality in that locker room, and they spent a lot of money to bring in a lot of quality,” he said. “But just putting quality on the field isn’t going to win you games. You have to have a collectiveness, a family mindset. I think that might have been lacking a bit.”

That said, Meram also stated that he doesn’t feel that there’s any beef between he and the club. My opinion? I find that hard to believe. His response when asked if he would celebrate if he scored against his former side: “We’ll see when the time comes, I guess.” Prepare for fireworks, folks.

The Journey: Ashlyn Harris

We all know and love Pride goalkeeping stalwart Ashlyn Harris, but perhaps we all didn’t know of her humble beginnings. Harris began her meteoric rise from Satellite High School here in Florida, and was tabbed as a future goalkeeping prospect at the tender age of 16. In a series from U.S. Soccer, Harris is the feature of a The Journey, detailing the lives, both on and off the field, of USWNT stars as they work towards potential 2019 World Cup glory. Check it out, she’s got quite the story…and you’d never guess who inspired her the most during her formative years.

FC Cincinnati Looks to Enter MLS as Champions X2

Similar to Orlando City SC and its entrance into MLS play, FC Cincinnati is looking to take down the USL Cup before becoming an official MLS club in 2019. The club has already won the regular-season title, and will now attempt to add one more championship notch to its proverbial belt before leaving the league. The Ohio club needed penalties last night to advance. The Lions, who won the USL in 2011 and 2013 while also taking down the Commissioner's Cup in 2014, reveled in glory before entering MLS play to much fanfare. Unfortunately, as we all know, that success has yet to translate to the next level and the Lions have yet to break into the MLS playoffs.

Free Kicks

  • Friendly reminder: be sure to stick around after today’s match to cheer on the Orlando City Special Olympic squad!

  • Ready to catch a glimpse of the Orlando SeaWolves against the Brazil National Minifootball team…with a bonus match? Check this out.

  • Yesterday brought good news for USMNT and Schalke starlet Weston McKennie, as he was back in action as the German side hosted Werder Bremen.

  • Check out a sneak peak of USMNT legend Paul Caligiuri’s (and others’) induction into the National Soccer Hall of Fame, courtesy of Major League Soccer!

  • Don Garber, another Hall of Famer, has done a lot for MLS over the years. And I mean a lot.
  • Wayne Rooney has adjusted quite well to D.C. United and MLS play, as he tells the famed Men in Blazers.
  • The fears have been confirmed…walking icon Lionel Messi broke a bone in his right arm after a collision during the opening stages of yesterday’s match against Sevilla, and will miss three weeks, keeping the Barcelona talisman out of the famed El Clásico against Real Madrid next weekend. That’ll be good news for Madrid, which just recently ended a 465 minute goalless drought courtesy of a strike from (my personal favorite player of all time) Marcelo.

That’s all I’ve got for you today, Mane Landers. Enjoy the 3 p.m. kickoff against the Crew! Hopefully the Lions bring the heat…because lord knows the supporters deserve it for braving this Florida weather to see them play. It’d be one hell of a showing to see the Lions down a Meram-led crew, but it could happen, so do your best to remain positive and show out for your boys in purple.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Lion Links

Lion Links: 8/28/26

Orlando City adds left back, Lions reportedly pursued John Tolkin, Orlando Pride goalkeeper Cara Martin signs new contract, and more.

Published

23 hours ago

on

August 28, 2026

By

Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Happy Friday, Mane Landers! I don’t know about you, but it’s been a pretty dismal week for me, and I’m ready to bid it farewell as we get ready for the weekend. I don’t have too many plans lined up, but that’s nice in its own way for some rest and relaxation here and there. Let’s get to the links!

Orlando City Adds Brazilian Left Back on Loan

Brazilian left back Vinicius Nogueira is joining Orlando City on loan from PFC Ludogorets in Bulgaria. The loan will last through the 2027 MLS Sprint Season and includes an option to buy. Left back has been a position of concern for the Lions throughout the year, with Homegrown Player Zakaria Taifi filling in as of late. Hopefully Nogueira can acclimate quickly and make an impact as the Lions hunt for a playoff spot and silverware in the U.S. Open Cup.

Lions Reportedly Pursued U.S. International Fullback John Tolkin

According to Tom Bogert, Orlando City reportedly reached a deal with Holstein Kiel to sign American left back John Tolkin, but he opted to stay in Germany instead. A wrinkle to the deal though was that St. Louis City held Tolkin’s discovery rights, and so Orlando was set to trade Tahir Reid-Brown to St. Louis for those rights. Despite the deal for Tolkin falling through, Orlando didn’t block that move for Reid-Brown.

As for other Orlando City transfers that don’t seem to be happening, Marco Pasalic’s reported move to Europe this summer seems to be dead in the water. You’ll need to get past The Athletic‘s paywall for the full details, but after the Lions rejected Hull City’s loan offer, the English side reportedly didn’t make an offer for a permanent transfer, which Orlando would prefer over a loan. Other teams are also said to be interested in a loan deal but Bogert writes that if the Croatian is to leave Orlando, OCSC would like it to be a permanent transfer.

Pride Sign Goalkeeper Cara Martin to New Contract

Orlando Pride goalkeeper Cara Martin has signed a new contract with the club through the 2028 season with a mutual option for 2029. The 22-year-old signed with the Pride in January after four years at Georgetown. It’s an interesting decision by the club, considering Cosette Morche had a solid performance shutting out the Washington Spirit and Kat Asman just started for the Denver Summit while on loan.

Lions Hit the Road After Homestand

After six straight games at home, Orlando City is on the road this weekend for its match against Minnesota United. It’s been a grueling month for the Lions, which were spared from having to play yet another midweek match by not qualifying for the Leagues Cup quarterfinals. The Lions have been able to use this week to recover and improve, and interim head coach Martin Perelman praised the club’s staff for helping the team through this stretch.

“Fortunately, here we have a really good mental coach, which is Andrea (Gonzalez),” he said. “She does a really good job and helps us a lot in that area. Here in Orlando, I am proud because we have a really good interdisciplinary staff, and that mental part is well protected and well managed by her.”

UEFA Champions League Draw Unveiled

The draw for this year’s UEFA Champions League’s league phase is complete and there are some exciting matchups to look forward to. Paris Saint-Germain’s quest for three straight titles will feature home games against Barcelona and Roma along with away trips to England to play Manchester City and Aston Villa. Jose Mourinho will see some familiar faces during Real Madrid’s campaign, which includes games against Inter Milan, Roma, and Arsenal. It should be a fun tournament between the best teams in Europe and it will be interesting to see which underdogs make a splash this year.

Free Kicks

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

Continue Reading

Lion Links

Lion Links: 8/27/26

Orlando City prepares for Minnesota United, Dylan Judelson loaned to Genoa CFC, Americans abroad roundup, and more.

Published

2 days ago

on

August 27, 2026

By

Image of Tiago and Zakaria Taifi celebrating Tiago's first MLS goal vs. the Red Bulls.
Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

How’s it going, Mane Landers? I’ve been having a bit of a hectic week, but the rest of it should be fairly smooth sailing as we get ready for another weekend of Orlando soccer. Apart from the errands and work, I’ve been working on perfecting a buffalo chicken dip as summer nears its end. Let’s get to the links!

Orlando City Prepares for Minnesota United

The Lions are back in action on Saturday with a road match against Minnesota United to close out what has been a busy month for the team. This will be Orlando’s eighth match in August, but the Lions have at least been able to get some rest this week after winning 2-1 at home against Real Salt Lake on Saturday. Minnesota is also entering this match after a win, beating the San Jose Earthquakes 5-1 thanks to four goals in the second half. Orlando City defender Zakaria Taifi spoke on Orlando’s preparations for this away trip after a long string of games at home.

Dylan Judelson Loaned to Genoa CFC

Orlando City B midfielder Dylan Judelson was loaned to Genoa CFC in Italy’s Serie A through June of 2027. The loan includes an option to buy, with Orlando receiving undisclosed financial compensation and retaining a sell-on fee if Genoa exercises that option. Judelson helped the academy’s U-18 team win the Generation Adidas Cup in 2025 and participated in the MLS NEXT All-Star Game as well. The Canadian has also played internationally at the youth level, including at the Concacaf U-20 Championship this summer. Best of luck in Italy, Dylan!

Keeping Up With the Americans Abroad

American defender Naomi Girma scored in Chelsea’s 5-2 victory over Real Sociedad in Women’s Champions League qualifying. She captained the squad and Alyssa Thompson started for Chelsea as well. In men’s soccer, the EFL Cup third-round matchups were unveiled and Americans may clash when Chris Richards and Crystal Palace play against Middlesbrough, which has a trio of Yanks in Aidan Morris, Sebastian Berhalter, and Max Arfsten. Speaking of Middlesbrough, it’s reportedly close to signing American midfielder Rokas Pukstas from Hajduk Split as well. The club might have to start calling it soccer if this keeps up.

UEFA’s Boycott Reportedly Set to End

UEFA’s members are meeting today and are reportedly expected to end the confederation’s boycott of FIFA competitions. The possibility of a boycott has loomed over the sport due to FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell stakes of the World Cup to private investors, but UEFA has reportedly received assurances that the failed scheme won’t be revived. This news comes at an important time as six UEFA nations are set to take part in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, which kicks off in Poland on Sept. 5.

Free Kicks

  • Enjoy this crazy goal courtesy of Ivan Angulo’s left foot in Orlando City’s training. I wouldn’t be surprised if it was inspired by Marco Pasalic constantly making that move.

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

Continue Reading

Lion Links

Lion Links: 8/26/26

Orlando City climbs the ranks, Orlando Pride news and notes, USMNT player stock watch, and more.

Published

3 days ago

on

August 26, 2026

By

Image of Justin Ellis dribbling the ball with Tiago to his left and Nashville's Hany Mukhtar defending to his right.
Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Mark Thor

Welcome to Wednesday, Mane Landers. Yesterday, we lost a great human being. Dolly Parton passed away at the age of 80, and even though I’m not a country music fan I am still a fan of Dolly. She was a humanitarian who brought joy to many through her music, her philanthropy, and her genuine good nature. The world is a darker place without her glittering rhinestones and she will be missed by many.

I also feel that Dolly would want all of us to find our joy in life, and for me, that often involves soccer, and in particular, Orlando City and the Orlando Pride. So in Dolly’s honor, let’s get to the links.

Orlando City Climbs

Orlando City has inched above the playoff line thanks to a 2-1 victory over Real Salt Lake. The Lions have also climbed four spots to 18th in MLSsoccer.com’s MLS power rankings. Given how the season started, this is all good news. Next up for Orlando City is a trip to Minnesota. I always find it fascinating to see how the opposition looks at a matchup, and you can also check out what we expect to see on Saturday on the latest episode of The Mane Land PawedCast.

Orlando Pride News and Notes

Barbra Banda has yet to score a goal since returning from WAFCON, though she provided the assist to Haley McCutcheon in the Orlando Pride’s 1-0 victory over the Washington Spirit. As such, Ashley Sanchez has taken the lead in the Golden Boot race. While there were plenty of interesting facts from NWSL Week 18, an important one for Pride fans is that Cosette Morché became the first keeper in Pride history to record a shutout in her debut. Next up for the Pride is a home match against the Utah Royals.

MLS Roundup

People in Europe are shocked by Breel Embolo’s move to Atlanta United. I assume it’s because he’s under 30 years old. The Seattle Sounders acquired striker Dejan Joveljić from Sporting Kansas City for $6 million. He will be a Designated Player. LA Galaxy goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski has been fined by the MLS Disciplinary Committee for failing to leave the field in a timely manner. Here is the video of the incident.

USMNT Player Stock Rising/Falling

With midweek matches looming, let’s look back at how USMNT players — including Orlando City’s Justin Ellis — did both abroad and here in the States. Some players, like Zavier Gozo and Matt Freese, saw their stock rise, while others, like Tyler Adams, did not. Stu Holden shared who he thinks should be the faces of the USMNT going forward, and it’s hard for me to disagree with his assessment.

Free Kicks

  • Austin FC named Khaled El-Ahmad the club’s new chief soccer officer & sporting director. He recently held a similar position with Minnesota United.
  • Finally, proof that Mason Stadjuhar is Forever a Lion. Well done, StadjuHeart. You make us proud.

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

Continue Reading

Trending