• The NWSL announced the league's 10th franchise Tuesday, the Orlando Pride (think Lions, the nickname of MLS side Orlando City FC). It didn't take long for Orlando to start making a splash, either — two days later it traded the No. 1 draft pick and two players for star U.S. striker Alex Morgan. Her husband, Servando Carrasco, plays for Orlando City, and she requested the move shortly after the franchise was announced.
• The Ottawa Fury clinched the NASL fall-season championship on Wednesday, leaving Minnesota with little to play for, standingswise, in its final two home games. It looks very likely that United will travel to New York for the league semifinals on Nov. 7. History does not paint an optimistic picture for Minnesota. The Loons have had no luck on the road against the Cosmos, drawing one game and losing three.
• On Friday, U.S. Soccer was cleared to host a special Copa America in the United States next summer, with all 10 South American nations and six of the best North American nations, including the U.S., Mexico and Costa Rica.
