The Free Kick

Jose’s Social Media:

Moisés Social Media:

Twitter: @MlinaresDC

Instagram: @mlinaresdc

Goals Breakdown: Red Bull New York v Philadelphia Union (8/29/26)

Todd Lewis — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 02:15:28 GMT

The Philadelphia Union completed the sweep over Red Bull New York with yet again another 3-1 win as Milan Iloski, Cavan Sullivan and Neil Pierre scored in the victory. The Union improved to 5-0-2 under interim head coach Ryan Richter in his first seven games in MLS.

Goal Scorers:
PHL: Iloski 21'
PHL: C. Sullivan 50'
PHL: Pierre 65'
RBNY: Choupo-Moting 74'

__________________________________________________________________

Social Media:

Cavan Sullivan & Neil Pierre Named to MLS Team of The Matchday 23

Todd Lewis — Wed, 02 Sep 2026 20:20:23 GMT

(Credit: MLS)

Cavan Sullivan and Neil Pierre have once again been named to MLS’ Team of the Matchday, this time for their performances in Philadelphia Union’s 3-1 victory over Red Bull New York during Matchday 23.

This becomes the fourth honor of the season for Sullivan and the third for Pierre, as both scored in the victory to move the Union within a point of a playoff spot with 12 games remaining.

The Union are the only remaining team in MLS that have yet to lose a game since the World Cup break. They hold a 5-0-2 record across interim head coach Ryan Richter’s first seven MLS games. Since Richter’s first match in charge, the Union have had at least one player earn Team of the Matchday honors in each of the last seven Matchdays.

Sullivan scored the game-winning goal in the 50th minute, giving him his third goal of the season. He has now scored in back-to-back games for the first time in his young career, and in his last four games he has scored twice and assisted twice. Sullivan finished the match with 80 minutes played, completed a game-high four dribbles, and created three chances.

Pierre has continued his hot streak, scoring his fourth goal in his last seven games and making him the club’s second-highest goal scorer in MLS this season. He played all 90 minutes in the victory and delivered another solid defensive shift with three tackles, one block, one interception, five clearances, and five ball recoveries. He also won 5 of 6 ground duels and his only aerial duel.

The Union return to action this Saturday at home against CF Montréal (7:30 p.m. ET / Apple TV). They will look to extend their seven-game unbeaten run as they continue to close the gap in the race for a playoff spot.

Past Team of The Matchday’s

Don’t Count Out the Philadelphia Union Just Yet

Todd Lewis — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 19:16:01 GMT

(Credit: Philadelphia Union)

If the playoffs started today, the Philadelphia Union would not be in them. But the good news? There are still 12 games left before the regular season ends and the 2026 playoffs begin, and Philadelphia is currently just one point outside the playoff picture.

It has been remarkable to watch what interim head coach Ryan Richter, his staff, and the players have accomplished since his first game in charge on July 22 against Red Bull New York. Before that match, the Union were last in the Eastern Conference with 7 points, 11 points behind D.C. United for the final playoff spot. Philadelphia had just one win in they’re first 15 games, which led to Bradley Carnell being let go a year after winning the Supporters’ Shield.

Not all of the blame for the first half of the season can be placed on Carnell. When Jon Scheer was announced as the club’s new sporting director on May 27, replacing Ernst Tanner, Scheer had clearly identified what had gone wrong and what needed to change. He saw a need for veteran leadership and a fix at left back. Both issues were addressed by bringing Kai Wagner back from Birmingham City.

Richter identified problems of his own. His main priority was resetting the club’s culture inside the locker room.

After the Union’s most recent 3-1 win over Red Bull New York on Saturday, Cavan Sullivan spoke with Senior Digital Club Reporter Sage Hurley about the locker room losing its spirit in the first half of the season, and about Richter being the key reason that spirit is back. Sullivan became the latest player to speak publicly in support of Richter.

“Yeah, huge credit to him,” Sullivan said. “I think our guys will say it, the locker room sort of lost its spirit in the first half of the season. He definitely brought that back, and there’s this new way about us and a new spirit, but at this point, it’s just consistently every week. It’s not a new thing anymore, so yeah, let’s just keep this rolling and push for the playoff spot.”

Richter has been consistent with the media as well, constantly reminding everyone that he is taking it one game at a time. After all, his future is not guaranteed while he still holds the interim title. That approach has worked. The Union are one of the hottest team coming out of the World Cup break and remain the only side without a loss in their first seven games under Richter, sitting at 5-0-2.

The attack has looked lively, thanks in part to Wagner’s return, Quinn Sullivan coming back from injury, and Cavan Sullivan playing a much bigger role after starting all seven games. Philadelphia has scored 16 goals in seven matches, an average of 2.2 per game, compared to 1.2 goals per game over the first 15. The Union have also created 15 chances per game, up from 10.2 in those first 15 matches.

“I’ve been playing with freedom now because the people around me allow me to do that,” Vassilev said after Saturday night’s game. “Cavan and Frankie on the right side. … They play with so much joy, and every single day they have so much fun in training and in games, and it kind of helps the rest of the team kind of loosen up and open up and play to their full potential.”

With the Union playing with this kind of confidence, they will be difficult to beat.

Just a few weeks ago, Philadelphia trailed 2-0 against both Atlanta United and NYCFC and came back to win both games 3-2. This is a team Carnell once said was not built to play from behind. Twice in seven games under Richter, the Union fell behind and still won.

Since Richter took over, the Union have scored first in five of seven games, winning three and drawing the other two. Before Richter, they had scored first in only three matches and failed to win any of them. Across MLS this season, teams that score first go on to win 65.2 percent of the time. The current staff has not emphasized scoring first so much as starting games better, and that has been the case in most matches.

“It’s not something that we emphasize to say whether [we’re] conceding first or if we score first, but a real emphasis is on the way that we start games and how fast we start, where we want to play the game and we want to play as much as we can in their end, how we want to challenge a backline on the other team, how we want to press them from the start of the game,” Richter said after Saturday night’s victory over Red Bull.

Richter made that point after the 3-2 comeback win over Atlanta United, when the team gambled by taking off a centerback and bringing on another attacker. At home, he said, you have to go for the win and get three points. The substitution proved pivotal. The Union scored twice in second-half stoppage time to take all three points.

The good news for the Union is that seven of their last 12 games are at home. Combined with Richter’s push-for-the-win mentality, that bodes well for the Union’s surge toward the playoffs. They will have their hands full with FC Cincinnati (Sept. 9), Charlotte (Oct. 17), the New England Revolution (Oct. 24), and league leaders Nashville SC (Oct. 28). A couple of those matches come on short rest. Richter and his staff, though, just came through a stretch of four games in 13 days, or a little more than a game every three days. In that span, Richter used 10 of the same 11 starters in all four games, with the only change being Jesús Bueno and Jovan Lukic swapping places in the starting XI.

The Union will likely face significant lineup changes on Sept. 26 against Orlando City, a match that falls during a FIFA international break. That could see Andre Blake, Cavan Sullivan, Frankie Westfield, Neil Pierre, Danley Jean Jacques, and Andrew Rick called up for international duty.

Richter will have to trust his depth in those games. Those matches also give other players a chance to step up and show they deserve more minutes.

There is still work to do, and knowing Richter and the players, simply reaching a play-in spot will not be good enough. They had a difficult hole to climb out of after their poor form in the first 15 games, but picking up 17 points in seven matches has been remarkable. Expecting the Union not to lose again the rest of the season is unrealistic. Fighting back into the playoff mix also seemed unrealistic a few months ago. The one thing you cannot do with this group is count them out. They will take advantage of every opportunity in front of them, and who knows? Maybe they do go on a serious playoff run in November / December.

Video Credit: Philadelphia Union

Episode 432 - Cavan Sullivan Continues Case For USMNT Call-Up

Todd Lewis — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 18:12:45 GMT

The Philadelphia Union continued their flying start under interim head coach Ryan Richter, defeating Red Bull New York 3-1 behind goals from Milan Iloski, Cavan Sullivan, and Neil Pierre. The victory moved the Union to within one point of a playoff spot. Todd and José discuss the latest news from around MLS, including Stas Korzeniowski's loan move to Rhode Island FC and Dániel Gazdag's transfer to the New England Revolution. They then break down the Union's victory on Saturday night, with topics including Cavan Sullivan's case for a USMNT call-up and have the Union emerged as a legitimate playoff threat? Finally, they wrap up with Blunder of the Week, an honor that goes to José's beloved Manchester City.

News:

Stas Korzeniowski loaned to Rhode Island in USL Championship: [9:40]
Dániel Gazdag to New England Revolution: [15:27]

Red Bull New York v Philadelphia Union:

Danley Jean Jacques continues to impress / Andre Blake with a stellar performance: [24:57]
Cavan Sullivan continues to make case for USMNT call-up in September: [39:10]
Have the Union emerged as a legitimate playoff threat: [52:15]

Blunder of The Week:

Manchester City use AI for their third kit: [1:14:55]

Social Media:

Jose’s Social Media:

Match Recap: Union Stay Unbeaten Under Richter With 3-1 Win at Red Bull New York

Todd Lewis — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 03:18:47 GMT

(Credit: Philadelphia Union)

HARRISON, N.J. — Under interim head coach Ryan Richter, the Philadelphia Union still cannot lose. They stayed unbeaten through his first seven games Saturday night, beating Red Bull New York 3-1 on goals from Milan Iloski, Cavan Sullivan and Neil Pierre.

The Union improved to 6-10-6 in MLS play and 5-0-2 under Richter. They now sit on 24 points, one point outside a playoff spot and four points behind seventh-place NYCFC.

Interim head coach Ryan Richter made one change to his starting XI from last weekend’s match against Austin FC, with Jovan Lukic replacing Jesús Bueno. Andre Blake started in goal, with a backline of Frankie Westfield at right back, Neil Pierre and Nathan Harriel at centerback, and Kai Wagner at left back. Anchoring the midfield as the dual No. 6s were Lukic and Danley Jean Jacques, who was making his 50th career start in MLS for the club, with Indiana Vassilev and Cavan Sullivan starting as the two No. 10s. Up front were Bruno Damiani and Milan Iloski.

(Credit: Philadelphia Union)

The Union had to be patient, but the opening goal arrived in the 21st minute, Iloski’s 11th of the season. Danley accelerated down the right and whipped in a cross that traveled untouched through the box to Vassilev, whose shot was on target and tapped in by Iloski to make it 1-0.

A minute later, Iloski nearly made it 2-0. Wagner played a long ball forward for Damiani, who headed it down for Iloski outside the 18-yard box. The forward’s strike just cleared the crossbar.

Red Bull had a chance in the 31st minute when Cade Cowell found space on the right. Blake came up big at the near post, and Ronald Donkor sent the rebound wide.

Seven minutes later, Julian Hall was in on goal after a long ball over the top. Hall appeared to push Harriel, but there was no call. Blake denied Hall, and Harriel headed Jorge Ruvalcaba’s follow-up behind for a goal kick.

In the 42nd minute, Pierre stepped in front of Hall after the forward was played through and blocked the shot, continuing a strong first half display defensively from the centerback.

Philadelphia nearly doubled the lead in the second minute of first-half stoppage time. A set-piece routine ended with Damiani heading the ball down to Iloski inside the six-yard box. Justin Che cleared the first shot off the line, and Iloski put the rebound into the side netting.

The Union went into the break up 1-0, having created enough chances to be further ahead. They led 9-7 in shots and 5-3 in shots on target. Scoring first marked the fifth time they had done so in Richter’s first seven MLS matches in charge.

Damiani had a huge chance in the 48th minute when Sullivan’s cross was parried by Ethan Horvath. The rebound fell kindly to Damiani, but both of his efforts were blocked.

Two minutes later, Sullivan scored his second goal in as many games. Vassilev won the ball in Philadelphia’s defensive half and played left to Danley, who sprayed a pass to the right for Sullivan. The 16-year-old cut inside onto his left foot and ripped a shot into the bottom-right corner to make it 2-0.

Richter’s first change came in the 64th minute, Quinn Sullivan on for Vassilev.

A minute later, the Union made it 3-0. Pierre scored his fourth goal in seven games, finishing at the near post after Iloski’s free kick was headed on by Damiani.

Red Bull finally got on the scoresheet in the 74th minute, seconds after Cavan Sullivan slipped a ball between two defenders that Damiani could not reach. The Red Bulls split midfield and found second-half substitute Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting in behind. Wagner kept him onside, and the Cameroonian chipped Blake to make it 3-1.

Richter’s final changes came in the 80th minute, Bueno and Agustín Anello on for Cavan Sullivan and Damiani, then Ezekiel Alladoh for Jean Jacques in the 84th. Neither team would generate any chance after the goal in the 74th minute.

Philadelphia held on for 3-1 and left Harrison with more than three points. Richter’s Union are now unbeaten in seven, five wins into that run, and just one point from a playoff spot. Seven games ago this looked like a lost season, but under Richter hope and belief have returned and a playoff push has suddenly become realistic.

Key Moments

21’ | Milan Iloski Goal

52’ | Cavan Sullivan Goal

65’ | Neil Pierre Goal

74’ | Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting Goal

Match Preview: Philadelphia Union Continue Their Playoff Push Against Red Bull New York

Todd Lewis — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 03:19:38 GMT

(Credit: Philadelphia Union)

A win at Sports Illustrated Stadium on Saturday would lift the Philadelphia Union to 24 points and into the Eastern Conference cluster that currently includes Orlando City, Toronto FC, and D.C. United all fighting for ninth place, the final playoff spot. If Orlando loses at Minnesota, the Union would sit level with Orlando on points. Orlando would still hold the first tiebreaker with seven wins to the Union’s six. Even if the Union don’t pick up three points, there’s still plenty of season left with 12 games remaining.

The Union still in this conversation at all is a testament to the job interim head coach Ryan Richter, his staff, and the players have done since MLS resumed play on July 22. Many fans were ready to write the season off after one win in the first 15 games. The team looked sluggish, and self-inflicted wounds piled up. Since Richter took over, Philadelphia is undefeated in six games (4-0-2). Mistakes still appear defensively, but the side looks more organized. The attack has taken strides too, scoring 13 goals in those six games and creating 15.5 chances per game, compared with 10.2 under Bradley Carnell over the first 15.

Richter has kept the message simple.

“The position the team’s in, the position that I’m in myself, I’m not worrying about 10 games from now,” Richter said ahead of the match against Red Bull New York. “I’m excited for the game this weekend and putting all our energy into that and trying to prepare the guys the best way that we possibly can so that they can be successful.”

He has handled the media the same way. No looking ahead while the interim tag is still on the job. The future is unsettled, but ownership, the front office, the staff, and the players could not have asked for a better start from the Bucks County native.

MLS’s Latest Homegrown Wave

Saturday is a continuation of a playoff push. It is also another night of Homegrown’s on both sides. The Red Bulls are 1-3-1 in their last five after a 3-1 loss to Philadelphia on July 22. The record looks like a team struggling, but the performances have been better. They nicked a late equalizer in a 1-1 draw with Chicago last weekend. They were the better side against league-leading Nashville before conceding in the second minute of second-half stoppage time. A 2-1 loss to Atlanta saw a Tristan Muyumba golazo and poor marking on a set piece headed in by former Union forward Fafa Picault.

New York has leaned on Julian Hall (9 goals, 3 assists) and Adri Mehmeti (1 goal, 3 assists). Those two against Quinn Sullivan, Cavan Sullivan, Neil Pierre, and Frankie Westfield is the matchup inside the match. All of them look like future U.S. pieces.

Richter has been a coach in the Union’s organization since 2018, first with the academy, then first-team assistant from 2022 to 2024, Union II head coach, and now the interim job. He has watched what the academy investment can produce.

“Yeah, I think for a long time, there’s been a lot of good work being done in the academies,” Richter said. “And the investment grows each year in all the academies. And that whole thing started here with the vision of ownership [with] Jay [Sugarman] and the [Richie] Graham family and everything that they believe in of the way that you develop players.”

There have been plenty of success stories for the Union organization with Brenden and Paxten Aaronson to Europe, Mark McKenzie to Europe, Jack McGlynn, Auston Trusty, and Matt Freese with the U.S. National Team. Fans will say most of those players stays were too short, but to future players it doesn’t matter, it’s the club having a record of getting players to the next level that matters.

“So for me, as a fan of American soccer, as someone who’s worked in the development side and believes strongly in that and everything that our club and the foundation of our club has committed to this model and believing in this type of success, it’s cool to see it actually happening, not just within our club, but at scale throughout the league,” Richter said.

Agustín Anello Pushing For More Minutes

Richter has settled on a front four of Bruno Damiani, Milan Iloski, Cavan Sullivan, and Indiana Vassilev. All four have started the last five MLS games. Quinn Sullivan has been the first attacking option off the bench, usually as the left-sided No. 10 in place of Vassilev. Agustín Anello has been the odd man out since Richter took over, featuring in four of a possible nine games (one start) across MLS and Leagues Cup, for a total of 122 minutes.

When the Union pushed for a winner in Austin last Saturday, Richter brought on Quinn Sullivan and Anello. Anello streaked down the left side, combined with Ezekiel Alladoh on a give-and-go, and found Sullivan on the right. Brad Stuver saved the long-range shot. Later, with Austin committing numbers forward, Anello timed a tackle inside his own penalty area, won the ball, and started a counter. He also had Philadelphia’s last chance, a volley from a Kai Wagner set piece that was blocked and led to a corner that came to nothing.

It has not been easy for the 24-year-old since Richter has taken over, but Richter was pleased with the first-year midfielder’s shift off the bench. Those minutes are why the lineup conversations have gotten harder.

“And what he can do is exactly what he did in the Austin game,” Richter said. “He came in, made an immediate impact, and then makes you think as a coach when you’re in this position, who’s the right player to put in and who can impact the game. And what he showed in the last game was that he can have a really positive influence in the game.”

He added: “I appreciate the patience that he had over the last couple of weeks when he didn’t get as many minutes as he probably would have wanted. But he worked [hard] in training, he came in and kept his head in the right place that he could approach the game and come in and make a difference.” Richter sees Anello’s best position as a left-sided No. 10, though he also believes Anello can fill in as a second forward if called upon.

Episode 431 - MLS' Latest Homegrown Wave Ahead of Red Bull New York (ft. Chris Wittyngham)

Todd Lewis — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 18:33:13 GMT

The Philadelphia Union return to action on Saturday night as they face off against Red Bull New York, looking to keep their six-game unbeaten run intact. Todd and José are joined by MLS and CBS Sports commentator Chris Wittyngham to preview the match. They discuss topics such as the current homegrown wave in MLS, the differences in preparation for Bradley Carnell and Ryan Richter, the impact of Kai Wagner since his return, whether Cavan Sullivan should be called up during the next USMNT window, and Red Bull New York’s current form. Todd and José wrap up the show with their thoughts on MLS’ exit from the Leagues Cup and how close Agustín Anello is to earning more minutes.

Red Bull New York v Philadelphia Union:

MLS Homegrown wave: [4:45]
Difference in preparation between Bradley Carnell and Ryan Richter: [11:08]
Impact of Kai Wagner since his return: [15:23]
Is Cavan Sullivan playing with a chip on his shoulders: [20:00]
Should Cavan Sullivan be called up in the next USMNT window: [24:10]
Red Bull New York’s current form: [27:26]
Agustín Anello pushing for more minutes: [40:10]

Leagues Cup:

MLS teams’ eliminated from Leagues Cup: [34:54]

Social Media:

Jose’s Social Media:

Chris’ Social Media:

Twitter: @ChrisWittyngham

Instagram: @chriswittyngham

Cavan Sullivan Named to MLS Team of The Matchday 22

Todd Lewis — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 12:13:53 GMT

(Credit: MLS)

Cavan Sullivan has been named to the MLS Team of the Matchday for Matchday 22 for his goal against Austin FC on Saturday in the Union’s 1-1 draw.

This marks the third time this season that Sullivan has earned the honor, giving him the most of any Philadelphia Union player so far this season.

The 16-year-old scored his second MLS goal this season after a set-piece routine by the Union that involved a short corner kick between Milan Iloski and Kai Wagner. Iloski crossed to the back post for Nathan Harriel to head the ball back across the six-yard box, where Sullivan headed it home in the 18th minute to give the Union a 1-0 lead.

Sullivan finished the match playing 74 minutes, completing 21 of 29 passes, creating one chance (which resulted in Danley Jean Jacques hitting the post), and completing seven passes into the final third.

The Union remain undefeated through Ryan Richter’s first six games in MLS with a 4-0-2 record. They sit just three points out of a final playoff spot and just six points behind NYCFC for the seventh seed.

Philadelphia returns to action on Saturday, August 29 (7:30 p.m. ET / Apple TV), to face off against eighth-place Red Bull New York (7-9-5, 26 pts) at Sports Illustrated Stadium. The Union are looking to sweep the Red Bulls after defeating them 3-1 in interim head coach Ryan Richter’s debut on July 22.

Past Team of The Matchday’s

Episode 430 - Neil Pierre Shines in Philadelphia’s 1-1 Draw Against Austin

Todd Lewis — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 11:23:34 GMT

The Philadelphia Union remain unbeaten through interim head coach Ryan Richter’s first six MLS games, as the Union and Austin played to a 1-1 draw at Q2 Stadium. Todd is joined by Evan Konigsberg to discuss the game and topics such as Neil Pierre’s strong defensive performance, Ryan Richter’s first six games in MLS, and Richter using the same starting XI against Austin that faced Inter Miami three days ago. Finally, Todd talks about the Blunder of the Week, which involves Crew Alexandra and Northampton Town.

News:

The Seattle Sounders have agreed to a deal to acquire star forward Dejan Joveljic from Sporting KC for $6M: [3:35]
Sporting KC offered $25M for Nico Fernandez Mercau: [6:29]
The San Jose Earthquakes agreed to a deal to acquire midfielder Eduard Löwen from St. Louis City: [13:00]

Austin FC v Philadelphia Union:

Cavan Sullivan’s second goal / Andre Blake saves: [18:01]
Ryan Richter goes with same XI as he did against Miami: [28:38]
Bench options: [36:26]
Ryan Richter through six MLS games: [44:35]
Neil Pierre’s strong performance: [53:07]

Blunder of The Week:

Crewe Alexandra's Josh March steals the ball coming from behind the Northampton goalkeeper to score the winner: [59:47]

Social Media:

Jose’s Social Media:

Evan’s Social Media:

Twitter: @evanknowsball

https://philadelphiasoccernow.com/

Goals Breakdown: Austin FC v Philadelphia Union (8/22/26)

Todd Lewis — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 16:35:12 GMT

The Philadelphia Union remain undefeated through interim head coach Ryan Richter's first six MLS games, as the Union play Austin FC to a 1-1 draw, with Cavan Sullivan scoring his second MLS goal this season. The Union scored their eighth set piece goal, which ties them for the fourth most in MLS this season.

Goal Scorers:
PHL: C. Sullivan 18'
ATX: Hines-Ike 21'

__________________________________________________________________

Social Media:

Match Recap: Union Battle to 1-1 Draw Against Austin FC

Todd Lewis — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 04:48:51 GMT

(Credit: Philadelphia Union)

AUSTIN — Three days after facing Inter Miami, the Philadelphia Union returned to action against Austin FC with the same starting XI and earned a gritty 1-1 draw. Set-piece goals, sharp saves, and late defensive stands defined the night as the Union remain unbeaten in interim head coach Ryan Richter’s first six MLS games, with Cavan Sullivan netting their lone goal.

Ryan Richter stuck with the same lineup that faced Miami on Wednesday night. Andre Blake started in goal behind a backline of Frankie Westfield at right back, Neil Pierre and Nathan Harriel at centerback, and Kai Wagner at left back. Jesús Bueno and Danley Jean Jacques anchored the midfield as dual No. 6s, with Indiana Vassilev and Cavan Sullivan operating as the two No. 10s. Bruno Damiani and Milan Iloski led the line.

(Credit: Philadelphia Union)

Andre Blake was called into action in the 14th minute, diving to his left to deny a strike from Myrto Uzuni. Austin worked the ball patiently out of the back before finding Uzuni on the left. The Albanian cut inside onto his right foot and fired toward the far post, but Blake produced a strong left-handed save.

Philadelphia struck first in the 18th minute. Milan Iloski played a short corner to Kai Wagner, received the return pass, and swung a cross to the back post. Nathan Harriel headed the ball across the six-yard box, where Cavan Sullivan nodded it home for his second goal of the MLS season and a 1-0 Union lead.

Austin equalized three minutes later. Joseph Rosales delivered a corner toward the far post, where Brendan Hines-Ike rose between Harriel and Westfield, shrugged off Jesús Bueno, and headed home to make it 1-1.

Austin grew into the match after the equalizer. In the 34th minute Christian Ramirez saw his shot blocked by Neil Pierre after Harriel’s poor headed clearance out of the box.

The Union created one more chance before the break. Blake found Westfield, who played a sharp ball into the center for Damiani. The striker flicked it on for Iloski, who raced into Austin’s half before attempting a cut-back for Sullivan that was intercepted.

The sides went into halftime locked at 1-1. Philadelphia had the better of the early chances, but Austin steadily improved and finished the half with a 5-4 edge in shots and a 3-1 advantage in shots on target. The Union’s set-piece goal brought their season total to eight, tied for fourth-most in MLS.

Philadelphia came out firing in the second half. In the 52nd and 53rd minutes the 16-year-old Sullivan was involved in two promising sequences. First he dribbled past a defender and found Westfield, whose cut-back for Iloski was flagged offside. Moments later Sullivan intercepted a pass and slipped Danley in behind the defense; the Haitian’s effort struck the post.

Richter made his first changes in the 57th minute, introducing Quinn Sullivan and Jovan Lukic for Vassilev and Bueno.

Danley was involved again in the 65th minute. Lukic won the ball high up the pitch, and the Sullivan brothers combined before Quinn played Danley into space on the right. The midfielder’s first touch was heavy, and the chance fizzled.

Blake recorded his third save of the night in the 70th minute, diving to keep out a near-post strike from substitute Facundo Torres.

In the 74th minute Richter brought on Agustín Anello and Ezekiel Alladoh for Cavan Sullivan and Damiani. Seconds later Anello surged down the left, combined with Alladoh, and found Quinn Sullivan on the right. Sullivan forced a strong save from Brad Stuver in the 75th minute.

The Union produced two crucial defensive interventions in the 82nd and 83rd minutes. Anello slid in to win the ball inside his own penalty area and found Alladoh, who then released Quinn Sullivan. Sullivan dribbled past several defenders but could not complete the final pass. A minute later Przemysław Płacheta drove a low cross into the box. Blake spilled the collection, but Pierre cleared before Brandon Vázquez could pounce on an open goal.

Alladoh produced another vital defensive contribution in the 86th minute, tracking back to put Vázquez off and prevent what could have been a game-winning chance for Austin.

Blake redeemed himself in the fourth minute of stoppage time, denying Uzuni once more after the attacker was played through on goal.

Anello had Philadelphia’s final opportunity in the sixth minute of added time. Wagner floated a ball into the area for Pierre, who headed it down for Anello. The midfielder’s volley was blocked and went out for a corner that came to nothing.

In the end both sides settled for a point in a tightly contested affair. Blake’s heroics and a series of timely defensive interventions preserved the draw for the Union, who showed resilience after a quick start and a mid-match lull. With key contributors stepping up across the pitch, Philadelphia will look to turn hard-earned results like this into three points next Saturday as the Union head to Sports Illustrated Stadium on August 29th to face Red Bull New York (7:30 p.m. ET / Apple TV).

Key Moments

18’ | Cavan Sullivan Goal

21’ | Brendan Hines Ike Goal

53’ | Danley Post

83’ | Pierre Clearance

Video Credit: MLS / Apple TV

Episode 429 - Broad Street Sullivans

Todd Lewis — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 11:29:24 GMT

Philadelphia Union and Inter Miami played to a 2-2 draw on Wednesday night, in a match where the Philadelphia Union looked the better side. In a game that should’ve been about the Union's strong performance, unfortunately got overshadowed by Inter Miami’s antics throughout the game. Todd is joined by Evan Konigsberg to discuss the match, with topics including: Inter Miami’s antics throughout the match + red cards to Yannick Bright and Cavan Sullivan, assessing Ryan Richter’s first five MLS games, and missed opportunities for three points.

News:

Neil Pierre named to MLS Team of The Matchday 21: [4:14]
Mark McKenzie re-joining Philadelphia Union in 2027 of January: [8:11]

Philadelphia Union v Inter Miami:

Overall atmosphere: [17:50]
Big moments in the game / Indiana Vassilev / Nathan Harriel / Neil Pierre: [27:18]
Miami antics over the years: [48:19]
Ryan Richter deserves credit from national media: [52:00]
Missed opportunities: [58:29]
Miami antics / Cavan Sullivan and Yannick Bright situation: [1:09:30]

Photo Credit: Carl Gulbish

Social Media:

Jose’s Social Media:

Evan’s Social Media:

Twitter: @evanknowsball

https://philadelphiasoccernow.com/

Episode 428 - Philadelphia Union Erase Another 2-0 Deficit, As They Defeat NYCFC 3-2

Todd Lewis — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 20:49:40 GMT

The Philadelphia Union have made it back-back MLS games that they have comeback from 2-0 deficits in MLS, as they scored three goals in the second half with Danley Jean Jacques and Bruno Damiani to complete a 3-2 win over NYCFC. Todd and José give their thoughts on the win and discuss topics such as: Bruno Damiani's much needed performance, Sullivan brothers both shine, should Ryan Richter be given the first team job permanently because of his relationship with the Sullivan brothers, and Richter's second half changes prove key. Todd also gives his Blunder of the Week that involves high school soccer.

NYCFC v Philadelphia Union:

Danley’s performances under Richter and the cost of midfielders World Wide: [6:10]
Controversial penalties given up: [18:06]
Bruno Damiani’s first MLS brace: [25:09]
Sullivan brothers shine: [36:12]
Should Ryan Richter be given the Union job permanently for his relationship with Sullivan brothers / Ryan Richter’s second half changes: [58:53]

Blunder of The Week:

Punches thrown in a High School soccer game in South Dakota between Rapid City Central vs. Brookings: [1:09:07]

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Cavan Sullivan & Bruno Damiani Named to MLS Team of The Matchday 20

Todd Lewis — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 18:28:41 GMT

(Credit: MLS)

Cavan Sullivan and Bruno Damiani have been named to MLS’ Team of the Matchday 20 for their performances against NYCFC in the Union’s 3-2 comeback victory after being down 2-0.

Damiani becomes the ninth different Union player this season to be named to Team of the Matchday, as he finished with two goals against NYCFC—his first brace for the Union in MLS. Prior to the match against NYCFC, the Uruguayan forward had only one goal to his name in MLS, but he was coming off a strong performance against Necaxa in which the Union won 3-1 in their Leagues Cup matchup, with the forward scoring his first goal since May 24 against Inter Miami.

The 24-year-old played all 90 minutes against the side from New York, registering only two shots, both of which resulted in goals. Damiani finished the match completing 13 of 20 passes and winning seven out of 10 aerial duels.

Sullivan notches his second Team of the Matchday honor after registering two assists in the Union’s victory, the first time he had multiple assists in an MLS game for the club. Along with the assists, the 16-year-old was just as strong defensively for the Union, putting in three tackles, registering four ball recoveries, one interception, and winning six out of 10 ground duels.

The Union are currently riding a four-game winning streak in MLS, having won Ryan Richter’s first four games since he took over as interim head coach, and are the only team in MLS to win their first four games since returning to play after the World Cup break. Philadelphia returns to action Wednesday, August 19, as they welcome Inter Miami to town (7:30 p.m. ET / Apple TV). Miami are coming off a 4-1 road loss to Nashville on Saturday.

Past Team of The Matchday’s

You can watch the latest Goals Breakdown Video between NYCFC and Philadelphia Union below:

Goals Breakdown: NYCFC v Philadelphia Union (8/16/26)

Todd Lewis — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 02:49:36 GMT

The Philadelphia Union completed their second consecutive comeback in MLS play after overcoming a 2-0 deficit to defeat New York City FC 3-2. Danley Jean Jacques scored once, while Bruno Damiani netted a brace to lead the Union to victory. Since Ryan Richter took over as interim head coach, the Union are 4-0 in MLS play and have scored three goals in three of their four matches.

Goal Scorers:
NYCFC: Traoré 4'
NYCFC: Luighi 45+2'
PHL: Danley 48’
PHL: Damiani 69'
PHL: Damiani 76'

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Match Recap: Union Storm Back from Two Goals Down to Beat NYCFC 3-2

Todd Lewis — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 01:30:31 GMT

(Credit: Philadelphia Union)

NEW YORK — The Philadelphia Union refuse to go quietly. For the second straight MLS match, they erased a two-goal deficit and walked away with three points, this time storming back for a 3-2 victory over NYCFC on the strength of Danley Jean Jacques’s strike and a second-half brace from Bruno Damiani. The result leaves the Union just five points behind D.C. United for the final playoff spot and keeps interim head coach Ryan Richter perfect at 4-0 in MLS since taking charge on July 22.

After two first-half penalties, both awarded on soft calls, put the hosts ahead through Bénie Traoré and Luighi, the Union responded with character. Second-half substitutes Jesús Bueno and Quinn Sullivan proved decisive in the turnaround.

Following a midweek rotation against Santos Laguna, Richter made 11 changes and returned to the same XI that faced Atlanta United on August 1. Andre Blake started in goal behind a backline of Frankie Westfield, Nathan Harriel, Neil Pierre, and Kai Wagner. Jovan Lukić and Danley Jean Jacques anchored the midfield as the two No. 6s, with Indiana Vassilev and Cavan Sullivan ahead of them as the two No. 10s. Milan Iloski and Bruno Damiani led the line up front.

(Credit: Philadelphia Union)

NYCFC scored early. In the fourth minute Maxwell Murray played a long ball over the top for Andrés Perea, who had slipped in behind the Union defense. Neil Pierre headed the ball toward Perea and was judged to have pulled him down in the box. Traoré converted for his first career MLS goal.

Philadelphia nearly answered immediately. Wagner’s corner was cleared only as far as Iloski on the edge of the area. The forward’s first-time effort forced a sharp save from Matt Freese. In the 22nd minute, Westfield found Iloski in behind the NYCFC backline. One-on-one with Freese, Iloski attempted a chip that sailed wide.

Three minutes later Damiani laid the ball off for Vassilev, whose floated delivery found Iloski at the back post. The striker again shot first time but dragged it wide of the near post.

Blake made his first save in the 41st minute, denying Luighi after Freese launched a quick counter.

Just before the break, another soft penalty decision went against the Union. Lukić’s clearance fell to Perea, whose shot struck Vassilev’s arm. Luighi stepped up, as Blake did not dive, as the Brazilian would make it 2-0.

The Union headed into the locker room trailing by two goals for the third time this season, and the first under Richter. NYCFC held a 12-6 edge in shots at the half, yet the Union had created the clearer chances through Iloski.

The Union needed just three minutes of the second half to get one back. Wagner’s free kick found Cavan Sullivan, who headed it down for Danley. The midfielder beat his man and finished low to the far post.

Blake produced another strong stop in the 54th minute, tipping a free header from James Sands over the bar to keep the score at 2-1, still in New York City’s favor.

Richter made his first change in the 62nd minute, bringing on Jesús Bueno for Lukic.

The equalizer came in the 69th minute. Bueno won the ball in midfield and released Iloski. The striker found the overlapping Cavan Sullivan, who had time and space to cut it back for Damiani. The forward slotted home to make it 2-2.

A minute later Quinn Sullivan replaced Vassilev in the 70th minute.

Damiani completed his brace in the 75th minute. After Cavan Sullivan’s attempted ball forward was intercepted, Bueno won it back and found Quinn Sullivan wide open on the left. Facing a 3-v-1, Quinn cut it back for Damiani, who finished cleanly for his first career MLS brace (and second overall after scoring against Defence Force in Concacaf Champions Cup earlier this year).

Alejandro Bedoya came on for Cavan Sullivan in the 80th minute.

The Union created several late chances, most involving Quinn Sullivan. One cutback for Bueno was intercepted, but the clearance only reached Wagner, who returned it to Quinn. His shot hit the side netting. In the second minute of stoppage time Quinn played another cutback for Iloski, whose low drive was saved by Freese.

Philadelphia outshot NYCFC 11-4 in the second half. Blake needed only one save after the break and finished with two on the night. Cavan Sullivan recorded two assists, the first multi-assist game of his young career, while Richter’s side stayed perfect in MLS under the interim coach.

The Union keep finding ways to dig themselves out of holes. Down two goals again, they refused to fold, got contributions from across the roster, and left New York with three points and their playoff hopes still very much alive. Now, the Union will return to Subaru Park on Wednesday as they welcome Inter Miami to town, as the Union will try and keep this unbeaten run intact.

Key Moments

4’ | Bénie Traoré Goal

45+2’ | Luighi Goal

48’ | Danley Goal

69’ | Bruno Damiani Goal

75’ | Bruno Damiani Brace

Video credit: MLS/Apple TV

Episode 427 - Julián Carranza’s Return is Spoiled By Philadelphia’s 3-1 Win Over Necaxa

Todd Lewis — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 13:49:42 GMT

The Philadelphia Union picked up a 3-1 win over Necaxa on Sunday night for their first win of Leagues Cup, ruining Julián Carranza’s return to Subaru Park for the first time since June of 2024. Todd and Evan Konigsberg give their thoughts on the game with topics including: Julián Carranza’s homecoming, are Philadelphia Union that bad, or is Necaxa that bad, and what does the future hold next for Cavan Sullivan? Plus, Todd talks about this weeks Blunder of The Week which includes a U20 game between USA and Mexico.

Philadelphia Union v Necaxa:

Players progressing under Ryan Richter / Leagues Cup overall as a tournament: [11:50]
Julian Carranza’s homecoming: [30:13]
Were the Union really good, or Necaxa that bad: [40:34]
What’s Next For Cavan Sullivan: [54:55]

Blunder of The Week:

Chris Applewhite red card against Mexico U20: [1:10:03]

Photo Credit: Don Robson

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