NYCFC vs Philadelphia Union preview: Can the Pigeons beat Philadelphia?

The last time New York City FC won a match against the Philadelphia Union was in 2021 during the MLS Cup playoffs.  Since then, the Union has come out on top in every game.  This has led the head-to-head record to be even, where both sides have ten wins, with two fixtures ending in a draw. 

As such, NYCFC will look to utilize their win against Toronto FC to spark a possible win in Pennsylvania.  The Pigeons have the perfect chance too thanks to the Union’s recent struggles.  But will the events after the Toronto game impact the play on the pitch?  Thankfully, the team will only be without Strahinja Tanasijević, who received a red card after the altercation.  However, the craziness of it all might be on the players’ minds, hindering their upcoming performances.

Truthfully, there is so much more that can be discussed about the events that led to the brawl.  Nevertheless, Skyscraper Blues will wait until the investigation into the Nick Cushing accusation is complete.  Instead, while it might be difficult, everyone should focus on the game at hand.  There is no better time to beat Philadelphia.

Therefore, let’s turn to the upcoming battle.  Here is a preview of the game between NYCFC and the Philadelphia Union.

Date

NYCFC and Philadelphia will face one another on Wednesday, May 15.

Time

The game is at 7:30 PM ET.

Location

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

How to watch

Fans can watch the match on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass.

Weather

The rain must be following NYCFC, for this can be the third match in a row where rain is in the forecast.  There is a 40% chance at kickoff and it will be about 62 degrees.

Injury report

Maxi Moralez (right knee) is working toward his return, but will still be out. Rio Hope-Gund (right leg) is also not available. Strahinja Tanasijević is not injured but is out due to his red card.

Players to watch

After a superb performance over the weekend, NYCFC fans should watch goalkeeper Matt Freese, who will be returning to his old stomping ground.  He had nine saves against Toronto, again illuminating why he won the starting role at the end of last year.  Arguably, he allows the Pigeons the ability to compete every week.  It will be interesting to see how he does against his former club.

On Philadelphia, supporters should watch Andre Blake.  Usually one of the better keepers, he has been struggling this season.  It will be interesting to see how he does in an Eastern Conference rivalry game.  In addition, everyone should watch to see who does better on Wednesday: Freese or Blake.

Update: Blake is out for the match, so fans should watch whoever ends up in goal.

Prediction

While NYCFC won in Canada, it is difficult to picture the team winning another road game when they normally struggle away from home.  Hence, the prediction is that the Pigeons and Union will end the game in a 1-1 draw.  Each team will do well defensively, with the goals being the outliers of the fixture.