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Orlando City vs. Colorado Rapids: Final Score 2-1 as Set Piece Dooms Lions in the 90th

At least Nani’s suspension is over. So there’s that.

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6 years ago

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Image courtesy of Orlando City SC

A late corner kick goal spoiled Orlando City’s trip west, allowing the Colorado Rapids to nip the Lions 2-1 at the death at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The Lions (0-1-1, 1 point) were moments from a solid road point but fell to the Rapids (2-0-0, 6 points) for the first time in the series history. Orlando drops to 4-1-1 in the all-time series and 1-1-1 in Colorado.

Younes Namli and Drew Moor scored second-half goals for Colorado, with the latter coming in the 90th minute — just eight minutes after substitute Chris Mueller had knotted the game. Orlando remains winless under Oscar Pareja, but started the game without any of its three Designated Players.

Just a week after getting shut out at home, the Lions took the pitch with eight defensive-minded players, as Oscar Pareja deployed a back line of Rodrigo Schlegel, Robin Jansson, and Antonio Carlos. Kyle Smith and Joao Moutinho book-ended a midfield trio of Sebas Mendez, Junior Urso, and Andres Perea. Tesho Akindele and Benji Michel started up top and Pedro Gallese was in goal. This operated as a 3-5-2. Ruan was held out of the starting lineup after dealing with an illness and Mauricio Pereyra was deemed not 90-minute fit with a minor quad knock.

The teams spent the early going feeling each other out a bit, but creating very little. Orlando pressed a bit early and that kept the Rapids from settling into the match until about 20 or so minutes in.

The first big opportunity for the Lions came in the 19th minute when a cross from Moutinho skipped through the area and Smith smashed a shot off the bounce that forced a good save from Clint Irwin.

Seven minutes later, Mendez freed himself up to send a rocket shot from outside the area but it fizzed about a foot wide of the right post.

Colorado came back with its first great look in the 29th minute as Keegan Rosenberry had time and space outside the area and sent a cannon shot on goal that Gallese parried away. In the 35th minute, Gallese made a strong save to deny Andre Shinyashiki, who shook Smith and fired a rocket. Sam Vines sent the rebound over the bar.

A minute later, Moutinho got the ball on the left and sent a curling shot with his weaker right foot just inches wide of the far post.

Perea and Urso sent shots from distance straight at Irwin’s chest and the half came to an end with no goals on the board.

The Rapids had an advantage in shots (9-7), with each team getting three on target. Colorado held 56% of the first-half possession and an edge in passing accuracy (88%-81%).

The ‘Pids started firing the ball in behind the wingbacks to start the second half and it nearly paid off in the 51st minute, as Smith got caught forward and Shinyashiki fired just wide.

Orlando got a free kick in the 55th minute as Moor took down Akindele just outside the area. It perhaps should have been Moor’s second yellow and had Tesho taken a better first touch on Moutinho’s long ball, it might have drawn a straight red. Mendez sent the free kick off the head of Lalas Abubakar and out for a corner.

Younes Namli broke the deadlock in the 64th minute, cutting around Perea and then firing just inside the right post to make it 1-0. It ended Orlando’s streak of 154 minutes without conceding. It appeared Urso and Mendez could have challenged the Colorado DP, but they seemed to lack the energy — perhaps a product of running at altitude for over an hour — and Namli fired before the center backs could converge.

Mueller equalized in the 82nd minute to finish a great team play by Orlando City. Urso found Perea on the right side and he slipped a ball in to Mueller, who made a great run off the center back’s shoulder. Cash turned and fired a shot through Irwin and into the net to make it 1-1.

Orlando seemed more likely to get a second goal than Colorado until the waning moments, when Mendez conceded a corner. Schlegel was fighting through a cramp and had moved forward due to his more limited mobility, leaving the Lions having to cover with a midfielder. Colorado made a substitution prior to the corner and Orlando looked confused on the delivery, with Carlos late to identify Moor as his man and getting beat to the jump. That left Moor with a free header to score the winner.

Orlando wasn’t able to muster much in the six minutes of stoppage time aside from one free kick that was wasted when second-half sub Pereyra pulled up and forced the team to reset. Schlegel looped back and ended up bundling over his man, drawing the whistle and a free kick for the Rapids, ending the final threat.

The Lions finished with a 14-12 advantage in shots, with each team getting five on target. Colorado held 54.8% of the possession and an 86%-80% edge in passing accuracy.

Overall, Pareja’s game plan was mostly solid, as Kei Kamara was held to just one fairly weak shot attempt. Usually one to have Orlando’s number, the striker was held in check on this night. Still, the Lions lacked much bite with their own forwards as well, as the defensive-minded lineup behind Akindele and Michel didn’t provide them many opportunities. Mueller’s movement and energy against tired legs late in the game gave Orlando its only threatening movement from the forwards all night.

The Lions will look to get into the win column next Saturday when the Chicago Fire visit Exploria Stadium at 7:30 p.m.

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 8/27/26

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

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57 minutes ago

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August 27, 2026

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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!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 8/26/26

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

Published

1 day ago

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August 26, 2026

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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!

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Lion Links

Lion Links: 8/25/26

Antoine Griezmann earns MLS Player of the Matchday, Pride players up for weekly honors, lessons from MLS matchday 22, and more.

Published

2 days ago

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August 25, 2026

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Image of Antoine Griezmann playing the ball.
Image courtesy of Orlando City SC / Jeremy Reper

Good morning, everyone. It was an improved, but not perfect weekend for Orlando’s soccer teams, as the three sides combined to take six of the nine points on offer. The midweek games have finally ceased for the time being, but Orlando City and the Orlando Pride will both be back in action on Saturday, while Orlando City B will try to get things back on track on Sunday. We’ve got a whole host of things to cover this morning, so let’s get into the links. But before we do, we want to give a big shout out and thank you to Barry, our latest TAM-level subscriber at The Mane Land’s subscription service at Buy Me a Coffee. If you’d like to check out what’s on offer to see if it’s for you, click here (you can also just make a donation if you want to support us and subscribing isn’t for you).

Antoine Griezmann Named MLS Player of the Matchday

Designated Player Antoine Griezmann played a starring role in Orlando City’s win over Real Salt Lake, as the Frenchman bagged a second-half brace to complete the Lions’ comeback and secure a vital three points. He’s been rewarded for his efforts with not just a starting spot in the MLS Team of the Matchday, but with his first MLS Player of the Matchday nod as well. Griezmann’s double makes it three goals and two assists in six league games since joining the team following the World Cup break, and while the team’s form hasn’t been flawless, it certainly looks a lot better with him in the fold. Here’s hoping his good form continues!

Pride Players Up for Weekly Honors

Sticking with the topic of weekly awards, Barbra Banda has been nominated for the NWSL Assist of the Week. The striker is most known for her prolific goal scoring, but she turned provider in the Orlando Pride’s 1-0 win over the Washington Spirit. Banda drove at the defense in the opening moments of the game before playing a beautiful ball across the face of the box, where it found an onrushing Haley McCutcheon, who put her effort into the back of the net. It was a great all-around effort from Banda, as she made a tackle and won the ball on the halfway line before leading the break up the field and playing the key pass.

Speaking of McCutcheon, the Pride’s goal scorer has been nominated for the NWSL Player of the Week. McCutcheon took her goal well, and had a chance to tack on a late insurance goal, but her effort was saved by Spirit goalkeeper Sandy MacIver. Make sure you go vote for both players to win their respective awards!

Lessons from MLS Matchday 22

Matchday 22 is in the books for Major League Soccer, and there were plenty of things to be gleaned from the weekend’s action. Griezmann did a little bit of everything for Orlando City once again, but he wasn’t the only MLS newcomer that made a difference. Josh Sargent scored his first goal for Toronto FC since May as he helped the Reds knock off Inter Miami on the road, and Jack Harrison marked his first game against former team New York City FC with a gorgeous secondary assist on the game’s opening goal. He’s got five assists in four games since joining during the summer window and so far looks like a Designated Player spot smartly used by the New England Revolution.

Americans in Midweek Action

There are a number of Americans who will be playing matches during the working week, so make sure you get everything marked down on your calendars. Sebastian Berhalter, Max Arfsten, and Aidan Morris get things going later today when their Middlesborough side travels to face Doncaster in the Carabao Cup. Things continue on Wednesday when Tanner Tesssmann and Lyon play Fenerbahce in the second leg of a UEFA Champions League qualifying tie, with the matchup finely balanced at 1-1 after the first leg. Thursday will see Folarin Balogun and Monaco try to hold onto a 3-2 lead over Gornik Zabrze in the second leg of UEFA Conference League qualifying, before Yunus Musah (and possibly Christian Pulisic, if he’s recovered from injury) and AC Milan face Gianluca Busio and Venezia in Serie A play.

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

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