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The SBI Show: Episode 83 (Talking Orlando City’s MLS expansion bid, the Supporters Shield race, and more)

AdamaMbengueOrlandoCitySC1-CharlotteEagles (OrlandoCitySC)

By IVES GALARCEP

Orlando City’s successful bid to secure public funding for a soccer stadium project has cleared the way for MLS to return to Florida, and the result is the likely first step in the league’s rapid push towards 24 teams.

Episode 83 of The SBI Show takes a look at Orlando City’s soon-to-be successful bid to join MLS, and what it means for the league, and how the rest of the expansion field looks as MLS takes aim on rapid expansion in the coming years.

Co-host Garrett Cleverly and I also discuss the MLS Supporters Shield race, and take a look at the mid-week CONCACAF Champions League slate, which features several important matches for MLS teams.

Give Episode 83 of The SBI Show a listen after the jump:

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What did you think of the show? Excited for Orlando City’s arrival in MLS? Which cities do you think should take the final three spots in the next round of MLS expansion?

Share your thoughts below.

Comments

  1. Love the podcast!….
    Pro/rel could work in a closed system as well. Current MLS owners could benefit from it in a big way…
    Someday MLS will be forced to expand to 30 teams as there will be too many major TV markets left out and those who are will be picked up by rival leagues.Of course then they will have to resort to a regionally based schedule which will be a disaster for fans.
    Why not create an MLS 2 (closed system) with cheaper franchise fees? Pro/rel 2 or 3 teams per year. MLS will then fly its flag in 40 to 50 markets in N.A. instead of just 24 to 30. It would surely devastate its competitor ( NASL)..and put more franchise fee dollars in current owners pockets.
    If I had an opportunity to buy into MLS 2 or the NASL,
    I think the answer is obvious.

    Reply
    • Why would you want to replace/destroy an entire level of soccer? That’s counter-productive to enhancing the sport in the States. The teams that are in the NASL have worked hard to be where they are and are in some places MLS has never looked to expand. The Midwest is lacking teams as is part of the west, and a majority of these markets aren’t large which is where the NASL is looking to add teams.

      And why stop there? Lets destroy USLPro with a MLS 3, then get rid of the PDL with MLS 4. In the UK its the Premier League, Championship, League 1, League 2, etc. Honestly does a name matter if you’re a true soccer fan?

      Reply

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