NYCFC vs Philadelphia Union preview: A major challenge in the MLS Cup Playoffs

New York City FC proved they can continue to win on the road this season after winning both matches against Charlotte FC in the Round One Best-of-3 series.  The win in the final match means that the Pigeons will face the Philadelphia Union in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.  They were eliminated in this round last year of the MLS Cup Playoffs and would love to move on via an upset against one of their rivals.

However, recent injuries, especially to Alonso Martínez, have raised doubts about this goal.  Sure, NYCFC only lost 1-0 when they last faced the Union in Chester, and competed throughout the game.  But the fact that three starters will definitely not play this weekend means that the Pigeons might need a little magic if they want to defeat the Supporters’ Shield winners. 

Of course, other players must step up.  NYCFC will need Hannes Wolf to be at his very best, and ideally find his goal-scoring form.  Thiago Martins and the backline have to be like a brick wall to prevent the Union from scoring.  Matt Freese is a great goalkeeper, but as seen in the USMNT games, he cannot always make the great saves when those in front of him make mistakes.  Plus, whoever replaces Martínez, Andrés Perea, and Aiden O’Neill, who is out due to yellow card accumulation, must be at 100% for the entire time they are on the pitch.

So, like the last match, this could be the final time NYCFC takes the pitch in 2025.  Therefore, let’s take a look at the preview of the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

NYCFC vs Philadelphia Union preview

Date

NYCFC and Philadelphia will play on Sunday, November 23.

Time

The game will start at 7:45 PM ET.

Location

The match will occur at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania.  

How to watch

Supporters can watch the fixture on the MLS Season Pass via Apple TV, which will be available for free for Apple TV subscribers.  In addition, fans can watch on FS1.

Weather

It will be around 48 degrees with a slight breeze.  Coats will be needed, but thankfully, skies will be clear.  There is no rain in the forecast.

Injury report

Malachi Jones (leg), Alonso Martínez (leg), Keaton Parks (leg), and Andrés Perea (leg) are all out for the Pigeons.  In addition, Aiden O’Neill will miss the match due to yellow card accumulation.

Players to watch

NYCFC fans should watch everyone in this game.  As mentioned, many players must step up and find a way to beat the Union.  The only way the Bronx side can win is by everyone being at 100%.  Nobody can make mistakes.  Players must be threatening on the goal and become a brick wall when defending.

On Philadelphia, Andre Blake is the player to watch.  The Boys in Blue have to put the ball past him if they want to shock everyone and continue in the MLS Cup Playoffs.  While the goalkeeper has struggled a little with injury, he is back and has had four clean sheets in his last six games.  While he was not the best keeper this year, Blake is still one of the best in the league.  He could make a difference for the Union.

Prediction

With the players missing, it is difficult to see NYCFC moving on in the playoffs.  Therefore, the Pigeons will lose 2-0.  They will play well at certain points, but the lack of consistency and inability to score will see the Union come out on top.