NYCFC vs Philadelphia Union: How to watch, time, and more of rivalry game

New York City FC was just in Canada where they took on Toronto FC for the second time this season.  The Pigeons, after a superb performance by Matt Freese, won 3-2, securing their first road victory of the year.  The match saw the team score three times for the first time as well, and Malachi Jones scored his first goal in Major League Soccer.  As such, the mood is a great one right now… for the most part.

After the final whistle, there was a brawl amongst numerous players.  Strahinja Tanasijević headbutted former captain Sean Johnson, while there was plenty of pushing and shoving between the two teams.  Apparently, this stemmed from the home game back in March, and the Toronto FC head coach John Herdman accused Nick Cushing of punching one of his players during halftime of that fixture.  This caused much speculation and questions among MLS fans.  Meanwhile, the NYCFC head coach denies such an action took place. NYCFC asked the league to investigate, so he will let the legal team and MLS take it from there.

Therefore, the Bronx side is heading into Pennsylvania with plenty of drama.  They will need to focus though and turn their attention to the Philadelphia Union, who has had their number over the last few years.  In fact, the visiting team has not beaten one of their biggest Eastern Conference rivals since the 2021 MLS Cup playoffs, losing the next five MLS games, including playoffs.

Can NYCFC win back-to-back matches on the road?  Based on the last few years, and the fact they won just once away from home in 2023, it is difficult to see a positive outcome.  However, the Union has been struggling as of late, last winning in early April.  On the other side, the Pigeons have lost once in their last seven games.

How to watch and time of the game between NYCFC and the Philadelphia Union

Date

Wednesday, May 15

Time

7:30 PM ET, with expected kickoff at 7:40 PM ET

How to watch on TV and streaming

The MLS Season Pass via Apple TV

How to watch in person

Supporters would have to travel to Chester to see the game at Subaru Park

How to listen

newyorkcityfc.com/radio and via the NYCFC app

How to follow

If NYCFC fans cannot watch or listen to the game, they can follow along via NYCFC’s X account and MLS Soccer’s timeline.

Final Notes

Cushing revealed that Mounsef Bakrar was not available on Saturday due to a slight knock he received in training the day before.  He should be ready to go for Wednesday, but will he start?  It would be smart of the head coach to let him have more of a break and come on as a substitute.  Perhaps the striker can score off the bench, which would do wonders for his mental health.