We look back at the key players and moments in the match, check back on our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

Our mailbagbox was loaded up with questions about Ricardo Moriera, Orlando City's roster needs, a Freaky Friday-type life swap situation, and much more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we touched on OCB's 3-1 loss at Chattanooga FC and looked ahead to the Young Lions' matchup Sunday against Carolina Core.

Finally, we looked ahead to a pair of upcoming Orlando City games this week. The Lions will play USL League One opponent FC Naples on the road Wednesday to start their 2026 U.S. Open Cup run. We're not going to pretend to know a lot about the club, but it is currently first in the table and it's both a winnable and loseable game. The second match takes place Saturday at home, when the Houston Dynamo visit. We look back at the series history, check out how the two sides measure up in the league, discuss our key matchups for the game, and make our predictions for the final score.

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Here’s how No. 527 went down:

0:15 – Robin Jansson's return was noticeable and so was his departure from the match on Sunday in Columbus.

24:45 – Our mailbagbox is chock full this week. We're up to the challenge.

56:08 – OCB happenings, the Lions head south to take on FC Naples in U.S. Open Cup play, and the Houston Dynamo visit on Saturday.

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Our mailbagbox offered no respite from this series of lopsided losses, but our listeners did ask about nicknames and what (if any) impact Antoine Griezmann could have made on the season to date had he arrived before opening day. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we briefly touched on the tale of the tape for OCB's upcoming match at Chattanooga. The two sides seem evenly matched heading into their head-to-head matchup.

Finally, we looked ahead to Sunday's Orlando City match at Columbus. We gave the series history between the Lions and Crew, looked at the key matchups, and did our best to predict the final score. We remain pessimistic and probably will do so until Orlando City shows some signs of life.

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Here’s how No. 526 went down:

0:15 – LAFC devoured Orlando City like it was an all-you-can-eat buffet.

27:59 – Our mailbagbox is no comfort from another stinging loss, but it is fun.

38:34 – The Crew are coming off their first win of 2026 and have to be eager to get at Orlando's leaky defense.

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Portugal on Tuesday night provides another opportunity for growth, but time is running out before the games count on the biggest stage. Is the U.S. ready?

Our mailbagbox had questions about lineup changes, hairstyles, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we look ahead to Orlando City's match this weekend at LAFC. As good as Inter Miami, New York City FC, and Nashville have been this year, Saturday's hosts have been either as good or better. That doesn't bode well for a struggling Orlando City side that desperately needs to start scoring goals and keeping them out of its own net. We look back at the series history, compare the two clubs, and offer up our key matchups and score predictions. We are not optimistic about this one, folks.

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Here’s how No. 525 went down:

0:15 – The USMNT played a strong opening 40 minutes and then...well oddly enough the game ended that way and the final 50 were never even played! That's how we're choosing to remember it, anyway.

31:43 – Our mailbagbox prevents us from having to preview the LAFC match, but not for long.

52:07 – LAFC hasn't conceded or lost yet. Orlando has done both of those things far more often than any of us would like.

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No mailbagbox. No other discussion. Just 20+ minutes of us discussing a historic signing for the club.

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We chose to go the sandwich route and stuck the bad news about the match in between good news. The show started a discussion about the Lions who will represent their countries in this international window. We then spent too many minutes (regardless of how many it was, it was too many) on Orlando City's loss at Nashville. That included looking back at our score predictions and selecting our Man of the Match via the process of elimination.

After the match rewind, we turned to Antoine Griezmann's trip to Orlando and a Designated Player signing that could happen today (possibly even before this post goes live). We discuss what Orlando City would be getting and why it doesn't matter that he's an attacking player when the team obviously needs to be better on the defensive end. If nothing else, a Griezmann signing should encourage more people to put things they want to happen out into the universe, because you never know what might be manifested from it.

Our mailbagbox had questions about disappointing Orlando City position groups, Apple TV shows, Braian Ojeda's play so far, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we had to dive into Sunday's insane match between OCB and Inter Miami II. We often joke about "Drunk OCB" but perhaps no match for the Young Lions was more drunk than Sunday's. It included OCB conceding twice inside the first five minutes, trailing by three goals in the second half, three misses with the goalkeeper out of the play, two Miami goalkeepers leaving the match with injuries and an outfield player going into the visitors' net, an Olimpico, 13 minutes of stoppage time, and a penalty shootout. It was one of the wildest 4-4 draws we've ever seen, and the Young Lions grabbed a second point in penalties.

There's no games for the senior or reserve teams this weekend due to the international break, so enjoy not getting your heart ripped out by your soccer club for a few more days.

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Here’s how No. 523 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City got spanked, international Lions, and it sure looks like Antoine Griezmann is signing soon.

31:43 – Our mailbagbox is a helpful distraction from a heavy loss.

52:07 – An incredible OCB game that could have been a lopsided win for either team but instead was a high-scoring draw.

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We looked back at Orlando City's first win of the 2026 season, checked our score predictions, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

Our mailbagbox asked some rather pessimistic questions, what it would take for Perelman to move into the head coaching gig on a permanent basis, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we break down Orlando City B's wild comeback win on the road at Carolina Core. The Young Lions brought "drunk OCB" back in a big way, erasing a 2-0 deficit in the game's final half hour and snatching away all three points at the death. And they did that without a lot of their regular players, who were on the MLS team's bench.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday's mammoth task of beating Nashville SC on the road. If you want to find Saturday's hosts, they're right up near the very top of the Eastern Conference table. We looked at their top threats, provided our key matchups of the game, and made our final score predictions. It's probably not going to go as well as the Montreal game did, but we're here for it if it does.

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Here’s how No. 522 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City is winless no more after a solid performance against CF Montreal.

20:35 – Our mailbagbox is a lot more full after a win.

37:38 – OCB completed a wild comeback win at Carolina Core and the senior Lions are off to face Nashville SC.

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We open the show with a brief discussion of club founder Kay Rawlins, who begins her retirement today after helping establish Orlando City SC from the remnants of the old USL Austin Aztex. She also helped Phil Rawlins build a soccer culture in Orlando, culminating in the club being awarded an MLS franchise. The team put tens of thousands in the old Citrus Bowl/Camping World Stadium in 2015 and 2016 and then introduced a beautiful, brand-new soccer-specific stadium to Orlando's skyline in 2017.

It's fair to say Kay Rawlins was also the heart of the organization, as few people have done more for the club's integration into the community, and she was absolutely instrumental in bringing an NWSL side to the City Beautiful. Kay will be missed in the front office, but she's earned her retirement, and you can look for her in the stands.

Our mailbagbox wanted to know about coaching options, and we tabled our answer until the second part of the show, but we did eventually get there. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

We had a spirited discussion of Pareja's time in Orlando, the manner in which he leaves his position, and whether anyone could have won with the cards he'd been dealt in the first few matches of this season or even some of what he had to put up with in 2025. We also talked about Ricardo Moreira placing his own rear end on the hot seat now that there isn't a coaching scapegoat still hanging around, and we discussed what Moreira said about the next coaching hire and the style of play of the team. Oh, and we throw out a few names to answer that mailbagbox question.

Finally, we adjusted our score predictions for Saturday's match against CF Montreal. While Dave only changed his score, I changed my result and I predict a couple more goals to be scored.

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Here’s how No. 521 went down:

0:15 – The heart of Orlando City is leaving as Kay Rawlins bids goodbye to the club she helped build.

4:32 – Oscar's exit from as many angles as we had time to cover and our mailbagbox question asked about potential replacements.

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We mostly complain about a performance that had just about no redeeming qualities, discuss the ripple effect on the club's goalkeepers, check on our score predictions, and somehow come up with a Man of the Match.

Our mailbagbox asked us to ban something from the game and wanted to know which Lion will fail to play a full 90 before another Lion. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Orlando City B gave us something to smile about at least, as the Young Lions bounced back from an opening day loss to beat Chicago Fire II 2-1 at home Sunday night. Justin Ellis scored the game winner and that will hopefully unlock his offense, which has been a bit stagnant for a minute. It was good to see OCB get the win, but there are concerns with the MLS NEXT Pro side's center back situation as well.

Finally, we look ahead to the return of Dagur Dan Thorhallsson, as CF Montreal visits Orlando Saturday night. We look at the series history between the sides, provide our key matchups for the game, and make identical score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 520 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City was not good, and the not-good parts were ignited by a Mad Max moment.

17:16 – The mailbagbox is a temporary salve on our wounds.

24:42 - OCB wins its first game of 2026 and the senior Lions brace for Impact (see what I did there?) with Montreal coming to town.

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We break down the negatives and the positives of the Lions' 4-2 home loss to Miami on Sunday, check back on our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match. The young players look like they can play, but consistency is critically lacking right now.

Our mailbagbox asked us to bet on the number of players who will get at least a minute on the back line this season, and we hope it's not more than last year. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After we get sidetracked narrating Monday night's OCB game, as we recorded while it was on, we turn our attention to a Saturday matinee match at Yankee Stadium against New York City FC. We know the venue sucks for soccer and the Lions have historically been poor there, but Orlando City desperately needs to try to at least bring home a point to stop the bleeding.

We look back at the series history, discuss some of the important players for the Pigeons, present our key matchups for the game, and make another futile attempt to predict the final score.

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Here’s how No. 519 went down:

0:15 – The Lions held a multi-goal lead...until they didn't.

28:26 – The mailbagbox is short and sweet and concerned with the back line.

40:38 - Orlando City hits the road for the first time in 2026.

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We start this episode with the report from Tom Bogert that Orlando City is pursuing Atletico Madrid star attacking midfielder/forward and French international Griezmann for the club's third Designated Player slot. This is something we put out into the universe a few years ago with no expectation that anything would ever happen. It's entirely possible nothing ever does happen, but it's astounding that credible soccer writers are even talking about it. We know Ricardo Moreira was just going along with us when we asked him to sign Griezmann, but it's still been amazing to parlay our longtime running gag into a potential bit of historic club news.

Our discussion revolves around staying grounded amid the current reports, how exciting it would be to have an attacker of his quality if Griezmann were to sign, and how a potential signing puts us on the hot seat if he doesn't perform. Thanks to everyone who reached out to us after hearing the news.

After diving into the surrealism that my dumb gag could actually take place, we turn to a less pleasant topic: Orlando City's 2-1 home loss to the New York Red Bulls in Saturday's 2026 season opener. The Lions started the match horribly, with the exception of Maxime Crepeau's shot stopping. Although the second half was much better after a couple of substitutions and a tactical change, the Lions had an equally difficult time beating Ethan Horvath, who was outstanding in the New York goal. Ultimately, Tiago's first MLS goal came too late to change the game, but at least Orlando fans can take heart in the team's fight and the Lions can perhaps take some momentum from the second 45 minutes.

We discuss all the key moments, players, and plays from the game, check on our score predictions, and select our Orlando City Man of the Match. The latter was an easy choice.

Our mailbagbox asked about our reactions to the Griezmann reports, how to rank the future minutes of the bench players Saturday who didn't get on the field, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we wrap up the show with a look ahead to Sunday's Tropic Thunder rivalry match with Inter Miami. The Herons were blasted at LAFC over the weekend and Lionel Messi escaped punishment for his petulant pursuit of the match officials after the game as his teammates tried to hold him back. Might Messi try to take his frustrations out on the Lions Sunday in Orlando? Well, he has yet to step foot on the Inter&Co Stadium pitch for a league game since arriving in MLS, but...maybe. Will fans run onto the field like idiots if he plays? Possibly.

We present our key matchups to the game and try to predict the final score. We were in lockstep on both topics.

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Here’s how No. 518 went down:

0:15 – Antoine Griezmann in Orlando? I'll believe it when I get the club's press release with photos of the Frenchman with his purple kit. Still...it's nice that it's even being discussed. Oh, and Orlando City played a match against the Red Bulls.

37:55 – The mailbagbox is fun and seems to genuinely want me to be happy.

54:26 - The first round of Tropic Thunder 2026 looms on Sunday.

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We open this week's show with thoughts about Saturday's preseason loss to the Rapids from the lineup, to the inexperienced bench, to Ivan Angulo as a fullback, to the back line problems, to Eduard Atuesta's magical free kick goal, and so on. Orlando City may have lost a lopsided game on the scoreboard, but the Rapids simply paid off the few chances they generated, while the Lions controlled the play of the match but could not find the same success at the final moment that Colorado found.

I also gave some thoughts on the discussions we had postgame with Marco Pasalic, Eduard Atuesta, and Oscar Pareja. The players didn't seem any less confident or show any less belief in the team after the loss, handling it as you'd expect from veteran professionals. Pareja was candid about the need for improvement and the challenge of letting Iago play while he's still learning the Orlando City system and the expectations of his teammates. We also provided an update on some of the injured Lions who did not make the match day squad on Saturday.

Our mailbagbox asked about potential changes to the starting lineup, which player's jersey to buy, who would play us in a biopic about this podcast, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we wrap up the show with a brief discussion of Saturday's opening night matchup against the New York Red Bulls. There's not a lot to go on after preseason, but we do manage to unanimously give our key matchup of the game and we try our hand at score predictions. It's never an easy thing to do in the first game of the season.

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Here’s how No. 517 went down:

0:15 – The Lions got battered on the scoreboard, but the game didn't play out as badly as all that. Still, Orlando City has work to do and is dreadfully thin.

27:42 – The mailbagbox shows we've got decent overall taste in player jerseys and unrealistic expectations about who should play us in a movie about us.

50:25 - The Red Bulls are visiting on Saturday. Can the Lions handle them? We try to prognosticate.

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We start this show with some of the bad news, beginning with the sale of Alex Freeman to Villarreal in Spain's La Liga. While we're happy Alex is chasing his soccer dreams, it's a bitter pill to swallow getting only one season out of a kid we've watched grow up with OCB and blossom over the course of one fantastic MLS season.

Speaking of bitter pills...Facundo Torres is back — but not with Orlando. Torres will play for Austin FC just a year after leaving the Lions to return to South America to play in Brazil.

Sticking with the bad news theme, we discuss Robin Jansson's foot surgery and when we might see him back on the pitch. Not only do the Lions need their captain, but there's precious little top flight experience at the center back position, especially with the signing of Dusan Stojinovic falling through due to a failed medical. We discuss the problems with depth along the defense and what Orlando might be doing about it. It is not what we would do about it.

But it isn't all bad news. There is plenty of good news in the preseason as well, and we start that with a discussion of Orlando City re-signing Martin Ojeda through the 2028-2029 season. Ojeda is one of the league's more humble and likeable star players, and we hope he's building his professional legacy here in the City Beautiful.

Additionally, the Lions signed first-round 2026 MLS SuperDraft picks Harvey Sarajian and Nolan Miller. If both players end up having decent careers, this year's draft will be one to remember for City fans. But there was another big signing as well. Brazilian center back Iago joins Orlando City on an MLS U22 Initiative deal, and it looks like he'll be pressed into service sooner rather than later.

Finally, we discuss some of the best news of all: Wilder Cartagena and Yutaro Tsukada have both been participating fully in preseason after suffering season-ending injuries during the 2025 preseason. It's great to see them back on the pitch and they'll hopefully be able to contribute throughout the 2026 season.

Our mailbagbox asked us to rank potential Polish international signings, pick our (and Oscar Pareja's) Orlando City midfield starters, and run through the depth chart. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following our mailbagbox, we discussed the club's new Sunken Treasure kits. The Lions will be adorned in gold for the first time and we like the look. We break down some of the features about the kits and some of the things that we're not as happy with. Overall, it's another solid design for OCSC.

We wrap up with a brief discussion of the 2026 OCB schedule release and what to expect from the Young Lions' MLS NEXT Pro opponents this year. There was also another one of our patented digressions in the middle of that, but you expected it, right?

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Here’s how No. 516 went down:

0:15 – We've got some bad news, Orlando City fans, and we've got some good news. We start with the bad so we could end on a high note.

35:43 – The mailbagbox is still trying to sign Polish internationals and is interested in the midfield.

55:19 - The Sunken Treasure kits and OCB's 2026 slate is out.

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The Lions have had various comings and goings since our last show, and we discuss the movement in and out of the roster. We thought Carlos Coronel was going to be the new Orlando City starter in goal, but he fled to Brazil, so we welcome Canadian international Maxime Crepeau to the City Beautiful. It's not as splashy an addition, but it could be just as effective a roster move if he can regain his form from his Vancouver and LAFC days.

We also discussed the additions of Tiago, Luis Otavio, and Braian Ojeda. On the other hand, departures took place as well, such as Nico Rodriguez being loaned to Atletico Nacional and the reports that Luis Muriel may be finalizing a deal to move on. We chatted about what those moves mean in the grand scheme of things. Kyle Smith went home and we are glad he's still playing but sad to see him in another team's uniform.

The preseason schedule was a bit underwhelming, but we ran through it quickly.

Our mailbagbox was a little light, and it proved to us how little we know about the Polish national team. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we talked a bit about the recent moves OCB has made, including the addition of a Brazilian striker. Former OCB forward Shak Mohammed is off to Nashville, while OCB/OCSC left wing Yutaro Tsukada showed up to preseason camp with a wedding ring. Congrats to Yutaro!

Note: we are now in our off-season podcast schedule, which is guaranteed to give you at least one episode per month but we will only be weekly if/when news warrants it. We'll also return for at least one more show to say goodbye if things don't work out for us to continue, but we are hoping it doesn't come to that!

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Here’s how No. 515 went down:

0:15 – An update on our staffing crisis is more hopeful than the last one, and we go through the various arrivals and departures.

30:16 – The mailbagbox seeks help for Orlando City from Poland and wants to know which position we'd least like to see the club make a Designated Player signing.

41:52 - OCB news, a new home for Shak, and Tsukada ties the knot.

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However, we start with an update on The Mane Land's current situation with regard to whether or not we are going to be able to continue service in 2026. Right now, we're remaining optimistic amidst several people offering to help out. We're going through some "practice recaps" from prospective writers and trying to determine who can help us on the editing side. We would love to keep going, but we are spread far too thin to carry on as we have in the past. If you want to get involved, here's what we're talking about and what to do if you're in a position to help.

After our update, we discuss some difficult departures, as veteran defenders Rodrigo Schlegel and Kyle Smith have both left the club. Schlegel will always own one of the most iconic moments in Orlando City history, and we will miss the Lions' agent of chaos. Smith was a good soldier (sorry, soldado), and we'll miss his hustle, determination, and willingness to do whatever it takes to help the club.

We also touched upon the fact that the Lions will be playing in three competitions next season, with entry in both the U.S. Open Cup and the Leagues Cup to go along with their MLS participation. We rank the order of importance and you will not be surprised at our rankings.

Players didn't just leave Orlando City. Some arrived, too. We discuss the Lions' 2026 MLS SuperDraft haul and the way they spent their plethora of first-round picks. We also welcome MLS U22 Initiative player Tiago from Brazil ahead of the 2026 season. Additionally, we tell you who is pretty much done with the exception of the official announcements.

OCB also released some news, with Head Coach Manuel Goldberg getting his option picked up for 2026 and midfielder Justin Hylton signing a two-year MLS NEXT Pro deal with the Young Lions.

Finally, our mailbagbox was extremely full and featured a trivia mini-marathon. You'll be able to see how your guesses stack up against ours. We also had a fun question about a missing remote and a horrifying hypothetical. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Note: we are now in our off-season podcast schedule, which is guaranteed to give you at least one episode per month but we will only be weekly if/when news warrants it. We'll also return for at least one more show to say goodbye if things don't work out for us to continue, but we are hoping it doesn't come to that!

Be sure to rate and review our show wherever you get your podcasts. Remember, we'll read any five-star reviews we get on Apple Podcasts on the next show.

If you’d like to support our independent writing and podcasting efforts, we’d love to have you as a subscriber or donor over at our Buy Me a Coffee site.

Here’s how No. 514 went down:

0:15 – A word about our future and while we're staying optimistic about getting the help we need, we are by no means out of danger. Plus, more bad news as we say goodbye to a few Lions.

28:24 – The good news is who is arriving, who might be arriving soon, and OCB happenings.

40:45 - A full mailbagbox leaves us as satisfied as a big Christmas dinner.

Happy holidays to you all and thank you for your support all year long (and in years past)!

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We also discussed the Luis Otavio rumors as the 18-year-old central midfielder is reportedly finalizing an MLS U22 Initiative deal to join the Lions for the 2026 season. We're watching with great interest after Cesar Araujo's departure.

Our mailbagbox asked how contracts are going to work with the change to a fall/spring MLS calendar and which Lions and dishes we want at our Thanksgiving feast. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we discussed Robin Jansson re-signing with the Lions through 2027. The captain is back, and it sounds like he helped restructure his deal in a way that will help the club conduct the off-season business Ricardo Moreira wants to complete. Always the team player, our captain.

Finally, we looked at Orlando City's 2026 MLS schedule. The Lions start and finish at home, must play Atlanta on short rest twice, and will face San Diego FC for the first time.

Note: we are now in our off-season podcast schedule, which is guaranteed to give you at least one episode per month but we will only be weekly if/when news warrants it.

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Here’s how No. 513 went down:

0:15 – Alex Freeman is a finalist for U.S. Male Player of the Year on the heels of his brace against Uruguay in Tampa, and Luis Otavio may be on his way to Orlando.

13:31 – The mailbagbox is seasonal this time out!

26:05 - Robin Jansson is staying in Orlando and the 2026 schedule is out early.

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This week's mailbagbox asked about Major League Soccer's switch to a European soccer calendar, the number of current Lions under contract who will start on opening day in 2026, what we thought of the most recent season of Slow Horses, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we discussed Orlando City's 2025 end-of-season roster update. There weren't any big surprises, but there were one or two mild ones. We discuss every player's contract status and compare that to our predictions from our annual stays/goes segment. We did pretty well, but it's not that difficult when you know the contract situations. The old days, when contract lengths were secrets, were a crapshoot

Note: we are now in our off-season podcast schedule, which is guaranteed to give you at least one episode per month but we will only be weekly if/when news warrants it.

Be sure to rate and review our show wherever you get your podcasts. Remember, we'll read any five-star reviews we get on Apple Podcasts on the next show.

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Here’s how No. 512 went down:

0:15 – A young Uruguayan midfielder leaves, but a veteran Peruvian midfielder can fill his shoes, provided he can come back from an Achilles injury.

9:25 – The mailbagbox fills our hearts with joy by letting us talk about Gary Oldman portraying Jackson Lamb.

26:18 - Orlando City roster decisions! Hey, we need a keeper.

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After our Freeman discussion, we chatted about the Lions who were called up for the November FIFA window, including four players at the youth level. There was a time not long abo when Orlando City academy players weren't getting a sniff by the youth national teams, but those days are in the past. Congrats to Tahir Reid-Brown, Justin Ellis, Colin Guske, and Jacob Ramirez.

David Brekalo and Tyrese Spicer will also be with their national teams in the upcoming window.

This week's mailbagbox asked about whether Michael Halliday should get another look from Orlando after being let go by Houston, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we discussed Pedro Gallese's departure from Orlando City. El Pulpo was one of the faces of the franchise for the past six seasons and it's hard to imagine anyone else being the No. 1 for the Lions, but that's the new reality. In addition to reminiscing about Gallese's play, we talked about how he's almost certainly going to have his name in the Legends Terrace in the future, and we pontificated about where he'll turn up next. We also discussed Orlando City being at a crossroads on the backend, as the team not only needs to replace Gallese, but Rodrigo Schlegel and a pair of defensive midfielders are out of contract, Robin Jansson has an option year remaining, and so does Eduard Atuesta. Plus, Freeman will be courted by European teams, so the back half of the lineup could look extremely different in 2026.

Note: we are now in our off-season podcast schedule, which is guaranteed to give you at least one episode per month but we will only be weekly if/when news warrants it.

Be sure to rate and review our show wherever you get your podcasts. Remember, we'll read any five-star reviews we get on Apple Podcasts on the next show.

If you’d like to support our independent writing and podcasting efforts, we’d love to have you as a subscriber or donor over at our Buy Me a Coffee site.

Here’s how No. 511 went down:

0:15 – Alex Freeman broke out in just about every way imaginable: MLS All-Star, MLS Best XI, Young Player of the Year, and now getting regular call-ups by the USMNT. Deservedly so.

14:52 – You get a guest voice in this week's mailbagbox!

29:38 - We will miss your time-wasting antics and your spectacular saves, El Pulpo.

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We discussed Orlando's brief stay in the playoffs, checked on our score predictions, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

The club also dropped a bombshell on Monday with the announcement that Luiz Muzzi is leaving the club. Muzzi is the architect that constructed Orlando City squads that reached six consecutive postseasons and won the club's first trophy in the 2022 U.S. Open Cup. We discuss Muzzi's exit and the job that Ricardo Moreira must now do to get the team to the next level.

This week's mailbagbox asked about changes in the game we'd like to see, which player we'd be most surprised to see start on opening day 2026, returning Designated Players, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we went through the Orlando City rosters and discussed whether we think each player will stay or go this off-season in our annual stays/goes segment. As an added wrinkle, this year we included whether we would prefer if they stay or go.

Note: we are now in our off-season podcast schedule, which is guaranteed to give you at least one episode per month but we will only be weekly if/when news warrants it.

Be sure to rate and review our show wherever you get your podcasts. Remember, we'll read any five-star reviews we get on Apple Podcasts on the next show.

If you’d like to support our independent writing and podcasting efforts, we’d love to have you as a subscriber or donor over at our Buy Me a Coffee site.

Here’s how No. 510 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City is out of the playoffs after a poor performance at Chicago. We provide your playoff autopsy and look at Luiz Muzzi's Orlando's exit.

19:56 – The mailbagbox is chock full this week and there's an underlying (sometimes overlying) sense of frustration.

35:35 - It's our annual stays/goes segment. Walk through the roster with us and help us build next year's team.

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We discussed the game longer than it deserved, looked back at our hilariously wrong score predictions, and made our selections for Man of the Match. One of us persuaded the other to change his pick, which rarely happens.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about Orlando City's many draws this season, non-alcoholic beer recommendations, how much we'd sell Marco Pasalic for, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, Orlando City must play a midweek game against the Chicago Fire on the road to advance to the first round of the MLS playoffs. The Lions are not in a great position and are dealing with some key absences, but at least they get to start over with a clean slate now. We looked back at the season series with Chicago, the all-time series against the Fire, and compare the teams. We also provide our key matchups and make our (pessimistic) score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 509 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City did not seem prepared to take on a middling Toronto FC team on the road on Decision Day despite the Lions having much more to play for hanging in the balance. Now the Lions will have an even more uphill climb in the postseason, traveling for a wild card game.

25:52 – The mailbagbox isn't sure which of Orlando City's draws was the most frustrating.

39:31 - Orlando City's postseason could be a short one, as the Lions visit the Windy City to take on a dangerous Chicago Fire attack.

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Despite all that, the Lions took the lead through Dagur Dan Thorhallsson's well-taken goal. Although the Whitecaps dominated possession and smothered Orlando whenever the Lions had the ball, the lads in purple were just minutes away from a gigantic three points. But Kyle Smith smashed a clearance off a Whitecap and into his own net to tie the game late, and Vancouver's big signing scored in the seventh of five added minutes to take all the points from Orlando. After seeing the good side of the Cardiac Cats in recent weeks, the game was a reminder that the bad Cardiac Cats are also out there lurking.

We tried not to dwell too much on a gut punch of a game in our recap, checked our score predictions, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about Saturday's center back pairing and pizza toppings — in completely separate questions. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, Orlando City will have to try once more to score more than one goal in a game as the Lions visit BMO Field in Toronto Saturday for a Decision Day match against the Reds of Toronto FC. We look back at the series history, discuss the relative performances of the two clubs, provide our key matchups, and make our predictions for the final score on Saturday.

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Here’s how No. 508 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City was nine minutes plus stoppage from an improbable but much-needed win. Then a dumb thing happened. And then a bad thing happened.

22:57 – The mailbagbox is succinct this week but still quite fun.

30:53 - The Lions travel north of the border for a Decision Day match against Toronto FC. Orlando needs three points to safely avoid the wild card game, but the Reds have been drawing almost everyone lately.

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We look back at the key moments, players, and plays of a home game with some squandered chances to claim all three points. We also check our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about Orlando City's back four, the Eastern time zone, beers, hikes, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB needed to win on Decision Day to get into the playoffs given other results around MLS NEXT Pro. However, the Young Lions played poorly, got throttled, and instead allowed visiting FC Cincinnati 2 to get into the postseason. OCB's streak of playoff appearances was snapped at two, and the Young Lions are done for 2025 after a rough second half of the season.

Finally, Orlando City will be missing a plethora of key players against a Vancouver Whitecaps side looking to finish atop the Western Conference. The Whitecaps will mostly be intact during this international window, while the Lions will be thin. That said, you've got to play who is in front of you, and that deep run in Leagues Cup ended up preventing Orlando City from playing Vancouver outside the international window with a more full-strength squad. We give you the series history against the Whitecaps, compare the two teams, provide our key matchups for Saturday night, and make our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 507 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City wasted too many good transition chances and it was costly against Columbus — as was a bad-looking injury to Joran Gerbet.

21:30 – The mailbagbox pleads with us to help convince a listener's spouse of something.

36:05 - OCB went gently into that goodnight on Decision Day, and the senior Lions (or what's left of them) will brace themselves for one of the best Vancouver teams in years.

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We look back at the key moments, players, and plays of a critical road match, check our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match, splitting the vote

This week's mailbagbox asked us a pair of trivia questions and added an individual question for each host. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB got two points at Carolina Core FC when it needed three, but it did enough to stay alive in the postseason race but there is no margin for error. The Young Lions fell behind by two goals, battled back to get level, conceded again, and once again equalized on the road. Carlos Mercado then helped his team win the penalty shootout on his birthday to claim the extra point. OCB must beat FC Cincinnati 2 on Sunday at home and get help to reach the postseason.

Finally, Orlando City returns home with another game against a good team from the Buckeye State, as the Columbus Crew visits Inter&Co Stadium on Saturday. Whether Diego Rossi plays or not, the Crew are always a difficult opponent. We break down the series history, look at the battle ahead, provide our key matchups, and make our predictions for the final score.

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Here’s how No. 506 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City didn't seem to want to put the ball in the net, but maybe that's because it wasn't yet the death of stoppage time. Earlier goals are OK too, guys!

27:55 – The mailbagbox offers trivia, but no prizes if we get them right.

39:11 - OCB was listening to Meat Loaf and thinking two out of three ain't bad, and the senior Lions prepare for Columbus.

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We look back at the key moments, players, and plays of the match, check our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox asked about an Orlando City Best XI, ranking rock bands, using MLS U22 Initiative slots, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB did not help itself in the playoff race by losing 1-0 at home to Huntsville City. We discussed the difficult spot the loss put the Young Lions in with just two games remaining. The schedule is favorable, but OCB needs to get wins and a little help to get back above the line or the team will miss the postseason. We give a brief preview of the all-important visit to Carolina Core FC on Saturday.

Finally, the senior Lions head to Ohio to face a good FC Cincinnati team that won the first meeting in Orlando. Stopping Evander is the key but it's much easier said than done. Can Orlando City finally pitch a shutout? If so, can the Lions keep scoring? It's an important game, as they all are down the stretch, with a playoff spot not yet clinched and home field far from certain. We provide the history of the series and our key matchups and make our final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 505 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City threw away the two-goal lead Ojeda provided but McGuire called game.

22:47 – The mailbagbox is concerned with Alex Freeman getting sold.

39:11 - OCB-dropped a heartbreaker to Huntsville City and has no margin for error, and the MLS side heads north to Cincinnati.

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We look back at the match and our score predictions and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox asked about playing teams down a man, sticking current Lions on our Premier League teams, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB went south to face Inter Miami II in a critical rivalry match and despite playing a team that had conceded more than 60 goals on the season, the Young Lions — like the senior squad — scored just one in a wasteful 1-1 road draw. The Young Lions managed to snag the shootout point but dropping one point was enough to put OCB below the playoff line with three matches remaining. Next up is Huntsville City at home on Sunday.

Things won't get any easier for Orlando City, which enters Saturday riding five straight competitive matches without a win. Nashville SC has two wins in two tries against the Lions in 2025, and the high-powered duo of Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar will bring a lot of confidence into Saturday's showdown at Inter&Co Stadium. We discuss the series history, provide our key matchups, and make our final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 504 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City struggled to score on 10-man D.C. on a frustrating night at Audi Field.

17:51 – The mailbagbox is stealing OCSC players!

27:52 - OCB-Miami didn't go as well as it could have, and the senior Lions brace for Nashville.

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We discuss the pros and cons — and the less-than-ideal timing — of the Enrique sale.

This week's mailbagbox asked about Darwin Ceren, Cryptids, and Mauricio Pochettino. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB will head south to face Inter Miami II in a critical rivalry match with just a few games remaining in the regular season. The Young Lions will enter the weekend clinging to the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, but they'll need to add some points to solidify their positioning.

Meanwhile, the senior Lions will head to D.C. to face United. There aren't many familiar names remaining on the D.C. roster, but wins at Audi Field are still never easy. Orlando City hasn't won in its last four matches across all competitions. Hopefully, the international break allowed the squad to reset and get ready for the stretch run after a grueling Leagues Cup campaign. We break down the history of the series, present our key matchups for Saturday night, and make our final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 503 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City sent a likeable and productive backup striker overseas for some cash and opened an MLS U22 Initiative slot in the process.

14:11 – The mailbagbox introduces us to Cryptids and asks us to rank them.

29:26 - OCB and OCSC hit the road in search of points. We preview!

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We discuss Orlando City's 2-1 road loss, which featured one of Pedro Gallese's best-ever saves as a Lion, although it ultimately didn't matter much, looked back at our score predictions, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

We also discussed Seattle's 3-0 win over Inter Miami in the final and the shenanigans that the Herons pulled after losing.

Ramiro Enrique was not in uniform Sunday night in the wake of reports that he's about to be sold for a reported $3 million to a Saudi team. Although the timing isn't perfect, it would be a good return for the Argentine striker.

This week's mailbagbox asked about ice cream, donuts, Carlos Mercado vs. Javier Otero, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB picked up a much-needed three points with a home win over Crown Legacy at the death that nearly immediately became a draw at the even more death. Mercado was sensational in the match for the Young Lions and Thalles scored the timely goal to push the club over the playoff line for the time being. I nearly started to preview an OCB game that is more than a week ago, but the important thing is I stopped myself, otherwise the show would have been even longer.

The senior Lions are also off this week, so we'll see you next week!

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Here’s how No. 502 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City looked to be following the same script as in the win at LA back in March, but then coughed up the ball in a dangerous spot to one of the Galaxy's best scorers.

29:36 – The mailbagbox is trying to make us fat(ter).

46:38 - OCB has put together two consecutive late wins as the Young Lions try to get back into playoff contention after several rough weeks.

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Those types of calls marred what had been a masterful road gameplan for an hour and a quarter, helping turn the game around in Inter Miami's favor and pushing the Herons into the Leagues Cup final. Florida might be purple, but officiating crews these days tend to be pink.

Orlando City is left to stew, swallow harsh words that could get the team fined, and prepare for a third-place match against the LA Galaxy. As some fans might not know, that game is important, because the winner of the consolation game gets a big prize — a spot in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

We break down a frustrating night for the Lions that was mostly (but not entirely) out of their control, look back at our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match. Nope, it is not the referee or the video assistant referee, so don't even think it. However, if this were an Inter Miami podcast, one of them would likely get the honor.

Big props to me for getting through the first segment without dropping any F-bombs!

This week's mailbagbox asked about current Lion Adrian Marin, former Lion Cristian Higuita, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB will look to build on its win last week against Atlanta United 2 when Crown Legacy visits Kissimmee on Sunday night. The Young Lions have worked their way down below the playoff line this summer, hung around, and now must claw their way back over the line just a tantalizing few points above them. A win Sunday would be a six-pointer, as Crown Legacy would also like to battle its way into the postseason.

Finally, we looked ahead to a Sunday night matchup on the road against the LA Galaxy in the third-place match of Leagues Cup. The winner gets a Concacaf Champions Cup. The winner gets nothing except more tired legs to recover from during the upcoming international break. We would like the former, but it won't be easy against a Galaxy team that has played better in recent weeks and will not have traveled in a while. Orlando, meanwhile, was in Los Angeles just over a week ago to face Toluca, and this will be the club's third match at Dignity Health Sports Park in 2025. We prepare you for the matchup with a look at the all-time series and who the Lions must watch out for in the Galaxy attack, provide our key matchups, and make our final score predictions. We expect it to be a tough task for Orlando on tired legs.

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Here’s how No. 501 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City was doing OK throughout Wednesday night's ref show until the third team on the field found its opening to help the Herons. We rant a bit, but with a purpose.

32:18 – The mailbagbox wasn't flooded with hate, as we expected, and that made it easier to put Wednesday in the past.

42:17 - A critical match for OCB looms, and the Lions will try again to qualify for continental play.

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Orlando City rotated nearly the whole squad for Wednesday's match in Nashville and got walloped. Following Saturday's penalty shootout win over Toluca, the Lions stayed on the road, which has traditionally led to beatdowns for the lads in purple over the years. This was no exception as Nashville scored twice in the first 17 minutes, four times in the first half, and five in all in a comprehensive 5-1 smackdown of a largely backup Orlando side. We didn't really want to discuss it, but we did it anyway. We also gave the salient talking points from the game, checked back on our score predictions, and made our obvious selections for Man of the Match.

After our Nashville rewind, we welcomed back an old familiar face/voice to the PawedCast. Former Mane Land writer and 17-time host of this show Austin David jumped on to reminisce a little about his time with TML, but also to talk about what he's been up to since leaving us, including his current job as the digital content manager for Orlando City SC and the Orlando Pride. It was great catching up with Austin on this episode, although to be fair, I catch up with him at every Orlando City home game. It just felt like a homecoming, and we hope our long time listeners enjoyed this blast from the past.

This week's mailbagbox asked about our nicknames, stadiums abroad where we'd like to see Orlando City play, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB came from behind using sheer grit and determination to turn a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 win over Atlanta United 2 on Saturday. It was great to see a different ending to what appeared to be the same old script from the Young Lions, and Colin Guske and Shak Mohammed led the comeback. OCB's next match will be at home Sunday against Crown Legacy. We'll preview that on our next episode later this week.

Finally, we looked ahead to Wednesday night's Leagues Cup semifinal edition of the Tropic Thunder rivalry, as the Lions head to Ft. Lauderdale looking to knock the Herons out of the competition, claim their third win in the series this season, and qualify for Concacaf Champions Cup. It won't be easy, as it's always difficult to beat a team three times in a row, especially one that's as stacked with talent and bitter about two lopsided defeats as Miami is. We know the opponents well, so we go straight to the key matchups and score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 500 went down:

0:15 – An intro about 500 episodes precedes the soccer talk. Orlando City would have gotten a better result with a forfeit to Nashville than the Lions got from playing the game.

29:07 – Austin David jumps on with us to discuss his role with Orlando City and his time at The Mane Land back in the day.

1:04:10 - The mailbagbox, OCB's win, and an extra round of Tropic Thunder.

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We break down the few key moments from the quarterfinals, check back on our score predictions, and make our obvious selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox asked where a fit Duncan McGuire fits into the current lineup, the "dumb" Leagues Cup format, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB will host Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, and it's high time the Young Lions snapped out of their funk and put together a complete performance. We preview the matchup.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday's showdown against Nashville SC. The Tennessee-based side is level with the Lions on points but holds the wins tiebreaker, making it an important first leg of the two-leg season series. We look back on the series history, provide our key matchups and make our predictions for the final score.

Be sure to rate and review our show wherever you get your podcasts. Remember, we'll read any five-star reviews we get on Apple Podcasts on the next show.

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Here’s how No. 499 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City's offense looked like one that played late Saturday night into Sunday in heavy weather and then made a cross-country trip. And then the Lions won in penalties.

22:41 – The mailbagbox has both statements and questions.

44:59 - OCB hosts Atlanta 2, and the Lions visit Nashville for a pivotal Eastern Conference matchup.

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We break down the key moments, plays, and players of the game, check on our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox wondered about the hardships of waiting out the weather, had questions about Dagur Dan Thorhallsson, wanted to know about our favorite sports road trips, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB came within 10 minutes of breaking its winless streak, but then went the other way and lost the game instead of bringing home any points from Columbus. It was another frustrating match for the Young Lions.

Finally, we previewed the Lions' Wednesday night matchup against a good Toluca side out in California. The Liga MX side is a favorite to win the Leagues Cup this season, and the Lions will need to be at their best to keep themselves alive in the competition in what is sure to be a hostile atmosphere We provide our key matchups and make our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 498 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City started fast, then struggled until halftime, before dominating the second half against Sporting Kansas City.

16:58 – The mailbagbox is demanding, but as always, we're up to the challenge.

38:49 - OCB blew another late lead, and the senior Lions head to California to face a Toluca team that isn't from there.

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We break down an enjoyable Orlando City win, check back on our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's massive mailbagbox got into the spirit of the three points over Inter Miami, presenting us questions about such topics as the 2025 Leagues Cup format, goal kicks, opening credit scenes, memorable teachers, and much more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB played a scoreless first half, fell behind early in the second half, went a man down shortly after that, and still should have beaten Chattanooga FC. Goals by Thalles and Shak Mohammed put the Young Lions just moments away from an improbable win, but OCB conceded again deep in stoppage time to turn a win into a draw, before coughing up the extra point with two penalty kicks off the woodwork in the ensuing shootout.

Finally, we previewed the Lions' upcoming home matchup with Western Conference side Sporting Kansas City. We look back at the series history, provide our key matchups, and make our final score predictions for the match.

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Here’s how No. 497 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City keeps scoring, which helps the Lions keep winning. When those wins are against Inter Miami, it's that much sweeter.

26:10 – The mailbagbox is full, signaling the celebration of a rivalry win.

53:40 - OCB came close, but remains unable to win, and the MLS Lions are set to square off against SKC.

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The Lions made their second move of the 2025 Secondary Transfer Window on Thursday, signing defender Adrian Marin from Portugal's top flight. Marin is a left back who can also fill in at center back, so he fits needs at two positions. We discuss what the move might mean for the roster in the short term and after the season.

The mailbagbox asked us about Muriel's performance, the Orlando City central midfield depth, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB will try to stop the bleeding Saturday night when Chattanooga FC visits Kissimmee. It's going to be interesting seeing who plays, considering the Young Lions play the day before the senior squad.

Finally, we previewed the Lions' second Tropic Thunder showdown of 2025, as Inter Miami visits on Sunday. The Herons might once again visit Orlando without their talisman, but they have multiple players who would be Designated Players on other teams, so pulling off a season sweep won't be easy. We look back at the series history, present our key matchups, and make our final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 496 went down:

0:15 – The Lions destroyed Necaxa as they attempted to stay alive in Leagues Cup, and Orlando City signed a defender.

27:11 – The mailbagbox and a quick preview of OCB vs. Chattanooga.

44:56 - Tropic Thunder returns as the Lions host the Herons on Sunday.

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Following our game breakdown, we discussed Orlando City's acquisition of Trinidad & Tobago international winger Tyrese Spicer. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft has some untapped upside, and we'll see if Oscar Pareja and his staff can unlock his potential. Spicer fills a need by providing depth on the left side, and he's versatile enough to play wingback and even fullback if needed.

We're also happy to welcome back Cristian Diaz, a writer for FutMexNation and a podcaster at Cantina MX. He helps us preview the weekend meeting with Necaxa as Orlando City closes the League Phase of the 2025 Leagues Cup. Big thanks to Cristian for joining us yet again and giving us the info we need on Wednesday's opponents.

The mailbagbox asks us about what Spicer's arrival means, what cool nicknames we would want, random OCSC jersey sightings, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we spend some time being exasperated with OCB's recent form, including some of the worst goals conceded this season against New York City FC II on Sunday.

Finally, we previewed the Lions' Leagues Cup match against Necaxa, presenting our key matchups and final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 495 went down:

0:15 – The Lions blew another lead in the second half, but this time they wrote themselves a different ending. Plus, welcome, Tyrese Spicer!

18:48 – Cristian Diaz smacks us with all his knowledge about Necaxa.

29:16 - The mailbagbox, the OCB Minute, and our Necaxa key matchups and predictions.

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We break down the match, check back to see how we made out with our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match. We also spoke briefly about the MLS return of Antonio Carlos to a team not named Orlando City.

Following our game breakdown, we welcome back Cristian Diaz, a writer for FutMexNation and a podcaster at Cantina MX. He helps us preview the weekend meeting with Atlas as Leagues Cup continues. Big thanks to Cristian for jumping on with us and giving us the info we need.

The mailbagbox asks us about Justin Ellis, whether Oscar Pareja will play his kids in Leagues Cup, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we look ahead to OCB's matchup with New York City FC II Sunday night.

Finally, we previewed the Lions' Leagues Cup match against Atlas, presenting our key matchups and final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 494 went down:

0:15 – The Lions can't stop dropping points from a winning position at home. This time in international club play.

27:51– Cristian Diaz returns to drop knowledge bombs on us about Atlas ahead of Saturday's Leagues Cup matchup.

35:55 - The mailbagbox, a quick OCB preview, and our Atlas key matchups and predictions.

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We go back and check our score predictions from last week, break down the game's critical plays, and make our selections for Man of the Match. There was plenty of love to go around, as evidenced by the five Orlando representatives on the MLS Team of the Matchday.

Following our game breakdown, we are joined by Cristian Diaz, a writer for FutMexNation.com and a podcaster at Cantina MX. He gives us a crash course on Wednesday night's Leagues Cup opponents, Pumas. Big thanks to Cristian for jumping on with us and giving us the info we need.

The mailbagbox asks us about what will be in the next MLS collective bargaining agreement, podcast listeners as Orlando City players, our five favorite MCU villains, and much more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we probably spent less than a minute on our OCB Minute. It was a rough outing for the Young Lions in a 4-0 loss at Huntsville. Best not to speak of it.

Finally, we previewed the Lions' Leagues Cup opener against Pumas, presenting our key matchups and final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 493 went down:

0:15 – The Lions made it two road wins in a row, and despite a bad start, this one was more impressive than the victory at New England.

21:00– Cristian Diaz joins us to give us a knowledge download on Pumas ahead of Wednesday's first-ever meeting between the teams.

30:34 - The mailbagbox, the OCB Minute, and a brief Pumas preview.

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We check in with our score predictions from last week, break down the game's vital plays, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

The mailbagbox gave us a break from bread questions to ask us about our own forays into youth soccer, how we watch the games, who we would start in the next match if we were in charge, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we discussed this week's MLS All-Star festivities and which OCSC players are involved in each one. We then moved on to our OCB Minute, which was probably longer than a minute and definitely longer than the Young Lions' game on Sunday deserved. It was not a good performance on the road by OCB.

Finally, we previewed the Lions' trip to Columbus to play the Crew on Friday night. We looked back at the series history, compare where the teams are in the table, discussed the Crew's major players, provided our key matchups, and made our score predictions.

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0:15 – The Lions went to New England and brought home all three points. That is something we were in favor of them doing.

18:12– The mailbagbox wants us to pick lineups and put different items in chronological order. We feel like this is the precursor to an audio crossword puzzle or something.

36:28 - MLS All-Star stuff, OCB was not good whatsoever at New England Revolution II on Sunday, and the Lions head north to face the Crew.

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Did we find the game irritating? Annoying? Depressing? Maddening? Yes, yes, yes, and yes! Still, we look back at our score predictions, discuss the important moments of the game, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

The mailbagbox has more questions about bread (for some reason), and asks us about serving in the military, strengthening weak feet, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we remind you that OCB is on the road at New England on Sunday.

Finally, we previewed the Lions at the Revolution Saturday at Gillette Stadium — Orlando's historic house of horrors — breaking down the history of the series, checking out the teams' relative spots in the standings, providing our key matchups, and making our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 491 went down:

0:15 – The Lions dominated, led the game late, and still managed to lose at home.

22:16– The mailbagbox has even more bread questions, and it's a good thing we don't have gluten allergies.

43:52 - Orlando City has to visit New England because the teams are in the same conference and that's how it works. But we would rather...not.

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For the second match in a row, one of us nailed our score prediction. Even a blind squirrel...something, something. Anyway, we broke down the key moments and actions in the game and selected our Man of the Match.

The mailbagbox is overflowing this week, with many questions about various bread products, which young Lion we think could see first-team minutes, the Lord of the Rings, Orlando City cult heroes, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we look back at OCB's 3-1 home win over Carolina Core FC. It's way more than an "OCB Minute," because the Young Lions deserved it. Justin Ellis is on fire, Thalles scored his first OCB goal, and Carlos Mercado stood on his head.

Finally, we looked ahead to Wednesday night's match against New York City FC. The Lions will need to find a higher offensive gear while maintaining the defensive effort we saw against Montreal in order to win this six-pointer against their 2015 expansion rivals. We provide our key matchups and score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 490 went down:

0:15 – The Lions struggled to create against one of the league's worst teams. It wasn't fun.

22:22– The mailbagbox has an unusually high number of bread questions.

49:45 - OCB wins at home and City gets set to host the Pigeons.

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We checked our score predictions — one of us nailed it! — broke down the key moments and players from the game, and split our selections for Man of the Match. We also discuss Ramiro Enrique being honored with a spot on the MLS Team of the Matchday bench.

The mailbagbox asks us about hamburger toppings, Alex Freeman, Orlando City trivia, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, discuss Alex Freeman's Gold Cup final performance with the USMNT, which academy players are headed to the MLS NEXT All-Star Game, and OCB's comeback draw at Crown Legacy. Justin Ellis helped the Young Lions claim a point and Carlos Mercado led the Young Lions to a second in the ensuing shootout.

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando City's home game coming up Saturday against CF Montreal. Saturday's visitors have been poor all season but managed a draw in the first meeting. Plus, the Lions will be without a couple of key cogs on the defensive end. We look at the series history, the tale of the tape, our key matchups, and our score predictions for the match.

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Here’s how No. 489 went down:

0:15 – The Lions finally got going, but only in time to claim a single point in Charlotte.

23:56– The mailbagbox brings forth another slew of important questions for us to answer, and we rap about Alex Freeman and some future OCSC stars. 39:44 - OCB takes two points out of North Carolina, and the Lions get set to host Montreal.

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We checked our score predictions, broke down the key moments and players from the game, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

The mailbagbox wanted us to predict Oscar Pareja's comfort level with his roster and how many guys on an MLS roster should be relied upon for significant minutes. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we touched on OCB's Monday matinee at Philadelphia, which had not yet been played at the time of our recording (we recorded Sunday afternoon because of some scheduling issues). We also discussed Alex Freeman's selection to the MLS All-Star Team.

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando City's matchup on the road at Charlotte. The Lions will have to play well against a difficult conference opponent to get back in the win column. City doesn't have a great record against the other teams above the playoff line, so maybe a game against the 10th-place team is what the club needs to get three points to erase the memory of that Cincinnati loss. We provide our key matchups, look at where the teams are in the table, and made our score predictions for the match.

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Here’s how No. 488 went down:

0:15 – The Lions fell at home in a winnable game, and what's up with these bad goals at home?

22:41– The mailbagbox is small but mighty.

32:59 - OCB hadn't played yet when we talked about their game Monday afternoon at Philly. Plus, Alex Freeman is an MLS All-Star and the senior side heads to North Carolina.

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We checked back on our score predictions from earlier this week to see how we did, analyze the key moments and players from the game, and make our selections for Man of the Match. We also talked about which Lions made the MLS Team of the Matchday.

One thing we didn't discuss was Alex Freeman making the MLS All-Star Team. We'll get to that later. It's been a busy week.

The mailbagbox asked about Rafael Santos and bands we'd like to see reunite and go on tour. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we looked back at another rough outing for OCB against Toronto FC II. The Young Lions were shorthanded, but defensive mistakes handed the visitors a win. We didn't want to dwell on it too long, but if we had, we would have had to discuss how bad OCB's pitch looked. What's up with that?

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando City's matchup against FC Cincinnati on Saturday. We provide the series history and the current state of both teams in this six-pointer. We also provide our key matchups and our score predictions for the game.

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Here’s how No. 487 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City should have cruised to an easier win, but the Lions got the job done and why you no pass ball, Ivan Angulo?

22:41– The questions in our mailbagbox are both soccer-related and not soccer-related.

32:59 - OCB's loss and Orlando City's date with Cincy.

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We then briefly touched on the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which came to Orlando for the first time last week with two matches at Inter&Co Stadium. There are more matches to come in the City Beautiful, with some marquee matchups at Camping World Stadium today and Thursday, as well as a couple of knockout games on the horizon. It's been an interesting couple of games in Orlando and I touch on some of the things that stood out to me.

The mailbagbox asked about this week's starters and whether Martin Ojeda could see time with Argentina's national team. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we have a preview of OCB's home game Wednesday against Toronto FC II at Osceola County Stadium. The Young Lions are coming off a poor performance, but they will be hungry to get back in the win column against a young Reds side below them in the table.

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando City's first trip to St. Louis City. The midweek matchup will be a good test for the Lions, who will be without Freeman and the suspended Rodrigo Schlegel off the back line. The reshuffled defense will have to contend with Joao Klauss, who is coming off a recent hat trick performance. We provide our key matchups and our final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 486 went down:

0:15 – Alex Freeman keeps starting for the United States in the Gold Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup shifts from one Orlando venue to another this week.

16:20– The questions never stop, but there aren't that many of them this time.

24:41 - OCB and Orlando City previews!

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We looked back at the key moments and players in the game, checked our score predictions to see how close we came to being right, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

Alex Freeman's first competitive match with the USMNT came in the Gold Cup against Trinidad & Tobago, and the Orlando City Homegrown fullback was one of the bright spots for the Yanks in a 5-0 win. It just feels like the more he plays, the more he grows.

The mailbagbox asked about whether Orlando City needs to make a change to the starting lineup up top, whether the MLS shutout record will fall this season, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we briefly discussed a forgettable 1-0 OCB loss at Carolina Core FC. The Young Lions didn't have much bite last week against the Foxes, and it wasn't much fun to watch. Both OCB and Orlando City are now off until June 25.

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Here’s how No. 485 went down:

0:15 – The Lions went to the Rocky Mountains and brought back all three points. Alex Freeman went to PayPal Park and played well for the USMNT.

23:27– The questions come from our listeners. The answers come from us. Mailbagbox time!

38:57 - OCB didn't play so well against Carolina Core FC, especially at the offensive end.

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We also spoke about Alex Freeman's first USMNT cap. The Yanks didn't play poorly most of the time, but the two goals they conceded against Turkey were poor, and it's not assuring to see the team playing like this just before the Gold Cup. However, we're happy for Alex, who acquitted himself well in his first match for the U.S. senior team.

The mailbagbox asked about the team's striker situation, players returning to Orlando from international duty, sleeve sponsors, and more. We forgot one question, but in a surprise move, we remembered at the end and stuck in a bonus question late in the show. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we discussed Duncan McGuire's shoulder surgery, which is a big blow to both the big striker and the Lions. Hopefully McGuire will heal as quickly this time as he did with his other shoulder surgery.

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando City's trip to face the Colorado Rapids on Saturday. The Lions will have to battle a decent Rapids side as well as the altitude this weekend in a difficult place to get a result. We look at the series history and both teams' trajectories, provide our key matchups, and make our final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 484 went down:

0:15 – The Young Lions are the new Cardiac Cats and Alex Freeman is a new USMNT fullback.

15:42– Our listeners ask questions both personal and not-so-personal in our mailbagbox segment.

32:35 - Duncan's shoulder woes continue and we look ahead to the Rapids. Oh, and bonus mail!

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That loss stung, but things got worse when the hangover continued into Saturday's home game against the Chicago Fire, in which Pedro Gallese allowed his worst goal in his Orlando City career, then the defense fell asleep for a span of less than two minutes to give Chicago complete control of the game. The Lions fought hard until the end, but could get no closer than 3-1.

We hit the major talking points of both losses, looked back at our score predictions from last week, and made our selections for Man of the Match for each of the two games last week. Orlando City is mercifully off until June 14, when the Lions will take off for the Rockies to face the Colorado Rapids.

We also touched on the Lions who will represent their countries during the current men's international window.

The mailbagbox asked about the atmosphere and attendance at Inter&Co Stadium, Apple TV's Your Friends and Neighbors, Rodrigo Schlegel's future, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we looked back at OCB's strong performance against Eastern Conference-leading Chattanooga FC on Sunday night. The Young Lions were without several regular starters who are away on international duty, but they fought hard and played a good Chattanooga side to a standstill for more than 90 minutes before finding a late winner in stoppage time to take all three points. We previewed OCB's match Friday night at Huntsville City and discussed the Young Lions who are away representing their countries.

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Here’s how No. 483 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City was its own worst enemy in the final 15 minutes at Atlanta and the first 32 minutes against Chicago. We're recapping, but we don't have to like it.

27:49– Mailbagbox, take us away!

52:18 - With no senior team match this weekend, we give OCB deserved props for its win over Chattanooga FC and look ahead to the Young Lions' trip to Huntsville City.

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We discussed the game's talking points, looked back at our score predictions from the last show, and made our unanimous selections for Man of the Match. We also discussed which Lion made the MLS Team of the Matchday bench.

After the first team recap, the OCB discussion was less upbeat, owing to a performance to forget from the Young Lions on a waterlogged pitch Sunday night in Kissimmee. It might have been a better game had OCB not handed the visitors an early goal, but the Young Lions were second best every minute of that game.

The mailbagbox asked about obvious future Lion Antoine Griezmann, Martin Ojeda coming off the bench, our expectations for the OCSC season, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we discussed OCB's upcoming game against Eastern Conference-leading Chattanooga, before moving on to our pair of previews.

First up is a trip to Atlanta on Wednesday, as the Lions try to keep their momentum through this final week of a busy and exhausting May. Then, there's yet another quick turnaround as Orlando City hosts the Chicago Fire on Saturday. We discussed the series history for both games, provided our key matchups, and made our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 482 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City bounced back from the U.S. Open Cup loss with a win over a difficult Portland team, and OCB did not put up any sort of resistance against Atlanta Untied 2.

23:28– Mailbagbox time!

43:06 - The Lions will visit Atlanta and then return home to face Chicago. We've got two

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We broke down a frustrating home knockout loss, looked back at our predictions, and selected our Man of the Match. We also discussed Alex Freeman's USMNT call-up for June's camp.

The mailbagbox asked about Leagues Cup, theme park rides, how the Lions can refresh their legs, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we discussed OCB's match against Atlanta United 2, which was supposed to take place in Atlanta tonight at 7:30. That game has moved to Osceola County Stadium on Sunday at 7 p.m., but since the venue changed to OCB's home field, the match will be played behind closed doors. We preview the Young Lions and the...2-1/2 Stripes?

Finally, we previewed Orlando City's home match against the Portland Timbers. The Lions and Timbers don't always play, but when they do, it's generally entertaining. We discussed the series history, provided our key matchups, and made our predictions for the final score as both teams look to bounce back from tough U.S. Open Cup exits.

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Here’s how No. 481 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City looked tired and played tired, departing the U.S. Open Cup with the feeling that a potential chance to win was ignored by the match official.

32:00– The mailbagbox is a salve on our Open Cup wounds, and OCB's game against Atlanta changes location and moves to Sunday.

1:01:15 - The Lions will host the Portland Timbers in a matchup of two teams that have played a lot of soccer this month.

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We broke down the talking points from the match, looked back at our predictions for the game, and made our selections for Man of the Match. We also discussed the Lions who made Team of the Matchday and a certain fullback who is on the USMNT's preliminary Gold Cup roster.

The mailbagbox asked about MLS All-Stars, players who whine to officials, music to watch soccer by, back pass rules, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we looked back at Justin Ellis' big night in leading OCB to the same 3-0 scoreline that the senior team won by. The Young Lions catapulted the Inter Miami II monkey off their backs with Ellis scoring the third goal from the spot after setting up goals by Gustavo Caraballo and Shak Mohammed.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City's home U.S. Open Cup game against Nashville on Wednesday night. We broke down the tale of where the teams are relative to each other, discussed Nashville's form, provided our key matchups, and made our final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 480 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City kept scoring and defended one of the best attacks in the league with professionalism and concentration for more than 90 minutes.

26:38– The mailbagbox questions keep us thinking, and we looked back at OCB's win over Inter Miami II. The Young Lions have Atlanta United 2 on the road Friday.

1:01:55 - The Lions will host Nashville in U.S. Open Cup action on Wednesday, with a trip to the quarterfinals waiting for the winner.

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We analyzed the key moments of the game, looked back at our score predictions, and made our picks for Man of the Match, which were unanimous again. We also discussed which Lions made the Team of the Matchday for their efforts in the midweek.

The mailbagbox was on short rest again, but our listeners asked us about former Lion Luke Boden and potential future Lions currently with OCB. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Following the mailbagbox segment, we looked ahead to OCB's home game against Inter Miami II on Saturday. The Baby Herons have had the Young Lions' number, and OCB enters this contest having conceded 12 goals in three matches. Manuel Goldberg's young men need to shore up the defense and get back in the win column.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City's trip to play Inter Miami on Sunday. The senior Lions too will be looking to solve the riddle of the Pepto Bismol Pink, who return from a hotly contested match in San Jose on Wednesday. We discuss the series history, the teams' place in the table, our key matchups, and our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 479 went down:

0:15 – Orlando didn't draw and kept streaking against Charlotte FC on Wednesday.

29:26– The mailbagbox relatively short and sweet and we preview OCB's home match Saturday against Inter Miami II.

42:55 - The Lions head south to take on the Herons in Fort Lauderdale. We've got your preview and predictions.

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We broke down the match, discussed most of the key moments, looked back at our score predictions, and made our unanimous picks for Man of the Match.

The mailbagbox was on short rest, but it still managed to hit us with some queries about substitutions, Nico Rodriguez, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City's midweek home game against Charlotte FC. The visitors will be looking to avenge a best-of-three playoff loss to Orlando in 2024, so there may be a bit of extra sauce on this match. We look at the series history and the current situation the two clubs are in, while providing our key matchups and our predictions for what the final score will be on Wednesday night.

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Here’s how No. 478 went down:

0:15 – The Lions settled for yet another draw, but at least goals were scored this time, and Martin Ojeda had all three of them.

26:29– The mailbagbox is always full strength, never rotated.

36:38 - The Lions take one of the less impressive nine-game unbeaten streaks in MLS history (so many draws!) into a midweek clash with Charlotte FC.

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The Lions added three more to win comfortably on the road. We break down the blowout, look back at our score predictions from earlier this week, and unanimously select our Man of the Match.

Whether Orlando City can carry this offensive outburst into the weekend against the stifling New England defense remains to be seen.

The mailbagbox gathered up its strength despite the short week and hit us with questions about our most hated rivals, the order the Lions' Designated Players will finish in goal contributions, whether OCB could beat Tampa Bay, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we previewed the New England Revolution's upcoming visit to Inter&Co Stadium Saturday night. The Lions' recent offensive struggles are problematic, considering the league's best defensive team is on its way to Central Florida. Orlando City will also need to try to contain the always-dangerous Carles Gil and his teammates, so it's a big task ahead of the Lions this weekend. We break down the series history, provide our key matchups, and make our final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 477 went down:

0:15 – The Lions start their 2025 U.S. Open Cup run on the right foot in St. Pete by walloping the Rowdies.

23:42– The mailbagbox is strong, even on short rest.

41:05 - The Lions are unbeaten in eight, but the New England Revolution are on fire right now.

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The Lions put only two shots on target all night in a wasteful effort in Chicago, and the draw felt a bit like a loss, but the upshot is they still ran their unbeaten streak to eight games (3-0-5). We looked back at our score predictions, discussed all the key moments, and made our picks for Man of the Match (honestly, there was no contest for that honor on Saturday, as Pedro Gallese was magnificent). Gallese's effort earned him a spot on the Team of the Matchday this week.

The mailbagbox asks about what we collect, what's up with music today, what we might see Wednesday in the U.S. Open Cup, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB's leaky defense over the previous two games was nothing compared to Friday night in Chicago, when Fire FC II pounded the Young Lions 5-1. Shak Mohammed scored first, but missed a penalty just before halftime that could have made a big difference. Chicago rode its momentum into the second half instead and simply beat the brakes off OCB. The Young Lions will have to live with that at least until hosting Inter Miami II on May 17.

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando City's trip to Tampa Bay Wednesday for the latest iteration of the I-4 Derby. The Lions last met the Rowdies in their first match of the 2022 U.S. Open Cup and now will open the 2025 run against their in-state rivals. The good news is that the 2022 team ended up playing six games in the competition and winning a nice, shiny trophy at the end. We provide our key matchups and score predictions for the midweek USOC match.

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Here’s how No. 476 went down:

0:15 – The Lions kept a fifth straight clean sheet, but also failed to score for the fourth time in five outings. That's not optimal.

23:38– The mailbagbox is a welcome salve on our souls after another scoreless draw.

42:10 - OCB got pounded again, and the Lions head to Tampa Bay to renew the I-4 Derby rivalry.

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We looked back at the key moments in the match, check in our score predictions from last week, and make our selections for Man of the Match. We're just happy Orlando City finished the game with all 11 players on the field and that it wasn't another scoreless draw, but a win over a rival is a serious amount of icing on the cake.

The mailbagbox asks about young players scoring for Orlando City, what's changed for the team in recent weeks, the USMNT, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB got a lot of regular players back but the defense was even more leaky against New York Red Bulls II than it was against Inter Miami II last week. The Young Lions are not communicating or executing effectively in their own end, although they continue to put the ball in the net. They missed a couple of chances to get more out of what ultimately became a 4-2 loss, but some of the finishing was missing and the defense was a problem all night.

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando City's visit to Chicago to play the Fire on Saturday. We dissect the series history between the two clubs, provide our key matchups that we think will decide the game, and try to predict the final score of the match. We'll check on how we did early next week, as we look to move into our first two-episode week of the 2025 season.

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Here’s how No. 475 went down:

0:15 – The Lions managed to keep their fourth consecutive clean sheet and this time there was no sacrifice at the offensive end, with Orlando City ultimately dominating Atlanta.

20:34– The mailbagbox is interested in the changes in Orlando City's fortunes.

41:23 - OCB spent most of Sunday night getting caught in NYRB II traps, and the Lions head to the Windy City.

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The sending off of Santos was ironic, considering he was only on the pitch because Kyle Smith had been sitting on a yellow card since the third minute, and Oscar Pareja decided not to risk a second booking for his left back in the second half. Instead, Smith's replacement picked up two, and as a result, Orlando picked up only one point against what is currently the worst team in Major League Soccer. That's three consecutive scoreless draws for Orlando, and that simply makes for a terrible stretch of soccer viewing.

We look back at our score predictions, chat about the game's major talking points, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

The mailbagbox asks about our EPL teams, officiating, holiday treats, potential lineup changes, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB once again played Inter Miami II in Bradenton, and again it didn't go well. The Young Lions were missing a few key players, but it was some uncharacteristically shoddy defending that did them in this week. Orlando City B also didn't finish enough of its chances and now must regroup at home against New York Red Bulls II.

Orlando City returns home Saturday to face rival Atlanta United. The Lions won't have Santos, but Schlegel returns from suspension, so it will be interesting to see if David Brekalo returns to left back. However, it's the offense that has been troublesome of late, and the Lions must start getting something from the striker position again, and it would be optimal if the Designated Players in the attacking midfield would start scoring again. Or a central midfielder. Or even a defender. Goals, please, is I guess what I'm saying. We provide our key matchups for this Southeastern showdown match and offer up our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 474 went down:

0:15 – The Lions are shut out for the third straight week but also shut out the opponent for the third weekend in a row. You have to continue to take the good with the bad, I guess.

23:08– The mailbagbox is a feisty one this week.

54:57 - OCB can't solve the Inter Miami II riddle, while the Lions get another chance to remember how to score goals when Atlanta visits on Saturday.

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We look back at our score predictions to see if we came close, discuss the game's big talking points, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

The mailbagbox asks about Orlando being a defensive-minded team now, our first dates, David Brekalo at left back, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB became the first team to score on New England Revolution II last week, as Shak Mohammed's late goal lifted the Young Lions to a 1-0 home victory. The reserve team is off to a strong start, but may be shorthanded Tuesday night against Inter Miami after several OCB players took part in the Generation Adidas Cup group stage from Saturday through Monday.

Orlando City is right back on the road for its fifth away match in seven games Saturday night when the Lions visit Stade Saputo to face CF Montreal. We look at the series history, provide our key matchups to the game, and try our hand at making our final score predictions for the match.

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Here’s how No. 473 went down:

0:15 – The Lions are shut out for the second straight week but also shut out the opponent for the second weekend in a row. You have to take the good with the bad, I guess.

17:02– The mailbagbox is full, and OCB is playing well at home.

37:14 - Orlando City takes off to the Great White North looking for a beauty way to go as the Lions visit Montreal.

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We look back at our score predictions, discuss the tactics and the few chances the two sides managed to create, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

The mailbagbox asks about our thoughts on Guiness and dark beers, personnel strategies for the U.S. Open Cup, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB was shorthanded when the Young Lions visited Chattanooga FC on Saturday night. Several regulars were in Philly with the first team, and the Young Lions weren't able to overcome that in a 2-0 road loss — the team's first of the season.

Orlando City returns home after two weeks away and the New York Red Bulls will be the guests Saturday afternoon. The Lions will complete their season series with the Red Bulls and will need to find their precision in the final third to get a win over a goal-stingy New York side. We provide our key matchups and final score predictions for the match.

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Here’s how No. 472 went down:

0:15 – The Lions got their first shutout and also got shut out for the first time.

17:38– The mailbagbox beckons, and OCB suffers its first defeat.

36:48 - Orlando City returns home to close out the regular-season series against the Red Bulls.

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We look back at our score predictions, discuss the critical plays and players in the game, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

The mailbagbox asks about Rafael Santos and Ivan Angulo, whether David Brekalo has a future at left back, whether one of our writers will become a podcast guest, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB has a trip to face Chattanooga FC Saturday night, which is a shame, because the Young Lions will start their game just 30 minutes before the MLS side kicks off. We look briefly at the matchup.

Orlando City will head north to wrap up the regular-season series against the Philadelphia Union on Saturday. The Lions will need to continue to tighten up the defense against one of the league's most dangerous attacks so far in 2025. The Union will be eager to get back on track after suffering a loss to Miami. We look at the history of the series, select our key matchups in the game, and make our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 471 went down:

0:15 – The Lions fall behind on a goal that looked offside, but drew a penalty late and then won the game on a crazy free kick blunder.

31:42– The mailbagbox is intrigued by Brekalo at left back.

50:03 - OCB heads to Chattanooga, while the senior squad seeks revenge in Philadelphia.

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We look back at a hard-fought road draw, check our score predictions to see how we measured up, and make our selections for Man of the Match. We also discuss Gustavo Caraballo's new Homegrown Player contract.

The mailbagbox asks about Orlando playing a three-man back line late in New Jersey, billboards, former Lion Josue Colman, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB remained unbeaten with a 2-2 draw at home against Atlanta United 2. Javier Otero got the start, but he could do nothing about either Atlanta goal. However, he stopped a penalty in the postgame shootout, which helped the Young Lions claim an extra point in the standings. We discuss OCB's second game of the season-opening homestand.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday night's matchup between Orlando City and D.C. United. The Lions may have to rely on Otero as Pedro Gallese figures to be with the Peruvian Men's National Team over the weekend. Is the Homegrown goalkeeper ready to face the aerial prowess of Christian Benteke? Can the Lions become the first team to hand D.C. a loss in 2025? We break down the tale of the tape, select our key matchups, and make our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 469 went down:

0:15 – The Lions continue to score goals, but they also continue to concede too many of them.

24:40 – The mailbagbox is teeming with questions this week.

46:18 - OCB remains unbeaten on the young season and we preview the matchup with D.C. United.

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We look back at the first road loss of the season, check back on our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

The mailbagbox has us naming and guessing favorite players, predicting an over/under on how many Lions will play at least five minutes in 2025, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB opened the season by salvaging the weekend for the organization with a 2-1 win over Columbus Crew 2 at home. Dyson Clapier and Zakaria Taifi were the offensive stars, and Carlos Mercado made several good saves to protect the lead as the Young Lions held on at the end. We look back at the win and look forward to OCB's meeting with Atlanta on Sunday.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday afternoon, as the Lions return to the New York metropolitan area to face the Red Bulls in New Jersey. Orlando City will have to be sharp defensively against a team that leaves small margins with one of the best defenses in MLS. The Lions haven't scored a lot of goals against New York recently, so fixing the mistakes at the back is more vital than ever. We make our predictions and discuss our key matchups.

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Here’s how No. 468 went down:

0:15 – The Lions did not continue scoring lots of goals but did continue to concede them.

18:37 – The mailbagbox is full this week with both regular questions and requests for blind guesses.

34:42 - OCB opened the season with a victory over Crew 2 an

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We look back on a night of goal scoring by committee that featured big contributions on the offensive end from players who primarily defend. We check back on last week's score predictions, discuss the key plays in the match, and make our selections for Man of the Match. Oh, and two Lions ended up on the MLS Team of the Matchday.

The mailbagbox wants us to guess which jersey numbers one of our colleagues did not see in the stands on Saturday, if we saw this performance from Alex Freeman coming, whether the Lions are too complacent in the transfer market, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

OCB kicks off its 2025 MLS NEXT Pro season this weekend, and we discussed how little we know about the roster at this point. However, we tell you who will likely play more (and fewer) minutes with OCB this year as opposed to in 2024.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday night's trip to Yankee Stadium to play New York City FC. The Pigeons lost their best player (much like Orlando City) this off-season, and they're off to a poor start to the season, but they are always dangerous on the smaller field at home, where the Lions have rarely taken points. We look at the series history, provide our key matchups, and make our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 467 went down:

0:15 – The Lions bounced back from the Philly loss by putting four on the board in a win against Toronto.

26:33 – The mailbagbox is full this week with both regular questions and requests for blind guesses.

56:43 - OCB prepares for the season opener and our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City at NYCFC on Saturday.

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After that, we get into the nitty and also the gritty of Orlando's loss to Philadelphia on opening night. Perhaps the only memorable thing will be the start to Marco Pasalic's career in purple. The Croatian's brace was a welcome bright spot on an otherwise forgettable night. We also look back at our score predictions, which were well below the total of goals scored on Saturday

The mailbagbox wants to know if we've changed our minds about our preseason thoughts after seeing the team play on Saturday and whether Dagur Dan Thorhallsson is ready for a move back to the midfield with the continued emergence of Alex Freeman. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday night's matchup against Toronto FC. There are a lot of new faces on the Reds and both teams will be going for their first win of the season. We take a brief look at the Toronto roster, provide our key matchups, and make our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 466 went down:

0:15 – The Lions played well as a team when they weren't making horrible individual mistakes in their own end. It was costly.

27:06 – The mailbagbox wants to know if our preseason opinions have changed yet.

38:15 - Our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City vs. Toronto FC on Saturday.

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First-round 2025 SuperDraft pick Joran Gerbet joined us to discuss his arrival in Orlando, what it's like going from college to pro soccer, how he fits into what Oscar Pareja's system works, and much more. Big thanks to Joran for taking time out of his opening night preparations to spend some time with us, and we can't wait to see what his goal celebrations are like.

The mailbagbox wants to know about international slots, what we'd wear on the bench if we were coaching the Lions, if David Brekalo can displace Rodrigo Schlegel, and much more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday night's opener against the Philadelphia Union. Philly may have missed the playoffs, but the Union still have some terrific (and dangerous) offensive weapons. Orlando City will need to be on point defensively to start the season off right. We offer up our key matchups and score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 465 went down:

0:15 – A few news items regarding Orlando City since our last show a few days ago.

10:11 - Joran Gerbet jumps on with us to discuss the adjustment from college soccer to MLS.

25:51 – The mailbagbox is pretty full for there only being a few days between shows.

51:12 - Our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City's opener vs. the Philadelphia Union.

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OCB has a pair of new academy signings for the 2025 season (and beyond), as Bernardo Rhein and Justin Ellis have inked MLS NEXT Pro contracts. Both should feature quite a bit more in 2025 with the Young Lions than they did in 2024 as they develop their game.

Speaking of signing, draft pick Joran Gerbet became an official member of the team on Monday. We talk about the Clemson product's preseason and how he fits into Orlando City's plans.

There were reports Monday (which may even be official by the time this post drops) that Nico Lodeiro and Michael Halliday are both heading to the Houston Dynamo, where they will be reunited with Junior Urso. Lodeiro is an expensive player who was in the final year of his deal, while Halliday has dropped on the depth chart and must find somewhere to get more minutes. We break it down.

The mailbagbox wants to know what soccer person we'd like to have a beer with and which Orlando City player the Lions can least afford to lose. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we handed Lionel Messi a new nickname, talked about the weird Messi love that doesn't quite translate to Inter Miami fandom, and broke down Friday's preseason Tropic Thunder rivalry match at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

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Here’s how No. 464 went down:

0:15 – We've got lots of news and reports from the last week to discuss as well as Orlando City's new Perfect Storm home kit.

16:20 - The mailbagbox beckons and we can only heed it.

26:29 – All the relevant happenings from the Lions and the Herons Friday in Tampa.

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We discuss Thomas Williams' new contract and the signings of Marco Pasalic and Eduard Atuesta and what they mean for the team. We also break down what Atuesta's arrival means in terms of Orlando City's midfield and the prospects of Wilder Cartagena playing before the end of the 2025 season.

The mailbagbox is fixated once again on Apple TV+ shows and which ones we recommend. The short answer is that we recommend all the ones we've seen so far, but you can find some titles in this episode. We also got asked about some things that are a bit out of date now, but did that stop us from answering? Of course not. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we broke down Orlando City's lack of scoring despite some strong play in the home friendlies against Atletico Mineiro and CF Montreal. With a little more time, Pasalic may be able to provide some offense, but the Lions also need Ramiro Enrique and Luis Muriel on the pitch.

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Here’s how No. 463 went down:

0:15 – Since our last show, the Lions released their preseason schedule and made a few signings.

28:14 - It's a robust mailbagbox after three weeks off.

53:02 – The two open preseason friendlies each featured a serious-looking injury and saw the Lions look good doing everything except scoring goals.

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However, the Lions did add a winger, although it's not necessarily the guy who will immediately replace Torres. Nicolas Rodriguez is a promising U22 Initiative arrival from Colombia who has the upside to develop into that type of player. Whether he plays a lot or even starts in 2025 remains to be seen.

We also discuss what the reported possible transfer of Cesar Araujo would mean for the Lions as we are now just weeks away from the start of the regular season. It's not too late to get something done to help this team improve. It only feels that way.

This mailbagbox for this episode asked about workout songs, our experiences with cold, some of our favorite Apple TV shows, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we discussed a pair of friendlies at Inter&Co Stadium this week, including the USMNT hosting Costa Rica and Orlando City playing Atletico Mineiro in the FC Series. We should have reports on both matches for you at The Mane Land. And we end the show with news we didn't want to discuss — the departure of Homegrown goalkeeper Mason Stajduhar to Real Salt Lake.

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Here’s how No. 462 went down:

0:15 – The Lions had one arrival to go along with the departures and we discuss the holes in the roster.

30:01 - The first mailbagbox of 2025!

49:16 – Upcoming friendlies in Orlando for the USMNT and Orlando City as well as another player departure we didn't want to talk about.

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There are multiple ways the team can address the situation, but the front office has never been in a position where it's had an opportunity to stack the team with quality starters and depth.

This week's mailbagbox asked which current Lion needs to step up most, which of our favorite current and former EPL teams' players we'd like to see playing for Orlando, and what we like to eat at Christmas. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we discussed Major League Soccer not broadcasting or streaming the 2025 SuperDraft and the players Orlando City selected Friday afternoon. We're not huge fans of the draft not being broadcast in some form, and it suggests the event may not have much more of a future. Orlando picked up four players out of college — two from the same school — and every position group except goalkeeper was impacted. Those who sign are likely to spend most of 2025 with OCB.

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Here’s how No. 461 went down:

0:15 – The Torres transfer is official and Orlando City has some cash to splash.

17:54 - The mailbagbox wants presents in the form of answers to our listeners' questions.

37:28 – An overview of the lack of an MLS SuperDraft broadcast and Orlando City's 2025 picks.

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In also-bad news, we chatted about Duncan McGuire's shoulder surgery and the recovery time needed not only from the procedure itself, but also the requisite time to regain his match fitness. McGuire is going to be unavailable for a while, and we think the club needs to add a striker to start the season as either the starter or someone who can at least push Ramiro Enrique and provide a different look up top.

There's even more bad news to talk about, as the Lions lost MLS U22 Initiative midfielder Heine Gikling Bruseth before he'd even played a game for Orlando City. It may have been a gamble to leave him unprotected — or maybe it was intentional —and it could have been necessary due to contract language and greater needs with those 12 protected spots in the MLS Expansion Draft. Either way, Bruseth is gone after doing not much more than training with the Lions and warming up on a few match days.

In better news, the Lions re-signed Kyle Smith to a one-year deal, and we are here for it. Speaking of signings, the club added a Homegrown Player, signing OCB midfielder Colin Guske to the first team. We discuss Guske's game a bit, then transition into OCB's season-ending roster status update. There were 10 players on MLS NEXT Pro contracts in 2024. One of them was Guske, six are out of contract (but some could return), and three are still under contract.

This week's mailbagbox asked a pretty good "what if" question, sought our thoughts on MLS free agents, wondered if Felipe is coaching material, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

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Here’s how No. 460 went down:

0:15 – We break down the Torres transfer saga and discuss what McGuire's surgery recovery means for 2025.

16:02 - Losing Bruseth, Smith's return, a new Homegrown Player, and OCB contract statuses.

32:27 – Something we love as much as the mailbagbox is finding loopholes to make some of the questions easier to answer.

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We open the show with an MLS NEXT scoreboard check and it turns out the Orlando City SC Development Academy is doing just fine.

After that, we bid former OCSC captain Nani an extremely enjoyable retirement. The flashy and fiery Portuguese winger has called it a career and left an indelible mark on the city of Orlando in his couple of years with the Lions. We also debate whether he could end up in Orlando City's ring of honor at Inter&Co Stadium.

This week's mailbagbox asked about stuff Alexi Lalas said and what kinds of things we prefer to put off until later. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we address some breaking news (as we recorded) that Orlando City and Palmeiras had reached an agreement on a transfer that would send Facundo Torres to Brazil. The report from Tom Bogert at the time mentioned the deal was contingent on Torres reaching an agreement with the club, and we debated how the deal makes sense (or doesn't) for the Uruguayan winger.

That was the perfect segue into our annual stays/goes segment, in which we go through the Orlando City roster to figure out which Lions will still be on the team next year. As mentioned, the roster decisions release kind of makes things clear, but there's a lot that can happen in an off-season, and if a domino falls (say...the transfer of the team's leading offensive weapon), it could change the math. The MLS Expansion Draft also could throw a wrench into the works.

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Here’s how No. 459 went down:

0:15 – Some Orlando City academy scores and Nani's retirement.

12:53 - Our mailbagbox is light but mighty.

31:02 – Addressing the breaking news report that a transfer might be in place to send Facundo Torres to Brazil and our annual walk through the Orlando City roster.

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We looked back at the match, checked in on our score predictions, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox asked about New York's tactics, and it also had a whole lot of trivia questions for us. We did pretty well overall, I think, but trivia isn't out forte. Still, it was a lot of fun to try to figure things out with logic, sometimes successfully and often less so. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

That is a wrap on the "normal" season schedule for the PawedCast, but we'll be back next week to weigh in on any OCSC news and take our annual stays/goes walk through the roster. After next week, we'll be playing it by ear, but you'll get at least one show a month in the off-season (Who are we kidding? It'll probably be more than that.) Keep sending us your questions and we look forward to maybe getting a little more rest for the next few weeks.

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Here’s how No. 458 went down:

0:15 – We hates John Tolkin forever! Also, hey...cover the back post, you guys.

18:54 – Our mailbagbox asks us about kicking the ball out of play and te

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We looked back at our score predictions, which Dave got exactly right, and made our selections for Man of the Match. In a defensive battle, we both went with defenders.

This week's mailbagbox, asks us whether soccer teams will adopt a revolutionary new substitution pattern, how much possession the New York Red Bulls will have on Saturday, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After we finished answering the mail we looked ahead to the Lions' upcoming battle with the New York Red Bulls, presenting the series history, looking at the players to watch, and making our picks for the game's key matchups, before finally trying to predict the final score.

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Here’s how No. 457 went down:

0:15 – It wasn't a pretty game to watch, but the outcome was beautiful as Orlando City ousted Atlanta United in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

18:54 – Our mailbagbox consists of questions that are easy to answer and ones that are not as easy.

40:15 – Orlando's reward for beating a team it failed to beat in the regular season is a conference final matchup with another team it failed to beat in the regular season.

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Orlando City comes out of the international break with their most troublesome rival standing between the Lions and a spot in the Eastern Conference final. The Lions will host Atlanta United Sunday in the most meaningful matchup between the clubs to date, having been swept in the season series and only having four victories all-time in the series.

Nevertheless, Orlando City must play the team that is on the schedule next, and it's sure to be a feisty battle.

Without a game to recap, we jump right into this week's mailbagbox, which asks us a difficult question about our playoff preference and offers up another walkout song possibility we didn't come up with last week. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After we finished going through our mail, we dove into the matchup with Atlanta United, giving the series history, the tale of the tape, and our key matchups and predictions for the match. It was a shorter show than usual, but if the Lions get through to the conference final, you're sure to get a longer one next week.

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Here’s how No. 456 went down:

0:45 – It's a rarity as we open with the mailbagbox!

14:58 – Atlanta United stands in the way and there could hardly be a more difficult opponent (historically speaking) for the Lions to face. Nevertheless, they must do so, and they must find a way to win in order to host the conference final. 

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We break down the shootout win vs. Charlotte, check our score predictions from the last show, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox asked us about the growth of Major League Soccer and how high it might reach, penalty shootouts, reactions to penalties, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

With the international break looming, we don't have a preview for you this week, but we can do that next week as we brace for Atlanta.

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Here’s how No. 455 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City had a hard time scoring against Charlotte despite a good performance, but the Lions still managed to find a way to claw back into the game and win in penalties.

34:04 – The mailbagbox is full, and as we answer our list

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We break down the shootout loss at Charlotte, check our score predictions from the last show, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox asked us about Orlando's tentative approach, officiating, our favorite shows from the 1980s, and driving a stick. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked ahead to Orlando City's Game 3 matchup with Charlotte FC Saturday. Charlotte is still hard to score on, and the Lions still have to try to do it. We tried to predict the final score, too, even though that's always a crapshoot.

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Here’s how No. 454 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City played poorly and still came within inches of winning in stoppage time before falling apart in penalties.

18:22 – The mailbagbox looks for meaning after a scoreless draw and poor shootout performance.

49:43– The Lions will host...[/checks notes]...Charlotte FC. Again.

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We break down the win over Charlotte, check our score predictions from the last show, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox asked us about the MLS playoff format, a possible change to the MLS season schedule, family vacation spots, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked ahead to Orlando City's Game 2 meeting with Charlotte FC coming up on Friday. Nothing has changed our minds about this series so far, so we provided our key matchups and score predictions for the second match as the series shifts to North Carolina.

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Here’s how No. 453 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City was the better team in Game 1.

20:57 – The mailbagbox asks several questions and we get a review that doesn't match the star rating. At all.

44:58– The Lions head to Charlotte for Game 2 in their best-of-three series.

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We didn't enjoy talking about this game at all, but we discussed all the key talking points, and if you're wondering about our predictions, it didn't even occur to us to check them until almost the end of the show. We did, however, make our unanimous decision for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox asked us about Don Garber and which OCB iron man might someday be one for the MLS squad. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked back at OCB's road playoff game at Chicago Fire II. The Young Lions continue to look for their first-ever postseason win after a 1-1 draw and a 5-4 penalty shootout loss. A bad decision by a center back going forward gave the hosts their only goal and ultimately contributed to the end of OCB's 2024 season.

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando City's series with Charlotte FC, giving you the tale of the tape. The bottom line is the North Carolina-based side is great defensively, so Orlando will need to find its shooting boots to survive a best-of-three series. We provided our key matchups and score predictions for Sunday's opener in Orlando.

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Here’s how No. 452 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City was not good and neither was video review on Saturday.

27:27 – The mailbagbox asks about stuff and we provide answers.

37:33– OCB is out of the playoffs after another shootout loss and we preview the senior Lions against Charlotte in the MLS postseason.

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The Young Lions are headed north to the Windy City to take on Chicago Fire FC II on Sunday as the MLS NEXT Pro postseason gets underway. Orlando got the better of the Fire's developmental squad recently in the only meeting of the season between the teams. Chicago, however, is a much better home team and that previous meeting was in Kissimmee. The Young Lions will need a heroic road effort to claim the club's first-ever playoff win.

This episode's mailbagbox asked us about Oscar Pareja's toughest choice for Saturday's starting XI and a trivia question about the Lion with the fewest minutes this season. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we busted out our Atlanta hate and tried to figure out what might happen on Decision Day. Can the Lions get the better of a team that has been a tremendous pain in their collective rear ends and send them packing into the off-season? We preview the game, choose our key matchups, and make our final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 451 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City players' national teams faced off, the new USMNT coach debuts, and OCB is set to head to Chicago for its postseason opener.

12:21 – The mailbagbox gives us a regular question and a trivia question.

27:44– The Lions have a chance to solidify a top-four spot in the standings and kill off Atlanta's season. Our preview.

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We broke down the Lions' road victory, looked back at our score predictions from last week, and made our selections for Man of the Match (which were unanimous).

This episode's mailbagbox proposed a donation for the site based on how well we answered a trivia question. Let's just say we didn't get the top prize. We also answered a spooky season-themed question. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we discussed OCB's Sunday afternoon matchup with FC Cincinnati 2. The scoreline was the same one the senior teams finished with, but this time Orlando was not on the good side of it. It wasn't a good outing by the Young Lions, who gave up two early goals and could never find their footing, even though they were better in the second half. As a result, OCB will travel to Chicago Fire II in the playoffs rather than hosting a team of its choosing.

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Here’s how No. 450 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City took care of business Saturday night but Nashville offered no help against NYCFC.

19:47 – The mailbagbox offers us money for answering a trivia question in three tries. That's new.

39:52– The Young Lions also played at Cincinnati but it was a poor performance and as a result they missed out on a postseason home game.

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We broke down the win over the Union, looked back at our score predictions from our last show, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox asked us about possible new lineups and TV theme songs. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we reminded everyone that OCB finishes the regular season on the road Sunday and the Young Lions would select their playoff opponents in the first round if they manage to finish where they're currently sitting. The top three finishers in each conference pick their first-round opponent and whoever is left from the bottom four will play the fourth-place team. It's a big match Sunday and we could see a few senior Lions make an appearance.

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando City's road game against FC Cincinnati on Saturday. The Lions will need to deal with a team trying to turn around recent results as the postseason approaches. Cincy has some bright stars that the Lions will need to extinguish with solid defense and Orlando won't have Duncan McGuire, who will serve a suspension for yellow card accumulation. We provide our key matchups and score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 449 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City wasted some opportunities against the Union but still got the job done, thanks in large part to Luis Muriel giving his teammates layups.

24:52 – The mailbagbox has visuals that our listeners can't see, but we can describe them.

40:50– The Young Lions play for the right to pick their playoff opponent and the senior Lions have a key matchup at FC Cincinnati.

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We broke down the win, looked back at our score predictions from last week, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox asked us to choose from three things that were equally great and wanted to know what it's like to cover an Orlando City game. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked ahead to an important game for OCB on the road Sunday against FC Cincinnati 2. The Young Lions could finish anywhere from third to eighth in the Eastern Conference on Sunday, but a strong game could see OCB host a playoff game. A poor outing could mean another difficult trip north for the Young Lions in the postseason.

Finally, we looked ahead to Wednesday's home match against the Philadelphia Union. The Lions are in a position to go for a rare season sweep of the Union, who can put the ball in the net with the best of them. Orlando will need to stay organized and composed defensively and look for opportunities to strike. We provide our key matchups and score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 448 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City dominated Dallas, even if things got a little dicey near the end.

27:46 – The mailbagbox calls and OCB hits the road looking for three more points.

51:46– The Lions return home to host the Union Wednesday. Our previe

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We also looked back at our score predictions, which were quite wrong, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox had a trivia question and then asked for our recipe ideas using a very odd special ingredient. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we broke down OCB's playoff-clinching home win over Chicago Fire II at home on Monday night, which is why this podcast is a day later than usual. The Young Lions came up big in the second half, putting three balls in the net to take care of Chicago and solidify a spot in the postseason. The Young Lions have the weekend off to prepare for next week's regular-season finale at Cincinnati.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday night's road match against Oscar Pareja's former team. FC Dallas is pretty good for a team currently below the playoff line, and it won't be easy for Orlando City to get a result in Frisco, TX. It's something the Lions have never done. We provide our key matchups and score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 447 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City lost a shutout streak and a winning streak in a crazy game in Ohio.

23:49 – OCB clinches a playoff spot and we check the mailbagbox for listener questions.

45:35– The Lions head to Oscar Pareja's old stomping grounds in Dallas.

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We looked back at our score predictions (both getting the right result without picking the correct score) and made our selections for Man of the Match. We also tell you which Lion made the MLS Team of the Matchday.

This episode's mailbagbox was brief and touched on the subject of fixture congestion in Major League Soccer and what (if anything) we would do about it. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we look ahead to OCB's big match on Monday against Chicago Fire II, an important game for both sides in the tight Eastern Conference playoff race in MLS NEXT Pro. We provide the tale of the tape as the Young Lions look to lock down a second consecutive playoff appearance and wonder if Alex Freeman can keep his hot streak going.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday's matchup on the road against the Columbus Crew. The Crew will be a tough nut to crack, so the Lions will need to continue their excellent form to get a result against the league's stingiest defense while trying to keep Cucho Hernandez and Diego Rossi quiet. We provide our key matchups and make our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 446 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City made it three straight shutout victories at home with a 2-0 win over Charlotte.

29:47 – Our mailbagbox asks about the MLS schedule.

36:49– OCB will host Chicago in a pivotal game and the Lions head to Columbus.

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We forgot to check our score predictions during the opening segment, but we do get there eventually. We did not, however, forget to make our selections for Man of the Match, an issue in which we were slightly divided, although neither was a more correct choice than the other.

OCB also defeated New England via shutout this week and we discuss Alex Freeman being on fire for the Young Lions, Jack Lynn adding another MLS NEXT Pro goal to his resume, and a second shutout of the Revs this weekend.

This episode's mailbagbox asks us about Orlando City players who play alike, Heine Gikling Bruseth, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we look ahead to Charlotte FC, a team that is difficult to score against and one that has given Orlando City an inordinate amount of trouble in its brief time in Major League Soccer. As always, we provide our key matchups and score predictions for the game.

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Here’s how No. 445 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City picked up its second consecutive 3-0 win at home and got its first season sweep of the Revs.

18:55 – OCB also beat New England this weekend and we discuss it before moving on to the mailbagbox.

37:15– Charlotte visits on Wednesday. We get you prepared.

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This episode's mailbagbox is all over the map, with questions about cars, holiday decorations, and Orlando City goal-scoring records. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we touch on Mauricio Pochettino's official hiring as the USMNT head coach. We then dive into a preview of Orlando City's match against the New England Revolution at home on Saturday. We give you the tale of the tape, discuss the history of the series, provide our key matchups, and make our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 444 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City B is in playoff contention after an important road win over Crown Legacy, but three big regular-season games loom.

18:00 – The mailbagbox is eclectic this week.

43:00– Orlando City hosts New England Saturday and we've got your preview.

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We break down the victory, look back at our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox once again pits Ramiro Enrique against Duncan McGuire and asks for some fatherly advice. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we dove into OCB's 2-1 home win over Huntsville City FC. It was a vital win for the Young Lions to stay in the playoff hunt with the regular season winding down. The Young Lions made things tough on themselves but they were able to get the result and jump above the playoff line — for now, anyway — with a crucial six-pointer coming up on the road this weekend.

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Here’s how No. 443 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City bounced back from a tough 3-0 loss in Sporting Kansas City by a not-as-tough 3-0 win at home against Nashville.

17:30 – The mailbagbox calls and we must answer.

25:58 – The Young Lions got the job done but made

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OCB, however, is starting to get going. The Young Lions beat on Atlanta United 2 Friday night to the tune of 4-1. It was another big night for Yutaro Tsukada, who posted a goal and an assist for the second consecutive game, before hopping on a plane and logging some first-team minutes Saturday night. Joining Tsukada on the scoresheet was Imanol Almaguer, Luca Petrasso, and Shak Mohammed. It was a comprehensive victory by Manuel Goldberg's side and it gave us something a bit happier to discuss.

This episode's mailbagbox asks us about a song by the Electric Light Orchestra, a possible new season of Ted Lasso, Orlando City's stadium sponsor, and whether a shakeup is coming to Orlando City's starting lineup after the Lions only scored one goal in their last three games. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked ahead to Saturday's showdown at home against Nashville SC. The Lions have had the better of this rivalry over the last couple of years, but we're expecting a tight, low-scoring game. We provide our key matchups and our score predictions for Saturday night.

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Here’s how No. 442 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City got pounded in Kansas City but the Young Lions of OCB did the pounding at Atlanta United 2.

24:19 – The mailbagbox is musical this week.

42:45 – Our preview, key matchups, and score predictions for the Lions vs. Nashville.

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The Young Lions of OCB found their scoring boots and got a big game from Tsukada, who was no doubt celebrating his new contract with the first team. Yutaro provided a goal and an assist as OCB defeated New York City FC II 3-1 in a chippy match that saw a lot of cards fly. Jhon Solis and Shak Mohammed scored the other goals for the Young Lions, who are still in the playoff race but face an important test tonight on the road at Atlanta United 2.

This episode's mailbagbox asks us which center back pairing we expect for Saturday's Orlando City match and which pairing we'd play if we made the decisions. There was also a question about Dagur Dan Thorhallsson's place on Iceland's national team. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked ahead to the Lions' trip to Kansas City Saturday night. Sporting has been bad this season but recently has had a great run of form at home. Children's Mercy Park is a difficult place to play and Orlando will need to find some goals to get back to the form it had prior to Leagues Cup. We provide our key matchups and score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 441 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City's strange transfer window included three signings but only one player new to the team. Plus, an OCB win at home.

25:06 – The mailbagbox is concerned about various players on Orlando City's back line.

39:07 – Key matchups and predictions for the Lions at Sporting Kansas City.

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We break down some of the near misses (and outright misses) and the shootout, look back at our score predictions (hey, it's perfectly fine if you hate on Dave for breathing a shootout loss into existence), and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox asks us about Orlando City yellow cards and what the bench will look like when the regular season resumes. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked back at Sunday's OCB match against Crown Legacy. The Young Lions tried to emulate the first team by playing to a scoreless home draw and then losing the shootout. But this was a regular-season contest against a team the Young Lions are chasing in the playoff race. We did not like the outcome, nor did we enjoy Thomas Williams getting sent off. We especially disliked the penalties OCB failed to score. Hopefully things will be better this weekend when the Young Lions host NYCFC II.

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Here’s how No. 440 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City didn't lose but nonetheless is done in the 2024 Leagues Cup. We discuss why.

22:28 – The mailbagbox is curious about the Orlando City bench and trivia.

35:10 – OCB fails to get a much-needed home win and time is quickly running out on a playoff run.

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Since we already discussed Orlando City's match last weekend against Atletico San Luis, we focused the first part of this episode on internet rumors. The Lions have been linked with Norwegian youth international midfielder Heine Gikling Bruseth, who is currently with Kristiansund BK in Norway's top flight. This might be an MLS U22 Initiative signing, it may not happen at all, or it could be something in between. We discuss the position and the possible upside of the move. Orlando is also rumored to be signing OCB winger Yutaro Tsukada to a first-team deal for the 2025 season with a couple of option years. That's possible, but the Lions have no shortage of first-team wing players, so this could be a matter of liking what the club sees in Tsukada's development and playing a waiting game to see if he can continue his upward trajectory.

Following our internet rumors discussion, we look ahead to OCB's match Sunday at home against Crown Legacy. This is a proverbial six-point game, and the Young Lions can't afford to drop points at home against teams that they're chasing in the playoff race. It'll be interesting to see what the lineup looks like and how OCB handles the pressure situation.

This episode's mailbagbox, presented by WJ Dog Treats, asks us about Michael Halliday's status and which Lions we enjoyed during the club's USL days. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked ahead to tonight's matchup between Orlando City and Liga MX side Cruz Azul. It's a tough second-place team for the Lions to have drawn, and speaking of draws, Cruz Azul has two of them so far in this competition, losing the penalty shootout to Charlotte, but besting the Philadelphia Union from the spot. We provide our key matchups and score predictions for what is sure to be a nervy match.

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Here’s how No. 439 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City may or may not sign a young central midfielder and/or a winger that plays for its reserve side. Plus, OCB has a big match this weekend.

15:37 – The mailbagbox (presented by WJ Dog Treats) asks about an injured fullback and gets nostalgiac for the pre-MLS days.

30:25 – A battle awaits against Cruz Azul. We preview it.

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Orlando City closed out group play in Leagues Cup action on a wet Sunday night against Liga MX side Atletico San Luis. Despite going down a player within the first half hour, the Lions struck first and held on for dear life behind the goalkeeping of Pedro Gallese to earn a 1-1 draw. Orlando then won the ensuing penalty shootout 5-4 to claim a second point. It was more than sufficient to secure first place in the group and a date with Cruz Azul on Friday (we'll discuss that more on our next episode later in the week).

We check back on our score predictions, and one of us nailed the shootout score if not the final score. We discuss the key plays in the match and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox, presented by WJ Dog Treats, asks us about Duncan McGuire vs. Ramiro Enrique and which superhero movies folks should start with if they want to get into them more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we discussed OCB's 2-1 road win at Carolina Core. The Young Lions built a lead, went down a player, and then held on to snap an eight-game winless stretch. With players sent off, well-worked goals, a weird "no more" referee warning of persistent infringement, and a lot of chaos, it was vintage "drunk OCB," and we're here for it.

Finally, we discuss the United States getting pummeled by Morocco on Nathan Harriel's very bad day (he wasn't the only one, but...wow).

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Here’s how No. 438 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City got a draw that felt like a win in its Leagues Cup group stage finale, and winning the shootout helped make it feel that way.

22:17 – It's mailbagbox time, and folks really want our opinions on superhero movies.

41:18 – OCB finally wins! And being the Young Lions, they made it as difficult on themselves as they could. Plus, Olympics stuff.

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This episode's mailbagbox, presented by WJ Dog Treats, asks us to rank the Eastern Conference teams by how much we dislike them and wants to know about Marvel movies and about clarifying something from our members-only newsletter (which you could get by subscribing here). Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we discussed OCB's trip to face Carolina Core on the road. The teams have met twice previously — both in Kissimmee — and the Young Lions have drawn and lost those matches. Will the third time be a charm and finally end this eight-match winless skid? We'll find out on Saturday.

Finally, we discuss the United States getting through group play and making the knockout stage at the Olympics. The Yanks, including Orlando City's Duncan McGuire, face Morocco...well, starting an hour before this post dropped.

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Here’s how No. 437 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City is not only in a great position to advance in Leagues Cup, but a fantastic spot to win the group.

10:20 – The mailbagbox asks about which teams we don't like in the Eastern Conference, superhero movies, and more.

34:50 – OCB is off to face Carolina Core for the third time and the United States men advance to the knockouts in Olympic soccer for the first time in a couple of decades.

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Orlando City got its 2024 Leagues Cup campaign off to a smoking hot start, with a 4-1 win Friday against CF Montreal. Four different Lions scored, with Ramiro Enrique and Facundo Torres assisting on each other's goals and Martin Ojeda stretching his streak of games with a goal contribution to seven. It was a far cry from the two draws the Lions had against Montreal in the regular season. Orlando now sits in a good spot to advance to the knockouts with a match against Liga MX side San Luis looming on Sunday.

We break down Orlando City's lopsided home win over Montreal, check on our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This episode's mailbagbox, presented by WJ Dog Treats, asks who would medal if Orlando City players participated in a decathlon. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we discussed OCB's road loss at Chattanooga FC. It wasn't a good performance despite a strong side that included the likes of Jack Lynn and Luca Petrasso. After discussing OCB, we looked at the U.S. victory over New Zealand in the Olympics and discussed how Duncan McGuire isn't getting the ball in scoring positions. Hopefully that will change against Guinea today.

Finally, we completely blanked on the fact that we've got another show to record on Thursday and provided our key matchups and score predictions for Sunday's match against San Luis. That's OK, we will discuss it in more depth in our second show this week after we have a chance to see the Liga MX side in action against CF Montreal tonight.

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Here’s how No. 436 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City is back to scoring goals with a Leagues Cup drubbing of Montreal that included a Pedro Gallese save on Josef Martinez penalty kick.

19:07 – The mailbagbox is topical, referencing the Olympics.

31:48 – OCB still can't win, the U.S. is in a decent spot in the Olympics after clobbering New Zealand, and our inexplicable dive into Sunday's upcoming m

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We break down a defensive battle that took the Lions a while to figure out, look back at our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox asks about the rules of the game, squad rotation for Leagues Cup, Ivan Angulo's season, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we discussed OCB's road draw at New York Red Bulls II (by the same 1-1 score) and another postgame penalty shootout loss. We also looked at the U.S. Olympic schedule coming up this week for Duncan McGuire and the U-23 USMNT.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday's Leagues Cup opener for Orlando City. CF Montreal comes to town Friday night and there's no telling what might happen in terms of lineups used, tactical approaches, etc. We do our best to look ahead.

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Here’s how No. 435 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City loses a winning streak but continues an unbeaten run.

19:53 – The mailbagbox has some good (and difficult) queries this week.

35:46 – OCB notches a 1-1 draw of its own, the U.S. Olympic schedule is about to begin, and we preview CF Montreal in the Leagues Cup.

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We spent some time breaking down the Lions' latest win in Music City (that's three straight wins there and five consecutive results in Tennessee in the regular season). We discussed the critical plays and players, looked back at our score predictions, and made our selections for Man of the Match (we were split this week).

There was player news to discuss as well, with Dagur Dan Thorhallsson signing a new contract to extend his stay in the City Beautiful. This was a good move by Orlando City, and we talked about why.

This week's mailbagbox asks about liquids and international clubs coming to the U.S. to play. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we shared some breaking news — well...it was breaking at the time we discussed it — as Benji Michel was reportedly headed to Real Salt Lake per Tom Bogert. It'll be good to have Benji stateside again.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday's rematch between the Lions and New York City FC. The Pigeons have been a bit of a pain over the years, especially on their baseball diamond, but Orlando City has home history on its side on this one. With NYCFC's road record and Orlando's home record both being poor, it's anyone's guess how this will go. In fact, it's our guess, because we included our key matchups and score predictions with our preview.

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Here’s how No. 434 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City kept the shutout magic going against the team from Tennessee.

20:30 – The mailbagbox has some good (and difficult) queries this week.

30:50 – Breaking Benji Michel news and our key matchup

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We break down the Lions' 3-1 win over the Revolution, look back at our score predictions, and make our picks for Man of the Match. It was, as you might expect, unanimous.

OCB was at home this weekend, but the Young Lions only fared 2/3 as well as the senior side. After falling behind Inter Miami II in the second half, Wilfredo Rivera lifted the Young Lions to another home draw, which is less good than a win, but more good than a loss. At least the prospects had the good sense to keep a clean sheet in the postgame penalty shootout, winning it 2-0 to claim the extra point. We discuss a team that isn't quite as interesting this year, but is still hanging around the playoff line.

This week's mailbagbox asks about Designated Player replacements, Orlando City trivia, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we looked ahead at the trip to Tennessee to face Hany Mukhtar and Nashville SC. The team from Music City is battling for a playoff spot in 2024, thanks in part to goal contributions by Mukhtar and the improvement of Sam Surridge (who, now that I think about it, I might have called "Sturridge"). I hope I didn't, but now I'm not sure. Sure, I could go back and listen to see if I did, but honestly, who has the time? We discuss the match on Wednesday with our preview, our key matchups, and our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 433 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City finally won in Foxborough. It's as amazing as we'd always dreamed it would be.

30:07 – The mailbagbox asks us about Designated Players and stuff.

43:10 – Our key matchups and predictions for a trip to face Nashville at Geodis Park.

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Before we get to our preview of Saturday's match against the New England Revolution, we discussed what Oscar Pareja might and/or should do with his lineup with Duncan McGuire off to play in the Olympics — and, let's face it, maybe off to a new team afterwards. There are options, but there's not really a like-for-like without Big Dunc.

OCB will host Inter Miami II on Sunday and the Young Lions need a home win and a victory over their southern rivals. It's been an up-and-down season for Orlando City B, and we dip a little deeper into the matchup than we normally do.

Gregg Berhalter is out as U.S. Men's National Team head coach. We discuss a couple of the candidates and what the team's needs are from whoever takes Berhalter's place. We also offer to head up the search committee, but it's going to cost you, U.S. Soccer Federation!

This week's mailbagbox asks about improvement in Orlando City's squad. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we looked ahead at the trip north to face the New England Revolution. Carles Gil has been banged up, but could he feature on Saturday? The Revs are better with him, but in general New England doesn't have a preferred lineup when facing the Lions at Gillette Stadium. We offer up a preview, our key matchups, and our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 432 went down:

0:15 – What should the Lions do with Duncan off to Paris, OCB needs a win, and Berhalter officially out.

32:00 – A small but mighty offering from the mailbagbox.

41:52 – Our key matchups and predictions for a trip to Gillette Stadium.

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We break down Saturday's unexpected offensive explosion, check back on our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match. There were many good candidates from which to choose!

Two of the Lions made the MLS Team of the Matchday, but it could have been more. We also discussed Duncan McGuire's call-up to the U.S. Olympic team and how the Lions will miss his presence in the upcoming matches against New England and Nashville (and possibly beyond).

In other news, Kaká became the club's first inductee in the Legacy Terrace. It was a great ceremony with lots of special guests, and the first OCSC captain in the team's MLS era was a deserving recipient of the honor.

This week's mailbagbox is interested in how we celebrate, military-themed movies, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we looked back at an OCB match that didn't quite complete the weekend trifecta. The Young Lions and Carolina Core FC played a back-and-forth first half, with Orlando City B grabbing the lead just before the break. But OCB did not show particularly well in the second half, leading to a 2-1 home loss.

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Here’s how No. 431 went down:

0:15 – The Lions flat out wiped the field with D.C. United, which was unexpected...but also delightful. We break it down!

31:05 – Our mailbagbox asks us questions that few people would dare to ponder, and yet, we give our honest responses.

52:26 – Orlando City B did not maintain the high standards set by the Lions or the Pride this weekend, but hey, we watched.

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It was good to get back in the win column, and to see good contributions from Designated Players Facundo Torres and Martin Ojeda, while the strikers struggled in this one. We break down the victory in Canada, look back at our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

We also discussed OCB's upcoming match at home against Carolina.

This week's mailbagbox is interested in our opinions on whether Oscar Pareja's seat is hot and whether it should be. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked back at the USMNT's exit from Copa America and the insanity surrounding the match referee for the loss to Uruguay. We also talked about a couple of big names who could be offered Gregg Berhalter's job.

Kaká will be honored Saturday by Orlando City, becoming the first player immortalized in the team's Legends Terrace. We banter about why this is good and who else might join him (eventually).

Finally, we previewed Orlando City's looming home game against D.C. United, offering up our key matchups and making our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 430 went down:

0:15 – The Lions played a good first half (after the fifth minute) but didn't do much in the second, and OCB prepares for Carolina.

22:59 – Our mailbagbox segment and the USMNT crashes out of the Copa America.

44:54 – Orlando City will honor Kaká Saturday and our preview of D.C. United's visit.

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We break down the not-fun game against New York City FC, look back at our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

OCB faced an Atlanta United 2 team low in the table in the midweek and captured just two points. The Young Lions scored first, wasted a number of good opportunities to build on their lead, and gave up the equalizer and a go-ahead goal. But in true OCB fashion, Favian Loyola scored at the death to earn a point, and OCB actually turned in a good shootout performance to grab two points in a home game that should have produced three.

This week's mailbagbox wants to know what Orlando City will do in the transfer window this summer and how we get happy again after the Lions make us sad. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked back at the USMNT's loss to Panama after Timothy Weah lost his temper, his mind, and (probably) the Americans' shot at advancing (we recorded the show and I wrote this text before the Uruguay match).

Duncan McGuire still wants to leave and we discussed how his situation may play out and how it's different than some of the other untidy exits that draft picks have made when departing Orlando.

We also discussed the arrival of some missing Lions (and just in time).

Finally, we previewed Orlando City's midweek match at Toronto, providing our key matchups and score predictions for a visit to the Reds' house.

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Here’s how No. 429 went down:

0:15 – Losing 4-2 is less fun than winning 4-2.

18:33 – Our mailbagbox, Tim Weah ruins Copa America, Duncan still wants to leave, and the Lions get some reinforcements back.

42:06 – Orlando City is set to head north of the border to Canada during the July 4 holiday midweek.

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We looked back at our score predictions, broke down the match, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

The USMNT kicked off its Copa America campaign with a shutout victory, but it wasn't the impressive performance we were hoping for. The Yanks must play better against Panama and then brace for Uruguay.

This week's mailbagbox wants to know if a lack of minutes is hurting rookie midfielder Jeorgio Kocevski and what kind of minutes we can expect Duncan McGuire to get at the Olympics. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked at OCB's matchup against Atlanta United 2 tonight. The Young Lions will have to go the rest of the season without center back Abdi Salim, who was loaned to USL Championship side Detroit City FC. Salim immediately made an impact in Detroit, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 friendly victory over Pumas.

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando's trip to the Bronx to face New York City FC at Yankee Stadium. We already know the field conditions aren't ideal and that the Lions have a poor record there. But can they get a third straight result? We provide our key matchups and score predictions in our match preview.

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Here’s how No. 428 went down:

0:15 – The Lions scored a season-high four goals and held off a fresher Fire squad.

31:32 – Our mailbagbox asks us about an Orlando City rookie and a USMNT striker.

45:06 – OCB hosts Atlanta tonight and the MLS Lions head north to the baseball diamond.

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We break down the 2-2 draw at Charlotte, look back at our score predictions, and make our picks for Man of the Match (we were unanimous).

OCB's game at New York City FC II was canceled without an explanation given on Tuesday. No makeup date had been given as of this recording. OCB's Wilfredo Rivera got the call to replace Ramiro Enrique (personal matter) this week. He didn't get into Wednesday's match but Alex Freeman did and had a bit of an impact.

This week's mailbagbox wants to know if we know our Orlando City key pass trivia, what makes us smile, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we looked ahead to Saturday's matchup against Chicago, providing our key matchups and score predictions for the Lions vs. the Fire. Don't forget to listen to the episode to find out where you can meet your PawedCast hosts on Saturday afternoon in downtown Orlando!

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Here’s how No. 427 went down:

0:15 – The Lions had more guys but not more goals in Charlotte. OCB didn't play.

33:00 – Our mailbagbox asks us regular questions and trivia questions.

48:05 – We preview the second meeting of the season against the Fire.

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Orlando City's time off did not fix the offense. Well, that's not fair. It's fair to say that the offense is better at generating shots. However, if the shots aren't getting to the target or are missing it, that's a problem. Is it better to get only four shots and put one on frame or to get 19 and only put one on target? That's a terrible set of options. We break down a frustrating result despite a good performance against one of the league's best teams. We also look back at our predictions and make our selections for Man of the Match.

OCB was drunk in the bad way last week in a 2-2 home draw against Chattanooga. The Young Lions continue to defy the odds with some horrible postgame penalty shootout performances, however, and it's cost the team points. In this case, OCB went from three points in hand in stoppage time to just one lousy point. Look, only insane people care about soccer teams, because they're designed to hurt you for caring.

This week's mailbagbox wants to know about some of the young players. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we touched on the USMNT's good performance against Brazil in Orlando. It was weird being back at Camping World Stadium, but it was good to see the U.S. bounce back for a good result against a tough team. We also discussed David Brekalo's cameo at the Euros on Sunday.

Finally, we provide our key matchups and score predictions for the Lions' midweek trip to Charlotte. The North Carolina side is a good defensive club, which is not what the Orlando offense needs. But hey, you have to play them all.

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Here’s how No. 425 went down:

0:15 – The Lions can't shoot. The Young Lions can't shootout. It's not a fun season on the men's side.

28:04 – Our mailbagbox, a quick discussion of the USMNT vs. Brazil in Orlando, and David Brekalo gets (a few) minutes at the Euros.

45:17 – We go again Wednesday in Charlotte. Maybe the team will score. Maybe not.

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Games like this are what made us coin the term "drunk OCB," because unexpected things happen. In fact, each team scored on a penalty in regulation. When you factor in the multi-goal comeback, the waved-off winner, the red cards to people not even on the pitch, and the wacky shootout in which four consecutive players failed to score at one point, it was a crazy match.

After our recap, we discussed the summer fates of some of Orlando City's internationals. The club's Uruguayans aren't needed for Copa America, while starting center back David Brekalo is off to the Euros to play for Slovenia.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about Orlando City's shape and which summer international tournament we're looking forward to most. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we touched on the USMNT's beatdown at home against Colombia. The final score was ugly, and it could have been uglier, but it also could have been much better. It was a weird game.

Finally, we prepare you for Orlando City's home match Saturday against LAFC, a team the Lions have never beaten. Is this the year? Well, LAFC is quite good and the Lions have not been able to score goals, and that's not a recipe for success. We provide our key matchups and score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 425 went down:

0:15 – The Young Lions were comically bad to start the game but showed a great deal of grit to climb back into the match and take two of a possible three points from Carolina Core.

20:33 – Our mailbagbox is fairly short and sweet this week.

31:28 – The USMNT's bad day and a preview of the LAFC match.

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We broke down the match to the extent that we could stomach to do so, checked on our scor predictions, and made our Man of the Match selections.

If you're looking for more good news after the team went 0-2-1 in its last three matches, well, the team is off until June 15. The bad news is that it's against LAFC.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about MLS contracts and the shape employed by OCB's opponents on Sunday. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we discussed OCB's 3-1 loss to Inter Miami II in South Florida. The Young Lions had the manpower advantage throughout the second half, but not only couldn't equalize, but also conceded a third goal and refused to send any fresh legs onto the pitch when the game was still within reach.

In better OCB news, Yutaro Tsukada was named MLS NEXT Pro Player of the Month for May. The 2024 MLS SuperDraft pick has been impressive with the reserve side this season.

Finally, we've got news about the OCSC academy teams. The U-15 and U-17 squads each fared better against Inter Miami than the first team or reserve side has managed in 2024.

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Here’s how No. 424 went down:

0:15 – The Lions were not good on Saturday night...at least offensively. The defense was good.

18:26 – Our mailbagbox shows our listeners aren't afraid to ask the tough questions.

28:23 – OCB suffered a bad loss, but there's some good news about the club's young players as well.

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We looked back at our score predictions, broke down the game, discussed that decision, and made our Man of the Match selections.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about our favorite concerts and Orlando City's Designated Player situation. If you turned in your question after lunchtime on Thursday, we will have to get to it on the next episode, as we had to record early in the day due to a quirk in my schedule. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we discussed OCB's upcoming trip to South Florida. The Young Lions owe the Baby Herons of Inter Miami II some payback for a "home" loss at IMG Academy in Bradenton earlier in the season.

Finally, we looked ahead to Orlando City's trip to play the New York Red Bulls. It's not optimal that the Lions are staying on the road rather than returning home in between. This isn't to say it's not a smart idea in many ways, but the club has a bad history when extending a road trip for the second game. We looked at the Red Bulls' statistical leaders, provided our key matchups, and made our predictions for the final score.

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Here’s how No. 423 went down:

0:15 – The Lions scored early. Then they stopped. It didn't hold up. At least it wasn't a loss.

26:57 – Our mailbagbox asks us about concerts and Designated Players.

35:25 – OCB looks for payback against the Baby Herons and the Lions head to New Jersey.

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We looked back at our score predictions, broke down the game, and made our Man of the Match selections.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about playing out of the back, conceding possession to the other team, using five substitutes, and former Lion Pierre da Silva (which was a blast from the past). Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After the mailbagbox, we discussed OCB's dominant 5-0 win at home Sunday against Huntsville City. The Young Lions could have won by an even bigger margin had they been clinical at all with some guilt-edged chances in the first half, but a big +5 in the goal differential column and a win are nothing to be upset about.

Finally, we turned our attention toward Orlando City's visit to Soldier Field to play the Chicago Fire Wednesday. After a brief discussion on the Fire's season so far, we discussed the key matchups we expect and made our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 422 went down:

0:15 – The Lions didn't get it done against the Crew. We mourn the loss.

21:19 – Our mailbagbox got philosophical about tactics.

37:02 – OCB's lopsided win and a preview of the Lions at the Fire on Wednesday.

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After that, we dove into a chat about Orlando City's injuries. As of Thursday, Duncan McGuire wasn't fully participating in training, nor has defender Robin Jansson yet joined the main group for full contact drills. That's not the best news with the defending MLS Cup winners visiting Inter&Co Stadium on Saturday. However, there is a player nearing a return, and it's an attacker, so that's helpful. Whether it will be helpful against the Columbus Crew or will have to wait a while longer remains to be seen.

This week's mailbagbox had nothing in it when we started recording, but we still managed to field questions on why a Crew fan should switch loyalties to Orlando City and whether the Lions will ever sign another big-name player. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention toward the matchup with Columbus. The Crew may not have Cucho Martinez this week, but they're still a formidable bunch. We provide our key matchups for Saturday night and give you our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 421 went down:

0:15 – A chat about one of our own and then a discussion of Orlando City's injured guys.

11:35 – Our mailbagbox pendulum swung the other way, but we still had some questions to answer.

22:30 – Our look ahead to the Lions against the Crew.

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We looked back at our score predictions to see how we did (happily we were both wrong), broke down the game, and made our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox was absolutely loaded, asking us questions about cruise vacations, the USMNT, The Soccer Tournament, Mel Brooks movies, what we'd wear to the game as players, Jack Lynn's (lack of) goal celebrations, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

We'll be back before the end of the week to preview Orlando City's coming matchup on Saturday against the Columbus Crew.

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Here’s how No. 420 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City and San Jose tangled in Norcal and the Cardiac Cats won the day.

23:03 – Our mailbagbox was insanely full this week, which is awesome.

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This week's mailbagbox asked us whether Messi is ducking playing in Orlando and which player we would change their footedness (is that a word?). Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday's late-night matchup with the Earthquakes in San Jose. The Quakes have been scoring plenty of goals but giving up a lot more of them. Tired legs, lack of rotation, and a cross-country trip will combine to make things difficult for Orlando City, but the game is something from which the Lions could take points with a good performance. We look ahead to the key matchups on Saturday and try to predict the final score.

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Here’s how No. 419 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City and Inter Miami played more than 90 minutes without scoring a goal. But everyone got plenty of fresh air and exercise.

23:03 – Our mailbagbox was light, but fun.

32:20 – A preview of the San Jose match.

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We also discussed the Lions honored as both a candidate for Goal of the Matchday and those picked for the Team of the Matchday.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about the grass at Inter&Co Stadium, the formation Oscar Pareja used on Saturday, and the new MLS injury rule. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention to Inter Miami, which visits Orlando Wednesday night. Why is everyone amazed at what Lionel Messi is doing in MLS? He should be tearing up MLS (and he is). Same with his Barcelona buddies. We look at the game's key matchups and make our score predictions. It was a rare case of us predicting the same result.

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Here’s how No. 418 went down:

0:15 – We unpack the Lions' win over Philadelphia, but what is the cost? We'll have to wait for more definitive news on Robin Jansson's injury.

38:29 – Our mailbagbox asks us about Orlando's pitch and formation among other things.

54:57 – The Lions prepare for the Orlando installment of the 2024 Tropic Thunder series.

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OCB played a midweek game, hosting New York Red Bulls II. It was just the second match this season for the Young Lions at Osceola County Stadium, but they jumped out to a good start and then survived a lot of turnovers of their own making en route to a 3-1 win. We discuss the excellent night from Yutaro Tsukada and, of course, it's always nice to see Shak Mohammed score.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about Halliday's expanding role with Thorhallsson sidelined, and we were also given the task of designing a new third kit for Orlando City (we present two ideas, actually). Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention to Orlando City's visit to the greater Philly area to take on the Union Saturday, complete with our key matchups for the game — on which we agreed — and our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 417 went down:

0:15 – A look at Orlando City's options with Santos and Thorhallsson likely out, and a breakdown of OCB's first home win of 2024.

21:54 – Our mailbagbox asks about Halliday and the third kits we'd like to see for OCSC.

34:20 – Our preview of the Lions' trip to Philadelphia to face the Union.

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We looked back at another unhappy result for Orlando City, although there is a lot to be said for the team's attitude despite being down both a man and a goal for the majority of the match. We checked in on our score predictions and made our selections for Man of the Match. We also discussed the fullback injuries that could change the look of the team for the coming weeks.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about Concacaf Champions Cup balance, Orlando City in the English football pyramid, beer, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention to Orlando City B's matchup against Chattanooga FC on Saturday. Many people were making their way to Inter&Co Stadium for the senior team's match against FC Cincinnati, so it's understandable if you missed it. The Young Lions remain unbeaten on the road this year, but the performances need to be better, especially in shootouts, after another road draw. OCB held Chattanooga 1-1 but then lost the shootout, 5-4.

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Here’s how No. 416 went down:

0:15 – We look back at a game that got ruined pretty early but one from which the Lions still could have taken some points.

26:15 – Our mailbagbox meandered through a variety of topics and we were happy to answer all questions.

49:25 – A quick look at OCB's trip to Chattanooga.

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Joining us to help prep for FC Cincinnati is Coach Gough from Cincy Soccer Talk. Coach was kind enough to fill us in on how FCC is doing offensively and defensively, how the new faces are fitting in, and what the team is doing without Vazquez. Big thanks to our special guest for giving us the scoop on Orlando City's opponents on Saturday.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about scrambling the Orlando City starting lineup, OCB going up against college teams, non-craft beer, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention to Saturday's matchup and how we see it playing out. We presented our key matchups for the game and our final score predictions. We're not feeling particularly optimistic after last Saturday, especially when Orlando City will have to figure out a way through the towering defense of the visitors, most of which have played (or currently play) for the U.S. Men's National Team.

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Here’s how No. 415 went down:

0:15 – Coach Gough joins us to give us the scoop on FC Cincinnati's 2024 season so far.

21:18 – Our mailbagbox has us changing everyone's positions and it's frankly hard to keep track of when doing it live.

43:12 – Our key matchups and score predictions for Saturday night against FCC under the lights.

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This week's mailbagbox asked us about the EPL race, wrestling walk-up music we'd pick for ourselves, Orlando City's start to 2024, win probability, Italian players, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention to OCB and Toronto FC II. The Young Lions finally got to play in Kissimmee for the first time this season, and appeared headed for at least a point when disaster struck late. The Reds scored in the 87th minute to swipe (Swiper, no swiping!) all three points from the Young Lions. Soccer is pain (at least for this week).

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Here’s how No. 414 went down:

0:15 – The Lions didn't give up an early goal this time. Instead, they gave up two late ones. It was worse.

24:29 – Our mailbagbox is undeterred by the loss and the questions (and answers) were flowing.

49:00 – OCB had its own trouble with the Reds on Sunday.

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This week's mailbagbox was a little light, but it did have one intriguing question...at least to us. We gave it the thoughtful answer it deserved. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention to our Toronto FC preview, looking at the leaders on the team and selecting our key matchups for Saturday night's game as well as our score predictions. Will the Lions keep their unbeaten run going or will TFC keep its winning streak alive?

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Here’s how No. 413 went down:

0:15 – Just seconds into our show, we welcome James Grossi aboard to tell us all about Toronto FC.

24:01 – Our mailbagbox throws us a curveball, but we are up to the challenge of answering the question.

36:35 – Previewing the Reds and our key matchups and score predictions.

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This week's mailbagbox asked us how the Lions will utilize new player rules regarding Designated Players and MLS U22 Initiative signings. Our listeners also wondered what positions we would target in the summer transfer window. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention toward Orlando City B. The Young Lions went to Crown Legacy on Friday. The Carolina-based side made it through 2023 without a home loss, but that's not going to happen in 2024. OCB went to Matthews, NC, and came away with a 2-0 victory. It wasn't exactly one of the drunkest MLS NEXT Pro games we've ever seen, but we'll take the result any day of the week. Congrats on the goals to Alex Freeman and Shak Mohammed.

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Here’s how No. 412 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City completed its two-game road swing, earning four of a possible six points. We dissect the most recent match in Montreal.

21:19 – Our mailbagbox asks us about Designated Players and U22 Initiative players, as well as other stuff.

31:41 – OCB handled its business with a complete 2-0 win on the road at Crown Legacy.

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This week's mailbagbox asked us trivia questions and whether or not I'm a Swifty. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention toward Orlando City's trip to Montreal. It's a difficult place to play, but the Lions have a chance to come home with points. We look at the key matchups in the game and make our final score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 411 went down:

0:15 – Let's talk about the three Orlando City DPs and whether they fit together.

14:23 – Our mailbagbox tests our trivial knowledge.

27:32 – A preview of what awaits the Lions in Montreal — plus, score predictions.

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We break down Orlando's dramatic victory at Audi Field and make our selections for Man of the Match. It was nice to treat D.C. the way the Lions have been treated by United during the Wayne Rooney years.

This week's mailbagbox asked us whether we prefer Coke or Pepsi and about Orlando City's slow starts under Oscar Pareja. We kind of debunked the latter, actually. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention toward Orlando City B's trip to Philadelphia. The Young Lions weren't at their best, but they did come away with a 1-1 draw. The penalty shootout that followed the draw was epic, and unfortunately went the Union's way, but it's still always good to come home with any points from the road. Well done, Young Lions!

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Here’s how No. 410 went down:

0:15 – The Lions Rooney'd Wayne Rooney's old team.

30:22 – Our mailbagbox desires answers to the deepest, darkest questions in our listeners' souls.

47:39 – OCB captured another road point in what seems like a neverending road trip to start 2024.

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We break down a forgettable loss at IMG Academy and touch on how the OCSC U-15 and U-17 teams did in the Generation Adidas Cup.

This week's mailbagbox asked us questions about scoreless draws, how that affects our non-soccer-enjoying friends, and whether the book really is better than the show or movie. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Finally, we turned our attention toward Orlando City's return to play this Saturday at Audi Field, where the Lions will face D.C. United. The Black & Red have been a problem for Orlando the last two seasons, but in 2021, Orlando swept United. It might be nice to call back to those simpler days of 2021 when wins over D.C. weren't as difficult as they've been the past two seasons. We wrapped up our preview with our key matchups for the game and our score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 409 went down:

0:15 – Our breakdown of OCB's first loss of the 2024 season and now the Young Lions will play two more on the road before they get a real home game.

18:54 – Our mailbagbox asks about books vs. shows/movies and scoreless draws.

42:00 – Our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City at D.C. United.

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We break down a frustrating game in terms of the result, but a positive performance for Orlando. We check in on our score predictions and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox asked us questions about The Office and movies that didn't quite stick the landing. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

Also hidden (well, no, not hidden) is news of a potential gathering in June for our listeners and readers to meet up with your humble TMLPC cohosts on a Pride-Lions double weekend at home. Stay tuned for us to finalize the details in the coming weeks.

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Here’s how No. 408 went down:

0:15 – Our breakdown of a frustrating night in which the Lions played well but couldn't get over the hump.

24:42 – Our mailbagbox presented questions about the small screen and the silver screen.

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Oscar Pareja has favored the 4-4-2 the last two matches and it has produced mixed results, but there's no question it looked more cohesive last Saturday night against Austin FC. We open this week's show with a discussion of whether Papi will go back to the 4-4-2 well for a third consecutive match or if the familiar and comfortable 4-2-3-1 will return with so many of the team's international players.

After that, we're joined by Mark Fishkin from the Seeing Red podcast. Mark was kind enough to stop by and provide all the New York Red Bulls information we wanted to know about. Big thanks to Mark for giving us his thoughts on Lewis Morgan, Emil Forsberg, Sandro Schwarz, and more.

This week's mailbagbox asked us questions about OCB players, corporations teaming up to make alcoholic beverages, Carlos Rivas, how many shows we've done as a podcast host combination, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC, or hitting us up on Bluesky Social with that same hashtag.

After answering the mail, we turned our attention to the Lions against the Red Bulls on Saturday. We discussed their players to watch, provided our key matchups for the game, and did our best to predict the final score.

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Here’s how No. 407 went down:

0:15 – With his internationals returning, will Oscar Pareja stick with the 4-4-2 or go back to the 4-2-3-1?

9:18 – Mark Fishkin from the Seeing Red podcast hops on with us and gives us the scoop on the Red Bulls.

26:58 — Our mailbagbox overfloweth, and we jump on those key matchups and predictions for Saturday night's game.

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We break down a comprehensive victory over the newest team from Texas, check back at our score predictions, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox was quite full again. We answered questions about Lions as basketball players, great advice we've gotten, superstitions, transfer value, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

After answering the mail, we celebrated a five-star rating and review before diving into the USMNT's victory over Mexico in the Concacaf Nations League. It's always fun to beat El Tri. And holy moly, what a goal by Tyler Adams. Have a hit!

Finally, we turned our attention to OCB's road match at Huntsville City FC. The Young Lions didn't get the win, but they still brought two out of three points home to Orlando, making it five of a possible six from two away matches to start the season. It's a great beginning for the Young Lions and we are here for it.

Be sure to rate and review our show wherever you get your podcasts. Remember, we'll read any five-star reviews we get on Apple Podcasts on the next show.

Here’s how No. 406 went down:

0:15 – The Lions are on the board in the win column! Here's how it happened.

21:55 – Our mailbagbox is stuffed again and we have a new five-star review.

44:23 — The USMNT defeated rival Mexico to win a trophy and OCB added two more points in Huntsville.

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This week's mailbagbox was super full, even though we recorded earlier in the week than usual. Well done, everyone! We answered questions about the NCAA final four, major sports league commissioners, whether Orlando City fans are hopeful or doubtful, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

As the mailbagbox was winding down, I went on a bit of a tangent owing to a sudden fundraising idea. Let us know what you think of it, and believe us, you won't hurt our feelings if you hate it.

We then discussed OCB's upcoming match on the road at Huntsville. Can the Young Lions make it two road wins in a row? Well, they're going to be missing some guys, just like the senior Lions, but why not? Anything can happen when OCB plays.

Finally, we turned our attention to Saturday night's home match, providing our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City vs. Austin FC.

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Here’s how No. 405 went down:

0:15 – Here's who Orlando City will be without when Austin visits on Saturday. It's a significant list.

12:49 – Our mailbagbox is overflowing and I have a spontaneous epiphany about a potential fundraiser.

39:50 — OCB heads to Huntsville and our predictions for Austin at home.

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We broke down the match, looked back on our predictions, and selected a unanimous Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about Duncan McGuire and Luis Muriel starting together and whether that's likely to continue. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Following the mailbagbox, we discussed OCB's MLS NEXT Pro season opener at Atlanta United 2 on Saturday. The Young Lions did Young Lion things, falling behind on an early penalty. However, they equalized on a penalty of their own and then took the lead before halftime on an outstanding free kick from Yutaro Tsukada.

Despite Atlanta 2 making things interesting late, the Young Lions hung on for three points to start their 2024 campaign. Drunk OCB is very much still Drunk OCB.

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Here’s how No. 404 went down:

0:15 – Things haven't gotten any better for Orlando City in terms of results, but the performances at least aren't far off. That's little consolation.

28:07 – Our mailbagbox featured essentially the same question from two different listeners.

35:08 — Drunk OCB is back! Penalties! Free kick goals! Late drama!

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We discuss a difficult night on the road and what went wrong. Not much went right, but the Lions did manage their first two away goals in Mexico, although both of them had to come from the penalty spot. We make our Man of the Match selections and look back at our predictions from the match. Plus, a lot of stuff went wrong for me that night, even deep in the night after the match, so it's an evening I will want to quickly forget.

This week's mailbagbox asked us to make a comparison with a key Orlando Pride signing and wanted to know about goal cameras and goal-line technology. We also had a follow-up from a question from our last episode, complete with a recording of the friend of a listener giving us his responses to our musical suggestions. That's a first. We've never had the recording of a friend of a listener on the show before. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Following the mailbagbox, we discussed Orlando City's group stage schedule in the 2024 Leagues Cup. The Lions got a decent draw for the group and will take on CF Montreal and San Luis in late July/early August, with both games coming at home.

Finally, we turn our attention toward a road match against an Atlanta United side that is scoring in bunches. Can Orlando City batten down the defensive hatches against an attack that features Giorgos Giakoumakis and Thiago Almada? We provide our key matchups and score predictions, but we'll have to wait until Sunday to find out of the Lions can get a road result in Georgia.

We closed with a five-star rating and review and a quick mention of OCB's MLS NEXT Pro opener on Saturday, as well as the news that Zakaria Taifi has signed a two-year deal to play with the Young Lions.

Be sure to rate and review our show wherever you get your podcasts. Remember, we'll read any five-star reviews we get on Apple Podcasts on the next show.

Here’s how No. 403 went down:

0:15 – It was a difficult (and very late) night in Monterrey, and no good came from it. Also, my phone died and my laptop crashed.

27:05 – Our mailbagbox was a lot of fun and features a guest voice of a listener's friend. Plus, Orlando City's Leagues Cup group stage opponents.

45:08 — A trip to Atlanta to play on the indoor fake plastic grass looms over the weekend.

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A late mistake defensively and a couple of goalkeeping gaffes combined to create more than Orlando could overcome in a 3-2 home loss to Minnesota United. The Loons paid the Lions back for McGuire's late winner in St. Paul last year and it could hardly have been a more frustrating result, despite the fact that the offense did everything right except put the ball in the net with the final touch.

We break down the game and why we think it was actually encouraging regardless of the result. We also made our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox requested information about TV shows, expected goals, and music recommendations. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Following the mailbagbox, we discussed OCB's new head coach, who was formerly an assistant with the Young Lions. Can he maintain the "drunk OCB" of 2023 as we head into 2024? We'll start to find that out on Saturday as the Young Lions head to Atlanta to open their season.

Finally, we turn our attention toward Tigres. The Lions return to Monterrey in search of a spot in the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals. A win would do it. A draw while scoring at least one goal would do it. A shootout win after a 0-0 draw would do it. But the Lions are going into a difficult place to play and had to hang on for dear life a year ago just to get a scoreless draw. It'll be tough. We lay out our key matchups for the game and try our luck at predicting the final score.

Be sure to rate and review our show wherever you get your podcasts. Remember, we'll read any five-star reviews we get on Apple Podcasts on the next show.

Here’s how No. 402 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City found some offense, but should have found much more offense than it did in a dissatisfying late loss to the Loons.

24:36 – Our mailbagbox and OCB's new head coach.

47:42 — The Lions visit Mexico looking to topple Tigres.

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We break down the Concacaf Champions Cup meeting and make our selections for Man of the Match. The two teams will get after it again next Tuesday night in Monterrey, Mexico.

This week's mailbagbox was curious about our theme music, Orlando City's formations over the years, which of the OCB Young Lions to keep an eye on, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Following the mailbagbox, we turned our attention toward the weekend battle ahead at home against Minnesota United. The Loons are under new management and the Lions will wear their new Legacy Kit in front of the home crowd for the match. We get you set with our preview, including our key matchups and score predictions.

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Here’s how No. 401 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City's offense is still a work in progress, but both teams played stellar defense when Tigres came to town.

24:36 – Our mailbagbox reveals what our listeners most want to know.

47:42 — The Lions and the Loons are set to tussle Saturday night. We get on with the predicting.

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This week's mailbagbox was interested in the current referee situation in MLS, what exactly we saw on Saturday, and one of our favorite shows. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Following the mailbagbox, we turned our attention toward the midweek matchup with Tigres in Concacaf Champions Cup action. The game is in Orlando, but it's a late kickoff. Will that help the Mexican side? It's not like they need any help. Tigres will be a tough out, and we provide our key matchups for Tuesday as well as our score predictions for the Orlando leg of this tie.

We'll be back later in the week. Get your "ask us anything" questions in and be sure to rate and review our show wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s how No. 400 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City had a horrible day on Saturday and, as someone who watched the game, so did I.

14:34 – Our mailbagbox asks us about referees, TV shows, and other stuff.

28:02 — The Lions are out of the Miami frying pan and go into the Tigres fire.

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The United States Men's National Team is returning to Orlando to face Brazil in a friendly this summer at Camping World Stadium. We discuss how cool that is and how it will tell us a lot about how far the USMNT still has to go.

Rookie midfielder Jeorgio Kocevski is our special guest this week. The Syracuse product earned an MLS contract with Orlando City this preseason after being selected No. 21 overall in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft. We put the rookie through his paces, asking him about his draft experience, his transition to the pro game, his first minutes as a professional, what we can expect from a goal celebration, and much more. Big thanks to Jeorgio for his time and for being a great sport.

This week's mailbagbox was thirsting for knowledge about David Rohe's split loyalties if Orlando City ever faces Tallahassee Soccer Club. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Following the mailbagbox, we ranted a bit about Major League Soccer not fully participating in the 2024 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, how the league is not respecting a tournament with a long history, and how U.S. Soccer dropped the ball by not dropping the hammer. Nobody wins and everyone loses, and that's a shame.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday's match in Fort Lauderdale against Inter Miami, giving our key matchups and score predictions. It's the first of the 2024 Tropic Thunder rivalry matches and we're hoping for a good outcome, but we're already side eyeing the refs after what happened to the LA Galaxy's Mark Delgado over the last several days.

Here’s how No. 399 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City swept its Concacaf Champions Cup tie with Cavalry FC, taking the home leg 3-1 with a heavily rotated lineup. We break down the match..

20:55 – Jeorgio Kocevski jumps on the pod with us and could hardly have been a more personable guest.

37:36 — Our mailbagbox segment, a rant about MLS not being fully involved in this year's U.S. Open Cup, and a look ahead to a matchup with Miami.

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After starting the show with some unfinished business from last time, we break down the Lions' opener against CF Montreal and hey, at least Josef Martinez didn't score. But then again, Orlando hasn't allowed a goal on opening day since Oscar Pareja arrived.

This week's mailbagbox was curious about the roles of Martin Ojeda and Luis Muriel for 2024. We think both players are going to do big things. There was also a question about which of the two major home improvement stores we prefer. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Following the mailbagbox, we had some breaking news that will seem old by the time you listen to this show. I went on a mini rant about MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+. Then, we finished with our key matchups and score predictions for tonight's game against Cavalry FC in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

Here’s how No. 398 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City got its first win in Concacaf Champions Cup in emphatic fashion, outclassing Cavalry FC with speed and ball movement. We recap.

23:35 – The mailbagbox wants to know about home improvement stores, Muriel, and Ojeda.

38:00 — A rant about MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+ and our key matchups and score predictions for the second leg against Cavalry FC.

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We also discussed Robin Jansson getting the captain's armband, in one of the least surprising decisions ever.

This week's mailbagbox wanted to know about words we hate seeing get mixed up, words we mix up ourselves, which Eastern Conference non-playoff teams from 2023 might get over the line in 2024, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Following the mailbagbox, we looked ahead to Saturday's matchup at home against CF Montreal. We gave our key matchups and score predictions and basically agreed that winning would be really cool.

Here’s how No. 397 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City got its first win in Concacaf Champions Cup in emphatic fashion, outclassing Cavalry FC with speed and ball movement. We recap.

19:23 – The mailbagbox wants to know about pet peeves and stuff. Clearly, we have too many.

39:52 — CF Montreal visits Orlando on Saturday and that means it's key matchups and predictions time.

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Competitive games start this week for Orlando City in both 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup and MLS play. We couldn't be more excited to have the closed-door scrimmages out of the way and true tests lie ahead for the Lions.

First, however, we open the show with a discussion of Orlando City's final preseason tuneup for the games that count. The Lions threw away a 2-0 lead against the Colorado Rapids but managed a Cardiac Cats moment for MLS SuperDraft selection Jeorgio Kocevski, who won the match late for Orlando. With the win, OCSC finishes the preseason with four straight wins and a 4-0-1 record.

This week's mailbagbox asked us what Nico Lodeiro gave Shakur Mohammed in exchange for the No. 14 jersey. We don't know (but we'll ask!), however, we do have vivid imaginations, and Dave let his wander for a moment over this topic. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Following the mailbagbox, we spoke about Orlando City's announcement that The Wall has already sold out ahead of Saturday's league opener against CF Montreal. That's a good step, and hopefully the rest of the season will follow suit soon.

Finally, we looked ahead to some of the key players on Cavalry FC, as the Lions head to Canada for Concacaf Champions Cup action on Wednesday night. We gave our key matchups and our score predictions for the team's first competitive match of 2024.

We'll be back before the end of the week with another show, breaking down the Lions at Cavalry and looking ahead to a match against Montreal on Saturday.

Here’s how No. 396 went down:

0:15 – We wrap up the preseason with a discussion of Orlando City's 3-2 win over the Colorado Rapids in the final test before the games start to matter.

14:20 – The mailbagbox is dying to know what Nico Lodeiro gave Shak Mohammed for jersey No. 14.

21:09 — The Wall is sold out ahead of Saturday's MLS opener and we give our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City at Cavalry FC on Wednesday.

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Aside from that, Orlando City was busy in the last week, completing a new contract for Robin Jansson, signing new players David Brekalo and Luis Muriel, inking Luiz Muzzi and Ricardo Moreira to new two-year contracts, and naming Oscar Pareja's coaching staff for 2024. It's been a busy week and we unpack it all for you.

After that, we discuss the new Legacy Kit the Lions will wear on the road in 2024 and 2025. They'll also where the new kits at home on March 9. It's an outstanding homage to the club's USL history and longtime fans will enjoy the new threads.

After the jersey talk, we discussed the Lions' preseason results to date, with one more test waiting before the games matter next week. It's been a successful preseason, but the rubber meets the road in just a few days.

This week's mailbagbox asked us to recommend a jersey name and number, wanted to know how McGuire and Muriel will fit together, asked about AppleTV+ shows, and much more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we wrapped up with OCB's schedule and news about a pair of former Lions.

Here’s how No. 395 went down:

0:15 – The Duncan McGuire off-season saga is over and it didn't end in a satisfying way for anyone involved, but the upshot is that he's back in Orlando prepping for the season. There were lots of other signings, too, and some of them weren't player-related.

24:02 – The Lions have a new road kit and it's a beauty. Also a beauty: Orlando City's preseason results so far.

32:49 — The mailbagbox, OCB's schedule is out, and news on a couple of former Lions.

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We unpack as much of the McGuire saga as we can.

The Lions have played a match since we last had a show, and we discuss Orlando City's 1-1 draw against Flamengo on Jan. 27. It was a good showing by the club and a great introduction for the home fans to new attacking midfielder Nico Lodeiro, who assisted on the Lions' only goal. Orlando was at least as good as the Brazilian side on the afternoon, and even the reserves and the kids didn't allow the visitors to escape with a win. We break down some of the key takeaways from the match.

This week's mailbagbox was back in business, with listeners asking us whether Gaston Gonzalez has played his last match for Orlando City, what we think of players opting to remain in North America rather than signing overseas, and which left-footed player has the best weak foot. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we wrapped up with a flurry of news, including Gonzalez's loan to Nacional in Uruguay, the signing of Homegrown defender Tahir Reid-Brown, and two critical signings closing in on becoming a reality.

Here’s how No. 394 went down:

0:15 – The Duncan McGuire-to-Blackburn story should be over but, as of the recording of this episode, it wasn't. Oh, and Orlando drew Brazilian side Flamengo in a preseason friendly.

32:51 – The mailbagbox has questions about players opting to sign in the U.S. rather than overseas, the Gaston Gonzalez loan, and which left-footed player has the best weaker foot.

41:42 — Gonzalez is loaned to an Uruguayan team, the Lions sign Reid-Brown as a Homegrown, and two much-needed signings are reportedly nearing completion.

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We started with a discussion of player signings since late December, with Orlando City signing Ivan Angulo, Facundo Torres, and Michael Halliday to new deals and we discuss what those moves mean for the club. But it wasn't all returning faces who signed this month. Seattle Sounders legend Nico Lodeiro joined the Lions in a move designed to replace the departed Mauricio Pereyra. We also touched on Luca Petrasso's loan move to Triestina in Italy, the reports about center back David Brekalo, and what Orlando City still has left to accomplish as far as roster building this off-season.

It wasn't originally designed to be an interview for this show, but Orlando City President of Business Operations Jarrod Dillon was kind enough to let me record my exclusive interview with him and used it for the PawedCast. We spoke at length about the new stadium naming rights partnership that OCSC signed with Inter&Co. Jarrod was aware the name wasn't necessarily going to resonate with the fanbase, but he's genuinely excited about what the 10-year agreement is going to bring to the club and its fans. We hope you enjoy this extended interview. It won't make you love the new name, but it might at least help you appreciate what the club is trying to accomplish with the partnership.

Following the interview, we gave some of our own thoughts on the Inter&Co agreement. There are a lot of positives that come along with the clunky stadium name.

This week's mailbagbox was completely empty, as were our hearts upon finding that out. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we wrapped up with news about Adam Grinwis' new club, Duncan McGuire's first cap with the USMNT at the senior level, and a breakdown of the Lions' preseason schedule. It would be nice to have more matches open to the public, but at least we can go see them play on Saturday against top-notch competition.

Here’s how No. 393 went down:

0:15 – A list of guys the Lions signed and what it means, and also one player who went out on loan to Italy.

35:14 – Our exclusive interview with Jarrod Dillon about the whole stadium naming rights thing.

1:11:08 — More reaction on the Inter&Co naming rights thing, Duncan McGuire's latest achievement, and the Lions' preseason schedule.

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Our show starts with our discussion of Orlando City's roster decisions after the 2023 season and a look back at what we got right and wrong in our predictions from our last show. Mostly we were right, but that's not too difficult when you know the contract situations. Still, there were some mild surprises. We discussed those and how the departures of captain Mauricio Pereyra and center back Antonio Carlos could affect the Lions heading into 2024. In more positive news, we're ecstatic the club brought back Wilder Cartagena on a new two-year contract. His partnership with Cesar Araujo has been great for the club and the results on the field.

This week's mailbagbox asked us about Orlando City's 2024 MLS SuperDraft picks and their roles, Florida's state parks, cruises and all-inclusive resorts, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

After tackling our listeners' questions, we dove into more recent news. We talked about Oscar Pareja's new contract to stay on for the next two years, the loss of assistant coach Josema Bazan, the Lions' draft picks, the club's first friendly of 2024, Orlando City's Concacaf Champions Cup draw, the upcoming MLS schedule, and the league's attempts to pull a fast one on the U.S. Open Cup. Man, what a full show!

Here’s how No. 392 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City's post-2023 roster decisions, how well/poorly we predicted them, the departures of the captain and Antonio Carlos, and Wilder Cartagena is staying.

18:17 – The mailbagbox has questions about a variety of topics.

42:33 — Oscar Pareja is staying, Josema Bazan is not, Orlando's draft picks, a preseason friendly announced, the 2024 schedule, and more

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This week's mailbagbox asked us about Christmas ornaments, obscure Orlando City jerseys we've spotted at games, and the first season of MLS on Apple TV+. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we jumped back into stays/goes with both feet, trying to predict the core of the 2024 Orlando City roster. There may be a bit less guesswork now that we have more reliable contract information, but you never know.

Here’s how No. 391 went down:

0:15 – We tackle the first half of Orlando City's roster asking each other if that player will stay with the Lions or be playing elsewhere next year.

29:02 – It's mailbagbox time!

45:05 — We continue our game of stays/goes through the remainder of the OCSC roster.

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This week's mailbagbox only had one submission, but 10 (!) questions. Don't worry, they went quickly, as it was a rapid-fire trivia game for your hosts. We got some right. We got many wrong. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we broke down Orlando City's off-season priorities, in order of importance. Obviously there are three key figures who either need to be re-signed or replaced with someone of equal or higher quality — it's not going to be easy to find someone who fits that description, let alone three someones, so we are hoping for the re-signing thing to happen. There are Designated Player slots to consider, guys who have their loans ending, and others who need to have their options picked up or sign new contracts entirely.

Here’s how No. 390 went down:

0:15 – We open the show with our recap and breakdown of Orlando City's 2-0 loss to Columbus after extra time. The Lions could have used some goals, quite frankly.

20:24 – We dip into our mailbagbox, only to find out it's trivia night!

34:29 — Orlando City's off-season priorities are pretty straightforward.

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We open our discussion this week with a quick look at the United States Men's National Team's two-leg performance against Trinidad & Tobago. The games couldn't have been more different and, although the second leg went off the rails when Sergino Dest lost his mind and got himself sent off for no good reason, the Yanks at least survived and advanced.

After that, we welcomed Orlando City Technical Director and Assistant General Manager Ricardo Moreira back to the show to talk about the team he and Luiz Muzzi put together for the 2023 season. We also asked him about his future plans beyond this season, the club's unusual season in terms of Designated Players, whether Ivan Angulo and/or Wilder Cartagena might be back next year, and much more. Big thanks to Ricardo for taking time out to talk with us.

The mailbagbox only had one question in it this week, but it was a doozy. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday's showdown with the Columbus Crew, making our score predictions and giving our thoughts on where the match could be won or lost.

Here’s how No. 389 went down:

0:15 – We open the show with a short discussion of the USMNT's series against Trinidad & Tobago and Sergino Dest losing his mind.

9:26 – Ricardo Moreira joins us and we ask him about his future, team building, and a bunch of other stuff.

31:55 — A quick dip into the m

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We look at how these teams got to this point, dive into some of the key players for Columbus, and discuss the offensive prowess the Crew have shown in 2023. These were two of the best teams in the conference all season and now they'll go toe-to-toe with a berth in the conference final on the line. It should be a great match.

We also looked at the various Orlando City players who will be with their national teams during the current international break. Hopefully they all come home healthy and inspired to show what they can do for their club after serving their countries.

The mailbagbox was chock full again this week! Big thanks to everyone who submitted questinos, including some about the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Facundo Torres' future in Orlando (or elsewhere), what one parent should tell his child about OCSC supporters' goal kick chant, and much more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

We'll be back next week to preview the game against the Crew and to cover any other news that breaks between now and then. Thanks for listening!

Here’s how No. 388 went down:

0:15 – The Lions will face the Columbus Crew in the Eastern Conference semifinals. We've got your tale of the tape for the matchup.

19:35 – Several Lions will be with their national teams during this international window. Let's find out which ones.

21:48 — A big pile of mail greeted us when we loo

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The mailbagbox was chock full this week and as a result, we babbled for a while about such topics as Inter Miami's seemingly endless supply of star players who aren't Designated Players, Oscar Pareja's postseason plans, various strikers who could help Orlando City next year, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we discussed the weirdness of MLS in terms of not reseeding the playoffs after the first round, and whether Orlando City would be better off playing Atlanta United or the Columbus Crew in the Eastern Conference semifinals. There is some consensus but also some split thinking on that topic.

Here’s how No. 387 went down:

0:15 – The Lions won in Nashville for the second time in a month and this time the prize was a trip to the Eastern Conference semifinals.

35:14 – With the nerves of Round 1 behind our listeners, our mailbagbox was stuffed full of questions.

1:10:10 — A discussion of whether Orlando City fans should be rooting for Columbus or Atlanta to get out of the other Eastern Conference first-round series.

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We break down the match, in which Orlando attempted a lot of shots (for a change against Nashville) and got just enough of them to go in to get the victory. We discuss Wilder Cartagena's amazing goal, the job the defense did, and our score predictions from last week.

The mailbagbox was our second stop on the tour for this show. We were excited to talk about the offside rule, Orlando City's new celebrity minority owner, and our picks for the Lions' walk-out song. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we looked ahead to Game 2 at Nashville on Tuesday, dove into our key matchups for the game, and made our score predictions.  

Here’s how No. 386 went down:

0:15 – The Lions snatched Game 1 with another close win over Nashville. We break it down.

16:23 – We reach into our mailbagbox and pull out some great questions.

29:04 — It's time to preview Nashville again. We hope that the second verse is same as the first.

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After that, we welcome Orlando City midfielder and fullback Dagur Dan Thorhallsson back to the show. The young Icelandic player had a nice first season in purple and he talks with us a bit about the playoffs and what the Lions have to do to break down Nashville SC and to stop Hany Mukhtar — or at least slow him down. Big thanks to Dagur for returning to our podcast with a big match coming up.

After our recap, we checked the mailbagbox, which asked us about our soccer backgrounds as players, perfect albums, what Orlando City's philosophy should be this off-season, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we previewed Nashville SC, pointed out our key matchups for the game, and made our score predictions. 

Here’s how No. 385 went down:

0:15 – The MLS end-of-season awards finalists were released on Thursday and there were some Lions included and a couple of major (to us, anyway) snubs.

15:19 – Dagur Dan Thorhallsson returns to the show and now we can only expect something fantastic from his celebration if he scores in the playoffs.

32:42 — We answer some great questions in the mailbagbox and try to predict what will happen Monday night when the playoffs start for Orlando City.

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Former USMNT captain and now-former Toronto FC captain Michael Bradley was the unfortunate player who will forever be enshrined in the highlight for one of Orlando City's most excellent goals of the 2023 season. That man has a family, Duncan!

We broke down the Lions' win in Canada and make our unsurprisingly unanimous picks for Man of the Match.

After our recap, we dove into a good-sized mailbagbox that wanted to know things about Josef Martinez, MLS transfer mechanisms, most and least impressive Lions in 2023, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we looked ahead briefly at Orlando City's prize for finishing second in the entire league — a best-of-three date with defensively stingy Nashville SC.

Here’s how No. 384 went down:

0:15 – Orlando continues to run on Duncan. In this case...roughshod over Toronto FC.

26:22 – The mailbagbox has a variety of questions, including that one about Josef Martinez.

49:50 — A quick look at Orlando City's playoff schedule against Nashville and how in the world did the Lions end up second and facing such a difficult first-round opponent?

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Before we dove into our Toronto preview, however, we spent some time discussing several topics. We checked in on the Orlando City players who were with their national teams this past week, including Duncan McGuire, who scored his first goal with the U.S. U-23 squad. The Orlando rookie just keeps on impressing with almost everything he does.

We also spoke about the MLSPA salary reveal and how it affected Orlando City. Then we got sidetracked talking about Lionel Messi, and I'll take the blame for that because I really just wanted to talk about Pedro Gallese taking a pitch rusher's phone and launching it across the field when Peru played Argentina.

Our mailbagbox was very concerned about the futures of Oscar Pareja, Luiz Muzzi, and Ricardo Moreira. Our listeners also asked us about our new favorite things and how much we keep up with former Orlando City players when they leave and join new teams. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we gave our thoughts on the key matchups for Saturday's regular-season finale at BMO Field in Toronto and offered up our score predictions for Decision Day as well.

Here’s how No. 383 went down:

0:15 – Lions in the international window, a new promotion for Orlando City matches against Miami, and more.

24:05 – The mailbagbox isn't too empty or too full. It's just right.

44:08 — Here's what we think will happen on Decision Day in Toronto.

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Not only did the Lions win a game, but they also clinched the No. 2 spot in MLS. We get into what that means in terms of Orlando City's path through the postseason. But wait...there's more! By virtue of their strong finish in the league, the Lions will be going back to Concacaf Champions Cup (formerly Champions League). Orlando will once again take on the best in the confederation in search of silverware in 2024.

Rookie striker Duncan McGuire, who opened the scoring on Saturday, has been turning heads all season. We discuss his call-up to the U.S. U-23 camp and what it could mean for the Lions in 2024. Speaking of the U.S., the senior national team has a couple of big battles ahead during this international window, taking on Germany and Ghana. It will be interesting to see how things go against top-notch competition.

Our mailbagbox asked us about Orlando City's ability to close out games, playoff lineups and dates, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

And that's our show for this week. There is no match for the Lions this weekend, so we're only publishing once this week, but we'll be back next week to take care of any news we need to cover and we'll be getting ready for Orlando City's regular-season finale at Toronto FC.

Here’s how No. 382 went down:

0:15 – Revenge against the Revs is sweet.

19:09 – What clinching second place does for Orlando in the near and long term and big news for Duncan McGuire.

33:51 — Our mailbagbox calls on us to be truthful and as accurate as possible, but not concise.

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Jake Catanese from The Blazing Musket jumped on with us to tell us about the chaos that's been going on in New England in the wake of Bruce Arena's exit as coach of the Revolution. The Revs may be a bit discombobulated since the coaching change, but they still have Carles Gil and you can probably expect Gustavo Bou to play as well. Big thanks to Jake for both his Revolution knowledge and his friendship.

Our mailbagbox was jam packed! We were asked about Junior Urso, Orlando City's all-time Best XI, The Marvels, future Designated Player picks, and much more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

After touching briefly on the Lions on the nominee lists for the MLS end-of-season awards, we turned our attentino toward New England, presenting our key matchups for Saturday's game and our score predictions. It's another massive Eastern Conference battle heading into the international break.

Here’s how No. 381 went down:

0:15 – Winning ugly is still winning. And hey, Wednesday wasn't even that ugly if you like good defense.

14:40 – Jake Catanese jumps on with us and gives us the perspective of the New England Revolution fan.

33:06 — Our mailbagbox has never been this full before, plus our key matchups and predictions for Saturday.

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Orlando City B played its first MLS NEXT Pro playoff match and performed well on the road, but still lost 2-1 to Columbus Crew 2. The difference in the game was conceding two penalties. The Crew capitalized on both, despite the fact that Javier Otero saved one of them. In the end, there wasn't enough offense from OCB and two penalties conceded too many. Those kinds of mistakes are difficult to overcome anywhere, let alone on the road in the postseason. Still, it was a good season for the Young Lions and a much more entertaining one than we were expecting.

Our mailbagbox featured questions about grammar, becoming friends with past and present Lions, Michael Halliday's future, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we looked ahead to Wednesday's matchup against Nashville SC on the road, providing our key matchups and our score predictions for the Lions' penultimate road match of the 2023 regular season in a week that's shaping up to be critical in terms of where Orlando City will finish with regard to home field in the postseason.

Here’s how No. 380 went down:

0:15 – A complete victory over CF Montreal at home.

25:36 – OCB bows out of the playoffs quickly, but weird things happened, so you know it was an authentic Orlando City B match.

40:37 — Our mailbagbox has some interesting questions for us

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We also had plenty of OCB news to discuss, including the Young Lions' trip to Columbus to play Crew 2 this Sunday in the first round of the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro playoffs. The Crew chose OCB as their opponents, so it would be nice for the Young Lions to make the Ohio-based side pay for that decision. We also talked about "Big Jack" Lynn, who was named to the MLS NEXT Pro Best XI this week after winning a three-way share of the league's Golden Boot. We're rock guys who enjoy AC/DC, so we think "Big Jack" is a solid nickname for the young striker. What do you think?

An OCB defender is on his way to Brazil with the U-17 USMNT to play the host nation twice in friendly competition during the upcoming camp. We hope it's a great experience and that the U.S. brings home a pair of dubs.

We also looked in on former Lions Alexandre Pato and Sebas Mendez and discussed their recent trophy with Sao Paulo.

Our mailbagbox featured questions about parenthood, the Orlando City rivalry with Inter Miami, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we looked ahead to Saturday's matchup with CF Montreal at Exploria Stadium, providing our key matchups and our score predictions for the Lions' penultimate home match of the 2023 regular season.

Here’s how No. 379 went down:

0:15 – A smattering of news from Orlando City and OCB, as well as a trophy for two former Lions.

20:14 – Our mailbagbox has some great questions this time out and we predict what will happen Saturday vs. Montreal.

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On this episode, we break down Orlando City's 1-1 draw, with the curious and gutless officiating that once again helped the Herons keep 11 men on the pitch — something Tomas Aviles was determined to prevent in his 45 minutes of wearing the ugly, pink uniform on Sunday night. We also make our selections for Man of the Match (we were unanimous), and tell you which Lion made the MLS Team of the Matchday.

After our opening segment, we check our mailbagbox, only to find it surprisingly empty. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

OCB closed its MLS NEXT Pro regular season with a 2-1 win at home over FC Cincinnati. We discuss the Young Lions' victory and dive into Jack Lynn's wild pursuit of the league's Golden Boot. He ended up getting it, but some odd things happened to keep him from having to share it with two other players.

Here’s how No. 378 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City didn't win against Inter Miami, but the Lions also didn't lose.

20:47 – Our mailbagbox is empty, and we discuss OCB's win on Decision Day and Jack Lynn's pursuit of the Golden Boot.

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The Lions simply were unworthy of bringing three points home from New York City during the midweek.

That said, the team's body of work on the season was rewarded with the Lions' fourth postseason berth in as many years. We break down a game we didn't want to talk much about, check back on our score predictions, and make our unanimous pick for Man of the Match.

After that chore, we checked our mailbagbox, where we were asked about Orlando City's biggest rival. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

OCB will close the regular season with a home match, looking to secure fifth in the Eastern Conference when FC Cincinnati 2 visits Kissimmee on Sunday afternoon.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City vs. Inter Miami, discussing our key matchups and score predictions and voicing some concerns that the NYCFC loss doesn't turn into two.

Here’s how No. 377 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City and Ramiro Enrique went from high to low in just three days.

20:47 – Our mailbagbox and Orlando City B's task in the regular-season finale.

34:29 – Our key matchups and score predictions for Inter Miami's visit on Sunday.

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Following our look back at Saturday's win, we welcome Andrew Leigh from Hudson River Blue to discuss Wednesday's road game against New York City FC. The Lions haven't always fared well on the baseball diamonds in the north, and Andrew was kind enough to give us an update on the state of the Pigeons.

After our chat with Andrew, we discussed Orlando City B's playoff-clinching draw (followed by a shootout win) at Chicago Fire FC II. We honestly should have given this game more time but our Crew rewind and interview ran long (what else is new?), and the important thing is that the Young Lions are in the postseason.

We also looked into our mailbagbox, where we were asked about numerous things and we had an answer for all of them, including our three worst Orlando City moments. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City at New York City FC, giving you our key matchups and score predictions for the midweek match.

Here’s how No. 376 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City's massive comeback to down Columbus at the death.

34:09 – Andrew Leigh tells us all about New York City FC and playing on baseball fields.

59:05 – OCB in the MLS NEXT Pro playoffs, our mailbagbox, and our key matchups and predictions for the Lions' trip to play NYCFC on Wednesday.

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After that brief check-in with the USMNT — and please forgive our lack of recapping a somewhat meh 1-1 road draw by OCB at New England Revolution II and the Young Lions' subsequent shootout loss — we welcomed Collin Johnson from Massive Report to the program to give us all of the information on Orlando City's opponents tomorrow night, the Columbus Crew. Collin did a great job of getting us up to speed on all things Columbus, including how new players like Diego Rossi are fitting into Wilfried Nancy's system.

Big apologies to our founders for not notifying you in advance of our guest for this show, but it wasn't confirmed until we were within an hour of recording time, so it came together quite late.

After our chat with Collin, we looked into our mailbagbox, where we were asked to chronologically predict some suggested big evens in a possible MLS future. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

We looked ahead to OCB's big match tonight on the road against Chicago Fire FC II, and, finally, previewed Orlando City vs. Columbus, complete with our key matchups and score predictions.

Here’s how No. 375 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City was off last weekend so we discussed the USMNT's two matches in the international window.

11:28 – Collin Johnson from Massive Report jumps on and gives us a comprehensive overview of the Columbus Crew.

29:05 – Our mailbagbox, OCB's impending game at Chicago, and our key matchups and predictions for Saturday's date with the Crew.

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We broke down a nervy and hard-fought match in southwest Ohio, with the lads in purple coming out on top despite the loss of Duncan McGuire early on due to a shoulder injury. His replacement, Ramiro Enrique, managed to figure prominently in the winning goal.

We checked back out our incorrect score predictions and made our selections for Man of the Match. We were split this time out.

We also broke down the Ercan Kara transfer to Samsunspor. We knew the striker depth would become thinner if the move happened, but we didn't expect that to matter so quickly.

OCB had a huge match at home on Sunday but things didn't go well in the first half for the Young Lions and the hole was too deep to dig out of in a wild 6-3 loss to Crown Legacy. The games are dwindling for OCB to clinch a playoff spot and the matches ahead aren't easy, but a Jack Lynn brace always makes for a more exciting experience when watching the Young Lions

Our mailbagbox asked us about what Orlando City can / will do for more striker depth to see out the season and players who have revived their careers after coming to Orlando City. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Here’s how No. 374 went down:

0:15 – The Lions managed to become the first team to beat FC Cincinnati on its home field despite losing Duncan McGuire early.

30:14 – What the Ercan Kara transfer means moving forward in light of McGuire's injury, which is hopefully not a longterm thing.

37:22 – OCB-Crown Legacy was another wild MLS NEXT Pro affair and we dipped into our mailbagbox.

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Charlotte came out with a great deal of energy and Orlando City struggled to match it. The Lions eventually settled into the game and created some of the game's best scoring chances, but struggled to finish when they stayed onside. A late penalty seemed to hand all the points to Charlotte again, but a little fortune fell Orlando City's way when a long-range Martin Ojeda set piece fell kindly after clearing every player on the pitch, allowing the Lions to escape with a hard-fought road point. We've got the full game breakdown and our selections for Man of the Match.

Following our recap, we break down the reports of Samsunspor's interest in Ercan Kara and what that means for Orlando City through the rest of 2023.

Geoff Tebbetts from Cincinnati Soccer Talk joined us to help us prepare for Orlando City's trip to southwestern Ohio this Saturday to face the Supporters' Shield leaders, FC Cincinnati. The Lions last saw FCC early in the season when the teams played to a 0-0 draw at Exploria Stadium. Geoff is the host of their Jersey Swap podcast and he did a great job of catching us up on the latest happenings in Cincy.

Our mailbagbox was a bit light for this episode but we can only answer the questions you send us, and you asked us about Ercan Kara and about Folarin Balogun going to Monaco. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

OCB has a tall task ahead on Sunday and the Young Lions will probably have to face Crown Legacy without the likes of Jack Lynn, Abdi Salim, and potentially Thomas Williams. That's not ideal.

Finally, we discussed Saturday's matchup between Orlando City and FC Cincinnati. We've got our key matchups and score predictions for you.

Here’s how No. 373 went down:

0:15 – The Lions struggled in the attack but scratched back to earn a point in Charlotte.

35:54 – We welcome Geoff from Cincinnati Soccer Talk to preview the Lions' trip to face the Supporters' Shield leaders.

54:06 – A look in the mailbagbox, OCB to face Crown Legacy without some key players, and our key matchups and score predictions for the Lions' trip to Cincinnati.

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It's a win that should build some confidence for the Lions, which is good, because they're about to go on the road to face two teams they haven't beaten this year — both on short rest. We broke down the win over St. Louis City and selected our unanimous Man of the Match.

Our mailbagbox was interested in our thoughts on what would happen if national teams played in their domestic leagues and how Nicholas Gioacchini left Orlando. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

After the mailbagbox, we broke down a pivotal win by OCB over Columbus Crew 2 on Sunday night in Kissimmee. The Young Lions struck first, forced a Crew player to take a second yellow card, and then cruised to an easy win over a difficult opponent. Considering what's still left on OCB's schedule, that was an important victory in the team's MLS NEXT Pro playoff push.

Finally, we discussed Wednesday night's matchup between Orlando City and Charlotte FC. The Lions will hope the third time is the charm after suffering a home MLS loss and a road U.S. Open Cup defeat to Charlotte in a pair of hard-fought games. We've got our score predictions and key matchups for you.

Here’s how No. 372 went down:

0:15 – The Lions enjoyed a big win over Western Conference-leading St. Louis City and we have your talking points from the match.

27:18 – We answer our listeners' mailbagbox questions and break down OCB vs. Columbus Crew 2.

46:30 – Our key matchups and score predictions for the Lions' trip to Charlotte.

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Big thanks to Robin for his time, and we hope you enjoy the interview as much as we did.

Our mailbagbox was surprisingly empty, even though we recorded on Dave's birthday and, as you know, Dave loves the mailbagbox. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we discussed Saturday night's matchup between Orlando City and St. Louis City. The two teams will be meeting for the first time and a familiar face is leading the expansion side in goal scoring. We give you our key matchups and score predictions for Saturday.

Here’s how No. 371 went down:

0:15 – Our show intro goes a little sideways because it was Dave's birthday

5:26 – Robin Jansson stops by to talk to us about the season so far.

25:51 – A quick (but futile) look in our mailbagbox, plus our key matchups and score predictions for the Lions vs. the best in the West.

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We welcomed Junior Urso back to the field for Orlando City and also welcomed Michael Halliday back to the field for the first time in quite a while. Plus, justice for Wilder Cartagena!

After our breakdown of the game, we handed out our Man of the Match selections.

Our mailbagbox asked about our EPL predictions and Marvel superheroes as soccer players. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

With the return of the MLS regular season, we are back to our twice-a-week format, so be sure to get your questions in for our next recording on Thursday night. As always, thanks for listening.

Here’s how No. 370 went down:

0:15 – The Lions looked lively to start the match but the first half was scoreless only due to a mistake by Chicago's striker.

16:12 – Orlando City needed a slap in the face early in the second half to wake up, but once the Lions did that, it was glorious.

35:09 – A brief look ahead to the next Orlando City and OCB matches and our mailbagbox.

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That wasn't all the OCB news, as Orlando City signed 14-year-old midfielder Gustavo Caraballo to a multi-year MLS NEXT Pro contract. Caraballo becomes the youngest professional signing in the club's history and hopefully he can make his way from the academy through OCB to a career with the first team.

Our mailbagbox asked about tracking Lionel Messi favoritism, Doctor Who, and baby names. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, Orlando City returns to action this Sunday on the road against the Chicago Fire. We provided our key matchups for the game and made attempts to predict the final score this weekend. We'll have to check to see how wrong we were next week.

As a programming note, there will not be a second show this week. We'll return to our normal two-shows-per-week schedule next week.

Here’s how No. 369 went down:

0:15 – OCB got a pair of braces in a wild, comeback victory in New York City.

24:49 – A new Young Lion appears!

29:38 – The mailbagbox and what we think will happen at Soldier Field on Sunday night.

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Our mailbagbox asked about European teams and players, as well as what constitutes success for Orlando City in 2023. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, Orlando City B midfielder Alejandro Granados was sold to Belgian side Club Brugge. The club did not release the financial details but multiple online reports had the Lions making a cool $2 million for the Spanish youth international. We discuss the rare academy business the club wrapped up.

As a programming note, there will not be a second show this week, as there is no Orlando City match. We'll recap tonight's OCB game next week, combining it with the Young Lions' trip to play NYCFC II.

Here’s how No. 368 went down:

0:15 – OCB struggled to score on the road despite opportunities.

18:45 – The mailbagbox beckons and we've got answers to all questions.

35:15 – An academy sale!

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We broke down Orlando City's breakdowns and those of the officiating crew, made our Man of the Match selections, and look forward to catching our breath during the down time between now and Aug. 20. We also discussed how I told you so with regard to Messi, only it was worse than I even imagined it could be.

Our mailbagbox asked about Orlando City player name pronunciations and Marvel's Secret Invasion. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we discussed OCB's 2-1 loss at New York Red Bulls II, and looked ahead to their upcoming trip to face Inter Miami II. And we wrapped up by discussing this strange down time we suddenly have midseason.

Here’s how No. 367 went down:

0:15 – A night we'll never forget for all the wrong reasons (a.k.a. why Ivan Barton will never be welcome in Orlando).

30:55 – The mailbagbox calls, and since we love it, we obviously answer.

44:05 – Time for some OCB talk and how we'll spend the time between Orlando City matches.

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We also discussed how the Lions' group shook out after the round robin matches were played and made our selections for Man of the Match.

We then checked our mailbagbox, which featured questions from our listeners about injuries, contracts, and Leagues Cup picks. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

OCB was in the process of playing New York Red Bulls II on the road while we were recording, so we'll have to save that breakdown for our next show.

Finally, we gave our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City's road match in the Tropic Thunder series against Inter Miami on Wednesday.

Here’s how No. 366 went down:

0:15 – A three-goal outburst to oust Liga MX's Santos Laguna and claim the group.

21:03 – The mailbagbox demands our responses, we touch on what was happening in the OCB match, and we denigrated Inter Miami for a few minutes.

41:22 – Our key matchups and score predictions for the Leagues Cup Round of 32 match Wednesday at Inter Miami. 

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The only Leagues Cup South 2 group stage match that doesn't involve Orlando City took place in Houston on Tuesday night, as the Dynamo played copycat and drew Santos Laguna, before then beating the Liga MX side in penalties. We scouted the game and have the scenarios for advancing for you.

We then dove into our mailbagbox, which asked us about a potential expansion slot for Louisville. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

OCB is off to face New York Red Bulls II on the road Monday. After a brief parley about that, we dive into our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City's home match against Santos Laguna in 2023 Leagues Cup play on Saturday.

Here’s how No. 365 went down:

0:15 – EPL teams duked it out at Exploria Stadium and we discuss Houston vs. Santos Laguna in Leagues Cup play.

23:26 – A visit to the mailbagbox.

36:47 – Key matchups and score predictions 

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We break down a game Orlando should not have needed penalty kick heroics (although those were fun and exciting to watch). We also select our Man of the Match and check back on our score predictions.

We then dove into our mailbagbox to answer questions about coaches' challenges and whether or not Martin Ojeda should have given up No. 11 for Junior Urso. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

After the mailbagbox, we discuss the upcoming Fulham-Aston Villa friendly at Exploria Stadium on Wednesday. And finally, we dissected another crazy Orlando City B match. The Young Lions took the early lead, fell behind, then rallied for a big 3-2 home win over Chicago Fire FC II, and it was just OCB being OCB. Get to one of the Young Lions' games soon because you never know what's going to happen.

Here’s how No. 364 went down:

0:15 – The Lions probably deserved all three points against the Dynamo but they'll have to settle for two.

19:37 – We dip into the mailbagbox and touch on a midweek club friendly at Exploria Stadium.

33:52 – OCB plays yet another wild game and comes out on top. 

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Ricardo was extremely generous with his time in giving us thoughtful and comprehensive answers to the questions we asked him, as well as the questions sent in by our TML Founders. Huge thanks to Ricardo and the Orlando City communications staff for facilitating the interview. It was a lot of fun and informative as well.

Before our chat with our special guest, we discussed what Junior Urso's return means to Orlando City. It's great to have the Bear back, bringing depth and experience to a young team. We are excited to see how he fits into the rotation. We also discussed a couple of transfer rumors — one that seems likely regarding Alejandro Granados potentially heading to Europe, and one that seems less likely about the Lions being interested in USMNT fullback Bryan Reynolds.

We also discuss what the Leagues Cup is, a bit about the format, what Orlando City's path is to the knockout round, and what might wait for the Lions if they reach the Round of 32.

After our discussion with Moreira, we answered several of your questions in our mailbagbox. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we touched on what OCB has coming up this weekend and gave our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City vs. the Houston Dynamo in Leagues Cup action Friday night.

Here’s how No. 363 went down:

0:15 – The Bear is back, some transfer rumors, and Leagues Cup talk.

25:20 – Ricardo Moreira drops some knowledge on us.

57:31 – Our mailbagbox, OCB, and what we expect to see on Friday.

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We discussed the key talking points of the game, checked in on our predictions (which were wrong), and made our selections for Man of the Match.

This week's mailbagbox was impressively full, and you guys had a lot of variety in your questions. We did our best to answer them fully, if not succinctly. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we broke down a crazy game in Kissimmee between OCB and Atlanta United 2. Just when you thought the Young Lions were going up a man, they went down a man instead, and despite falling behind in the second half with fewer players on the field, they still managed to control most of the 90 minutes against their rivals to the north. It was an absolutely bananas game and we can't wait to see what OCB does next.

Here’s how No. 362 went down:

0:15 – Our breakdown of an enjoyable win on the road against Atlanta United.

34:59 – This week's mailbagbox is bursting at the seams!

58:52 – Another insane OCB game saw the Young Lions overcome a deficit and a team with

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Orlando City's development academy has a new director and we talked a bit about Javier Carrillo and the task he has in continuing OCSC's rise in the academy ranks, where the U-15 and U-17 teams routinely are getting good results in major tournaments.

Speaking of development teams, OCB has a big match coming up Sunday at home against Atlanta United 2. Let's hope the third time is the charm for the Young Lions against the...I dunno...Baby Five Stripes?

We then opened up our mailbagbox and answered questions about the now-defunct indoor Orlando SeaWolves as well as what we've been reading. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

The USMNT's run in the Gold Cup came to a disappointing end and we weighed in with some thoughts on both that roster and the tournament performances.

Finally, we provided our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City's trip to play Atlanta United on Saturday.

Here’s how No. 361 went down:

0:15 – A look at which positions Orlando City could improve upon in this window if improvements are made.

25:56 – A new academy director, OCB's next opponent, and our mailbagbox.

43:43 – A poor Gold Cup outing (both in the game and tournament) by the USMNT and our key matchups and predictions for Orlando City at Atlanta United.

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We break down the breakdowns, look back at our score predictions, and figure out who to select as Man of the Match.

Orlando City has a new player but it's a familiar face, as the Lions rewarded the standout play of goalkeeper Javier Otero with a Homegrown Player contract. Otero has done a lot to help OCB the last two seasons although there's only so much he can do sometimes.

The mailbagbox questions for this episode include queries about allocation money tracking and transfer season. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

OCB went to Huntsville, and aside from Jack Lynn and Alex Freeman scoring goals, there's not much we'll want to remember about this match either. It's best to just be a goldfish for both the men's teams' results from this weekend.

Finally, we also touched a little on the USMNT's Gold Cup quarterfinal matchup against Canada, which was a wild game.

Here’s how No. 360 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City did not do well in Utah. At all.

21:12 – Mailbagbox questions are really putting us to the test this week. We'd love to know as much as you guys hope we do.

43:56 – OCB's offense was better than Orlando City's this weekend but the Young Lions were far worse defensively.

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The mailbagbox questions for this episode wanted to know what things we've done recently four times in 90 minutes. We've got answers! Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

OCB will be back in action on Sunday night, with a kickoff time sandwiched between the United States women and the USMNT matches. (There I go with a second sandwich reference. I must be hungry.)

Finally, we gave our key matchups and score predictions for Saturday night's late match between Orlando City and Real Salt Lake.

Here’s how No. 359 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City dominated Toronto FC...which...they really should have.

23:09 – It's mailbagbox time!

33:47 – Our key matchups and score predictions for a trip to Utah 

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Orlando City is coming off a 3-1 home victory over the Chicago Fire, with Facundo Torres adding two more goals and Ramiro Enrique getting on the scoresheet. We break down a fun match at Exploria Stadium in which the Lions could once again have allowed a late equalizer, but instead chose violence and put the opposition away. We make our selections for Man of the Match and see how we did with regard to our score predictions.

Our mailbag segment was unexpectedly short, but if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

OCB was in action on Sunday evening and it was a crazy game at FC Cincinnati 2, with the Young Lions falling behind twice and coming back from two goals down to win 5-3 in a wild, eight-goal thriller. If that game were a person, they'd need an Uber home because that was one intoxicated match. We try to make sense of it for you.

Finally, we gave our key match-ups and score predictions for tonight's matchup between Orlando City and Toronto FC at Exploria Stadium.

Here’s how No. 358 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City doused the Fire on Saturday and Facu is flying high.

26:08 – A brief mailbagbox and our thoughts on OCB's road win at Cincy.

52:53 – Key matchups and score predictions for the first meeting with Toronto this season.

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OCB hosted Philadelphia Union II, looking to keep its unbeaten home streak intact. That did not, in fact, happen. The Union kids came in and took all three points in a lopsided 3-0 win over the Young Lions. The stats say the game should have yielded OCB a better result, but with the visitors striking twice in the first 21 minutes, the final stats are usually not going to reflect the outcome. OCB was unable to break through and make a game of it, both before and after the storm hit, and ultimately the home streak has been broken and the Young Lions will need to recoup those dropped points on the road. We discuss the reserve side's difficult night.

In more positive news, OCB and Orlando City Development Academy defender Tahir Reid-Brown has been selected to the 2023 MLS NEXT All-Star Game. We know he'll represent the club well.

We were then joined by Ruben Tisch, the managing editor at The Lantern, (formerly Hot Time in Old Town), which is a new subscription-based Chicago Fire newsletter since leaving SBNation. Ruben was generous with his time, letting us know about how Kei Kamara has fit in with the Fire, what former Lion Chris Mueller brought to the team before his injury, what his expectations are for Saturday night, and more. Big thanks to Ruben for his time.

We obviously checked our mailbagbox to find questions about how to deprive Messi fans of tickets in Orlando, what might become of Ercan Kara, and our music-related tifo choices. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we gave our key match-ups and score predictions for Saturday night's matchup between Orlando City and the Chicago Fire at Exploria Stadium.

Here’s how No. 357 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City B did not have a very good night on Wednesday in Kissimmee.

10:37 – Ruben Tisch jumps on the show and tells us that he's not overly concerned with any individual Orlando City player.

29:20 – Our mailbagbox, key matchups, and score predictions.

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It was a good, yet simultaneously frustrating, result.

We give our thoughts on the game, touch on Mikey Halliday's apparent hamstring injury, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

We obviously checked our mailbagbox to see what's on your mind. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

We briefly touched on OCB's busy schedule in the coming week before diving into a discussion about The Beautiful Game, a legends match at Exploria Stadium on Friday night that was cut short due to weather and misbehaving fans who refused to stay off the field of play. What can MLS and security teams around the country learn from this game for when Lionel Messi arrives? We discuss both the entertaining aspect of the game, Nani's return to Orlando, and why people think it's OK to disrupt sporting events and ruin it for everyone else.

Here’s how No. 356 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City did everything right except score a goal in Seattle. The Lions still haven't beaten the Sounders at Lumen Field, but they have taken four out of six points in the last two meetings overall.

18:18 – Mailbagbox time and a quick peek at the upcoming OCB schedule.

33:49 – The Beautiful Game lived up to its name until it didn't. 

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We also touched on the return of Orlando City's international stars and Ivan Angulo's loan extension, which will keep him in the City Beautiful until the end of the 2023 season.

Dave Clark from Sounder at Heart then joins us to help us preview the Lions' trip to the Pacific Northwest to face the Seattle Sounders late Saturday night (well, late for us on the East Coast, anyway). The Lions have never won at Lumen Field, but perhaps Dave gives us the secret that will allow Orlando City to break that trend. Big thanks to Dave for coming on with us and giving us all the info we need about the Sounders.

After our chat with Dave, it was mailbagbox time! We answered your most pressing questions of the week. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we presented our key matchups and score predictions for the Lions' trip to see the Space Needle.

Here’s how No. 355 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City couldn't hang onto the lead against Philadelphia, although not having a goal chalked off would have helped.

35:25 – Dave Clark discusses the 2023 Seattle Sounders' trials and tribulations.

37:15 – The mailbagbox and our key matchups and score predictio

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We broke down the match in our usual haphazard style and selected our Man of the Match. We also discussed Juninho's MLS debut and how some call-ups affected OCB going into Chicago shorthanded. We then went over the Young Lions' 1-0 loss to Chicago Fire II, which we did not at all enjoy.

Matt Ralph, the managing editor of Philadelphia Soccer Now jumped on with us to give us an update on how things are going with the Union since Orlando City's 2-1 win snapped Philadelphia's long, home unbeaten run earlier this season. It turns out the Union are still good and Matt gave us some insight on how the team has been playing, which big name might be out of the lineup for Philly, and which players are sometimes not at their best. Big thanks to Matt for joining us on what has been a busy week of covering soccer for him.

Following our discussion with Matt, we dove into the mailbagbox and answered questions about the Gio Reyna, the USMNT, and our opinions of a women's version of the U.S. Open Cup. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we presented our key matchups and score predictions for the Lions' home matchup against the Union on Wednesday.

Here’s how No. 354 went down:

0:15 – Orlando City couldn't handle the Revolution on the road. OCB likewise struggled in Chicago.

19:39 – Matt Ralph lets us know what's new with the Union since the Lions won in Philadelphia.

40:36 – The mailbagbox and our key matchups an

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Sam Minton from The Blazing Musket joins us this week to give us the scoop on what's been going on in New England this year. Just like The Mane Land, our friends who support the Revolution have left SBNation, but unlike us, they are operating as a Substack newsletter. Sam told us about the Revs' missing players, but they won't be without as many key guys, and that seems like an advantage for a team that has never lost at home to Orlando City. In other words, they don't need any more help. Big thanks to Sam for his time and for dropping the Revs knowledge on us.

After our talk with Sam, we jump into our mailbagbox to answer anything you asked us. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we gathered our thoughts on the key matchups for Saturday's game and made our bold score predictions.

Here’s how No. 353 went down:

0:15 – Depth is good until you use it and there's no more behind it.

15:56 – Sam Minton jumps on to update us on all things Revolution.

31:40 – The mailbagbox and our key matchups and score predictions for Saturday's trip to Gillette Stadium.

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Facundo Torres made his second consecutive MLS Team of the MatchDay, Ramiro Enrique opened his Orlando City account, Alejandro Granados made his MLS debut, and several Lions won't be available next week when the team travels to New England.

OCB exploded for four goals on Sunday to rout FC Cincinnati 2 by a final score of 4-0 that could have been even worse for the visitors. Jack Lynn scored again, because of course he did, while two Young Lions scored their first of the season and first-team fullback Luca Petrasso set up Shak Mohammed on a nice goal. We break down a big win at Osceola Heritage Park by OCB, which was subsequently crowned the MLS NEXT Pro Team of the Matchday.

Our mailbagbox was quite full and asked us questions about suspensions, Messi, and taking a job with the Professional Referee Organization. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

We'll be back later in the week to prepare for Orlando City's trip to play the Revolution in Massachusetts.

Here’s how No. 352 went down:

0:15 – The Lions took advantage of Colorado's gaffes and got a much-needed home win.

20:48 – OCB mangled FC Cincinnati 2 on Sunday to stay unbeaten at home.

33:22 – The mailbagbox awaits!

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Matt Pollard has been busy repositioning former SBNation Colorado Rapids blog Burgundy Wave into a Patreon-funded site and he joins us to help us preview Saturday's opponents from the Western Conference. Big thanks to Matt for giving us the inside scoop.

Our mailbagbox allowed us to steal a player from any rival team, which is kind of a neat idea, and MLS should just let us do it. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we dove into our key matchups and score predictions for the Colorado Rapids' visit to Central Florida this weekend.

Here’s how No. 351 went down:

0:15 – Inter Miami plans to sign yet another DP.

31:35 – Matt Pollard joins us to tell us what's up with the Rapids this season.

52:04 – The mailbagbox and what we think will happen on Saturday vs. Colorado.

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We broke down Orlando's win in the Garden State and selected our Man of the Match. We also touched on several Lions who were honored for their performances in that game. Oh, and Mikey Halliday is coming home, which is good, but it's because the U-20 USMNT lost in the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup quarterfinals, which is bad.

After our review of Saturday's match, we opened up the mailbagbox. Among this week's topics were Targeted Allocation Money and buying down Designated Players, along with home form vs. road form. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we discussed a disjointed Orlando City B performance north of the border against Toronto FC II. The Young Lions never seemed in this game and the warning bells were chiming loudly just 17 seconds into the match. It was not a fun night for OCB.

Here’s how No. 350 went down:

0:15 – The Lions didn't have their sharpest passing night, but they put the ball in the net three times, which is always a welcome sight.

33:42 – OCB had a very bad night in Canada.

42:31 – The mailbagbox beckons and we don't claim to be experts on the weird player-signing mechanisms in MLS.

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Orlando City B took center stage early this week with a rare Monday night match against New York Red Bulls II. The Young Lions jumped out to an early lead, fell behind by halftime, and managed to stage a comeback to claim all three points. OCB remains unbeaten at home in 2023 after a wild match that of course featured some Jack Lynn heroics.

We discuss the Young Lions' win over the Baby Bulls and Lynn's torrid streak. Also, we've had more Shak Mohammed sightings recently, as the 19-year-old Ghanaian has been playing better of late with OCB and he scored his first professional goal on Monday night to win the match. It's a great sign from the Generation Adidas draft pick and we look forward to watching his continued development.

After our OCB recap, we opened up the mailbagbox to find a question about Ted Lasso. Don't worry, we handled it with care to keep listeners spoiler-free. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City's upcoming match Saturday night at Red Bull Arena. We included our key matchups and score predictions as the senior Lions take on New York on the road.

Here’s how No. 349 went down:

0:15 – The Young Lions get top billing for this episode. That's new.

16:43 – The mailbagbox believes! Our thoughts on Coach Beard's revelation from the show's penultimate episode (without spoiling the revelation for those who are behind).

30:41 – Key matchups were unanimous and we've got score predictions for the Lions at the Red Bulls.

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We break down the Lions vs. Atlanta United and give our selections for Man of the Match. We also checked back to see how our predictions went and discussed Smith's MLS honor this week.

We switched gears and opened our mailbagbox, making a co-ed team consisting of Orlando City and Pride players, and talked a little music as well. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we discussed Orlando City B's 1-0 road win at Inter Miami II (courtesy of another Jack Lynn goal), a big international moment for Alejandro Granados, and more.

Here’s how No. 348 went down:

0:15 – The hated Atlanta United came to town and stole two points at the end because they're like that.

12:54 – The mailbagbox and a five-star review to add to the pile.

25:00 – OCB took three more points out of DRV PNK Stadium to bring home to Orlando.

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We're back with a second show in between rivalry matches and we're joined by Orlando City defender Kyle Smith! It's about darn time we had Kyle on the show and we're very thankful for his time.

Before our interview with Kyle, we updated some Orlando City news items and then had a breakout discussion from one of our mailbagbox questions. We selected our Bext XI from Orlando City's history. There were some difficult decisons, but honestly, we felt like most of the spots were pretty easy to pick.

After that, Kyle jumped on with us to patiently answer multiple questions about whether he is, in fact, an accountant or wants to become one. On more topical pursuits, we asked Kyle his approach from week to week when he's not sure which side of the field he'll be playing on or even what position he might play. He also told us who his most difficult opponent in MLS has been, as well as what it's like to face former Orlando City teammates when they move on to another team.

We then shifted back to the mailbagbox for some questions that didn't require quite so much research and thought, and enjoyed a couple more questions that were embedded in a five-star review on Apple podcasts.

Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we discussed this weekend's game as Orlando City hosts Atlanta United, giving our key matchups and our score prediction for another Southeast Showdown between the two bordering states.

Here’s how No. 347 went down:

0:15 – Who made the cut on our all-time Orlando City Best XI and how many of them are currently on the roster?

22:33 – Orlando City defender Kyle Smith jumps on with us and we chat about nicknames and some soccer stuff.

38:27 – Back to the mailbagbox and our preview of the Atlanta match.

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Following our match rewind, we welcome The Mane Land Platinum Founder Samuel Atkinson to the program. Samuel wanted to talk about Orlando City and MLS salaries, and we had an interesting chat about the league's pay structure and how OCSC fits into the grand scheme of things. Big thanks to Samuel for the chat, and for his help in us getting our footing as an independent website.

We also discussed Orlando City B's comeback against Atlanta United 2. The Young Lions battled back valiantly and probably deserved more than one point based on overall play, but any time a team is down multiple goals and takes any points out of the match, it can only be viewed as a positive.

Finally, we dipped into the mailbagbox and answered listener questions about soccer position numbers, movie franchises that overstayed their welcome, and former Lion Chris Mueller. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

We'll be back later in the week to prepare for Orlando City's upcoming match against Atlanta United.

Here’s how No. 346 went down:

0:15 – The Lions brought all the points home from Fort Lauderdale. That's the optimal outcome.

19:11 – Orlando City salary and Designated Player chat with one of our Platinum Founders.

43:37 – OCB battled for the full 90 against Atlanta United 2, plus a full mailbagbox.

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Following our match rewind, we welcome Ian Hest, founder and host of The Heron Outlet to the program for the first time. Ian and his group cover Inter Miami CF via social media and also their Substack. He was kind enough to join us to help us preview Orlando City's trip south on the Florida Turnpike for Saturday's Tropic Thunder matchup. He gave us the scoop on what Miami is doing well and not doing well so far this season.

Following our chat with Ian, we dipped into our mailbagbox, where we discussed Orlando City's biggest regional rival and biggest rivals outside of the southeastern United States. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City at Inter Miami, providing our score predictions and discussing the key matchups.

Here’s how No. 345 went down:

0:15 – Our breakdown of Orlando City's unsatisfying home draw against the Pigeons.

20:50 – Ian Hest from The Heron Outlet jumps on and tells us about his side in Saturday's Tropic Thunder matchup.

34:56 – Our mailbag and our key matchups and score 

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After breaking down that draw against the Crew, we were joined by Andrew Leigh, senior editor over at Hudson River Blue, a New York City FC-centric blog. Like us, HRB was in the SBNation network and now must make a go of it independently. Andrew told us what he expects to see Wednesday and what he's seen all season so far from NYCFC.

Following our chat with Andrew, we looked back at an OCB loss to Crew 2 that we wish we hadn't seen. It was an ugly 4-0 affair and the Young Lions never seemed really in the match.

Our mailbagbox asked us to rate an Orlando City lineup that our own Ryan Smith came up with, to explain why the Lions aren't hitting the target, and to enlighten folks as to how we determine player grades. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City vs. New York City FC on Wednesday, providing our score predictions and discussing the key matchups.

Here’s how No. 344 went down:

0:15 – Our breakdown of a tale of two halves in Columbus.

17:22 – Andrew Leigh enlightens us on the changes in NYC.

34:14 – An extended OCB Minute, our mailbagbox, and a look ahead a

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Orlando City followed up its 2022 U.S. Open Cup championship with a one-and-done entry in the competition in 2023 with Tuesday night's 1-0 loss at Charlotte FC. Overall, the Lions did almost everything they had to do in order to advance with a road win — with the major exception of putting the ball in the old onion bag. Eleven shot attempts isn't a ton, but it's enough, as long as you don't miss the net 11 times. Charlotte only got six looks and put four of them on target, scoring once. That turned out to be enough to knock Orlando City out of the tournament.

We break down what went well and what didn't, and make our selections for Man of the Match.

Do these Lions lack swagger? We discussed whether the team needs a little more charisma and passion in its leadership as it had when the likes of Nani and Junior Urso were the veterans that everyone looked up to.

Our mailbagbox asked us which Orlando City prospects we were excited to see join the senior side in the coming years. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City at the Columbus Crew this Saturday, making our score predictions and discussing the key matchups in the match.

Here’s how No. 343 went down:

0:15 – A look back at an unsatisfying result in Charlotte.

32:23 – The mailbagbox beckons.

40:26 – A look ahead at the Crew and what we think will happen on Saturday.

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We've got our thoughts on Orlando's 2-0 loss in Montreal and make our Man of the Match selection.

OCB went on the road for a first-place battle against Crown Legacy FC. I don't know why I always want to call them Crown Royal but I'll bet it has nothing to do with how much soccer makes me want to drink sometimes. We talk about how the Young Lions had first place in the Eastern Conference in their grasp — until they didn't.

After that, we're joined by Danny Brams from the Charlotte Soccer Show. Danny and his ilk do a solid job with their Charlotte FC fan podcast and we were fortunate that he agreed to come on and get us up to date with what's going on with Orlando City's opponent tonight in the U.S. Open Cup.

We had a great time answering your mailbagbox questions. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City at Charlotte FC, including our key matchups and score predictions for tonight.

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

Here’s how No. 342 went down:

0:15 – A look back at the Montreal game and what went wrong/right.

22:08 – Danny Brams from the Charlotte Soccer Show joins us to give us an update on the goings-on in North Carolina.

38:27 – A reminder about our premium subscription membership program, our mailbagbox and our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City at Charlotte FC.

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After a brief description of the membership levels, we dive into what a crazy month awaits the Lions, starting tomorrow night at CF Montreal. This month is a vital one in Orlando City's fortunes in 2023, with several key Eastern Conference matches and the start of the Lions' participation in the 2023 U.S. Open Cup.

We're delighted to bring you our exclusive interview with Orlando City midfielder Dagur Dan Thorhallsson, as the Iceland native joined us to answer a lot of questions and probably more from our Founders than from us, if we go back and count. Dagur Dan was a great guest and — you heard it here first — he loves the mailbagbox!

Speaking of that mailbagbox, it was devoid of your questions this week but hopefully we can answer anything you ask us next time.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City at CF Montreal, including our key matchups and score predictions for Saturday’s match.

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

Here’s how No. 341 went down:

0:15 – Our new TML membership program is up and running and May is a month that can make or break Orlando City's 2023 season.

25:40 – Dagur Dan jumps on with us and the Icelandic midfielder answers a ton of questions — ours and yours.

42:07 – Our mailbagbox was empty, but we're bringing you our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City at CF Montrea

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We break down Orlando City's win, including the return of Mikey Halliday and Ercan Kara — both key factors in the victory — the awesome display by the center backs, and some well-worked team goals. We choose a unanimous Man of the Match and tell you which Lions made Team of the Matchday.

The Lions also got their U.S. Open Cup championship rings on Monday and they're cool. We would like to have one but we did not win the U.S. Open Cup.

OCB left it late but came on strong in the final 10 minutes to equalize and then take the lead against Toronto FC II at home on Sunday. The Young Lions remain unbeaten at home and a strong early contender in the MLS NEXT Pro Eastern Conference race. We'll tell you who scored and talk you through OCB's latest win.

Finally, we dove into our mailbagbox to answer your questions about Orlando City's midfield and striker positions. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us anything by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

Here’s how No. 340 went down:

0:15 – The Lions win at home! The three DPs played (well) together! We'd like to get used to this.

26:50 – OCB won at home again but this time in dramatic fashion, overcoming two deficits and breaking Toronto FC II hearts.

35:36 – The mailbagbox had some mail in it and we love it, so we answered that mail.

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We're joined by Alicia Rodriguez who has spent the last few years writing for LAG Confidential — a former SBNation blog that is going to launch an independent site in the near future — and the author of the Soccermusings Substack newsletter. Alicia helps us break down what we can expect from the LA Galaxy this Saturday night when they visit Exploria Stadium to play Orlando City.

We also had our second mailbagbox of the week, following the questions we answered in Episode 338. This time out, the listeners asked us to play general manager, to decide whether Arsenal is a "super club," whether Tata Martino would be a good fit at Orlando City if Oscar Pareja left, and more. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us anything by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City vs. the LA Galaxy including our key matchups and score predictions for Saturday’s match.

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

Here’s how No. 339 went down:

0:15 – We can panic later. There's no reason to do so now.

16:39 – Alicia Rodriguez enlightens us about all things LA Galaxy.

35:35 – Our mailbagbox and our key matchups and score predictions for Orlando City vs. the LA Galaxy.

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We discuss the match and await word on the severity of injuries to a couple of significant players. We've got our Man of the Match selections, as usual, and maintain hope that the team starts to gel with another opportunity to do so this Saturday against the LA Galaxy.

OCB continued its successful start to the season with two points (you read that correctly) against New York City FC II on Sunday night. The Young Lions held a 2-0 lead but let it evaporate despite being up a man and a goal for some time in the second half. It could have gotten worse had NYCFC II not missed a penalty, but the match ended level and OCB took the extra point home from the postgame penalty shootout. It was a feisty game between two teams who seem to have a lot of hate for one another.

Finally, we dove into our mailbagbox to answer your questions. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us anything by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

Here’s how No. 338 went down:

0:15 – Another loss to Wayne Rooney. This is getting boring. Try something different.

27:27 – OCB bounced back (partially) from the Atlanta loss. Good job by the Young Lions in a heated match.

37:25 – You asked us anything. We answered everything.

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Following that, we were joined by Orlando City fullback Luca Petrasso. The versatile Canadian told us about that pass that helped lead to Duncan McGuire's winning goal in Minnesota. He talked about enjoying the Florida heat as opposed to the cold of Canada — and we warned him about the summer — the season so far, preparing for D.C. United, and what we might see as a celebration for his first goal as a Lion. Big thanks to Luca for his time.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City vs. D.C. United, including our key match-ups and score predictions for Saturday’s match.

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

Here’s how No. 337 went down:

0:15 – We're joined by staff member and TML Platinum Founder Ryan Smith to talk about Orlando City's striker situation.

12:15 – Orlando City fullback Luca Petrasso jumps on with us to talk about that pass in the buildup to the winning goal last week and many other topics.

42:30 – Our key match-ups and score predictions ahead of Orlando City's second meeting of the season with D.C. United.

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After a few quick updates about this website, we dove into our recap of the match, hitting the highlights, and we made our Man of the Match selections.

OCB put its 3-0-0 record on the line and...well, that record is not quite as unblemished as it used to be after a disastrous trip to play Atlanta United 2. Hopefully it's just a blip for the Young Lions and we'll see how they handle their first real adversity of the season.

Kudos to a couple OCB players who got call-ups to the U.S. U-17 squad. We'll tell you who!

Finally, we dove into our mailbox to answer your questions, including one about our own origin story. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us anything by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

Here’s how No. 336 went down:

0:15 – A look back at Orlando City's 2-1 win at Minnesota United.

25:08 –A look at OCB's not-very-good trip north to play Atlanta United 2 and a couple of Young Lions make the U.S. U-17 squad.

30:22 – We answer the letters you stuck in our mailbagbox. 

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If you missed it, we gave our Orlando Pride coverage its own dedicated show, and the first episode of SkoPurp Soccer: An Orlando Pride PawedCast went live on Wednesday.

We started this show off with discussion of The Beautiful Game, an exhibition match coming to Exploria Stadium this summer. We already know Ronaldinho and Roberto Carlos will be there, and more star players will be announced in the coming weeks.

We welcomed Alan Van Wyk from Northland Soccer Journal (formerly E Pluribus Loonum but now an independent site like ours) to get inside the goings on at Minnesota United, a club that Orlando City has not met on the pitch since the MLS is Back Tournament semifinals back in 2020. Alan was kind enough to answer our questions and some from our Founders as well.

This week's mailbagbox asked us where we'd go on the road if all expenses were paid. We did take economics into account in our response. Remember, if there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us anything by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Finally, we previewed Orlando City at Minnesota United, including our key match-ups and score predictions for Saturday's match.

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

Here’s how No. 335 went down:

0:15 – The Beautiful Game is coming to Orlando's Exploria Stadium and we know two players who will participate. The rest is still up in the air, but we suspect a Kaká appearance might happen.

12:15 – Alan Van Wyk jumps on with us to catch us up with what's going on with Minnesota United, although he couldn't tell us much about the bizarre Emmanuel Reynoso saga.

38:28 – The mailbagbox get opened and we dive into our thoughts ah

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Former Pride midfielder and current (injured) Central Florida Crusaders player Bridget Callahan is the show's first guest and it's appropriate because she popularized the term that gave the podcast its name (SkoPurp!). Bridget fills us in on the origin of the term, how she came to join the city's new indoor soccer team, her injury while playing goalkeeper (!) with the Crusaders, what she's up to now, and more.

There's some USWNT talk as Michael and Dave discuss the injury to Mallory Swanson against Ireland and the loss of her talents for the upcoming World Cup.

Finally, we break down the Pride's upcoming match against NJ/NY Gotham FC on Saturday night at Exploria Stadium, with our key match-ups and score predictions.

Here's how the show went down:

0:15 - Our first show, Pride players abroad, and recent roster moves.

23:33 - Bridget Callahan jumps on and we're not sure who was more stoked about her being on the show.

43:09 - What Mal Swanson's loss means for the USWNT and what we expect on Saturday night when the Pride host Gotham.

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It was absolutely the wrong week to switch formats when you consider that Orlando City didn't play this week and neither did the Pride, however, that was also the appeal of doing it this week. There were (and are) bound to be hiccups and so it's better to have those when there's less content.

The idea of the switch of this show is simple: our show is rather long for a weekly soccer podcast and it's hard for listeners to find enough time to listen to them all the way through in one sitting. We can bring you more detail and still give listeners a more digestible show if we switch to two episodes per week. This is the first of the two you'll get this week.

Since Orlando City was off, we opened the show with some information about our move from SBNation to our own independent site (we hope you like it), the launch of SkoPurp Soccer: An Orlando Pride PawedCast later this week, and the format change for this show. We also touched on some international news that affects one of the more prominent Lions, Facundo Torres.

With the senior Lions off, we went into much more detail in our analysis and recap of Orlando City B's 2-0 win over Inter Miami II on Easter Sunday and discussed the honors that Favian Loyola captured after that win. We also discussed the OCSC academy teams at the Generation Adidas Cup tournament. Both the U-15 and U-17 squads had solid runs and were among the academy teams that impressed in the competition, along with the usual suspects (Philadelphia and FC Dallas, to name a couple).

And that's our show. Remember, ff there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the show, just ask us anything by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

Here’s how No. 334 went down:

0:15 – Updates about the new format of this show, what to expect from the launch of SkoPurp Soccer: An Orlando Pride PawedCast later this week, and Facu has a new gaffer with Uruguay.

12:56 –A deep dive into OCB's 2-0 win over Inter Miami II on Easter, with Lynn and Loyola handing the Herons an L.

25:34 – The OCSC Development Academy U-15 and U-17 squads did the club prou

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We break down a frustrating home loss but we also aren't ready to call for anyone's head just yet, and we explain why. We also select our Man of the Match picks and look forward to Orlando getting healthy and rested for a meeting on April 15 with Minnesota United on the road.

We don't normally talk about OCB second, but the Young Lions are the club's only undefeated professional side after a 2-1 win over Huntsville City in the club's home opener. Alex Freeman scored both goals for OCB and the team was albe to withstand a lot of pressure against the visitors to improve to 2-0-0.

Speaking of Freeman, he joined us as this week's guest and we asked him about his experiences in camp, what Oscar Pareja has told him he needs to do better to get first-team minutes, how he adjusts to playing for OCB and then quickly changing gears for international play, and much more. Big thanks to Alex for coming on the show and to a couple of our Founders for submitting some questions.

The Pride dropped a heartbreaker in their home opener but man, did they ever create some scoring chances against Angel City. The visitors had to rely on a penalty and a last-gasp header, in addition to numerous missed opportunities by the home team to take three points out of Exploria Stadium for the first time. Ally Watt had a rough match in front of goal but better days lie ahead if Seb Hines can get that kind of performance out of his team each week. We also discussed NWSL expansion and the Pride's recent signing of three young additions to the team.

The OCSC academy teams won their groups at the Generation Adidas tournament and will be in action today as a result. It's always nice to see the kids doing well against difficult competition.

Finally, we dove into our mailbagbox, which asked us about bar brawls, how Orlando City spends money on players, and (of all things) the Tampa Bay Rowdies' home crowd. If there’s anything — and we do mean anything — you want us to address on the next show, just ask by tweeting it to us at @TheManeLand with the hashtag #AskTMLPC.

Stay safe and enjoy the show!

Here’s how No. 333 went down:

0:15 – The Lions dropped a game they could have won (but didn't) and a lot of people are upset about it. We're going to try to stay rational and positive for the time being and explain why others should do so too.

41:41 –Alex Freeman scored twice and that really made us want to talk to him. So we did.

54:16 – The Pride played better but got the same result, although wit

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The Orlando Pride and Orlando City B both opened their 2023 seasons on the road this past weekend, but with very different results. Both the NWSL and the MLS NEXT Pro teams' matches go under the microscope a bit and then the topic of conversation turns to the United States Men's National Team, which hosted El Salvador at Exploria Stadium in Orlando on Monday. The guys discuss the USMNT win, advancing to the Concacaf Nations League semifinals, and Daryl Dike's return to his old pitch.

After Michael and Dave spend some time answering listeners' questions, the topic of conversation turns toward Orlando City's home match-up with Nashville SC this weekend.

Here’s how No. 332 went down:

0:15 - The Lions picked up their first road victory of the season and it was only at the toughest place in the league to win for the traveling side. Our breakdown of a big win in Philly.

34:22 - Duncan McGuire jumps in and tells us all about that backflip, transitioning to the professional game, where he’s gotten help from on the team, and much more.

50:21 - The Pride got pounded, OCB won by multiple goals, the USMNT won again in Orlando, and our key match-ups and predictions.

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