Philadelphia Union Seize Control of MLS Playoffs with Thrilling Game One Triumph
The Philadelphia Union will be extremely satisfied with the structure of the 2025 MLS Cup playoff format.
After establishing a 2–0 advantage in the 75th minute of the opening match in their best-of-three series versus Chicago Fire, the Supporters' Shield champions crumbled in the closing 10 minutes, permitting the Fire and ex-Union standout Jack Elliott to equalize at 2–2 and push the match to a penalty shootout.
Fortunately for the Union, they could breathe easier moments later, securing victory in the penalty shootout.
Without needing to consider an aggregate tally, they can aim to seal the series in the second game when they travel to face the Fire this coming Saturday.
"I believe we delivered an excellent demonstration of our tactical approach," MLS Coach of the Year candidate Bradley Carnell commented after the match. "We executed well in transition phases, generated chaotic situations and capitalized on our chances when they arose. It's simply disappointing how we surrendered those two crucial moments at the conclusion."
Bueno: A Morale-Boosting Victory
Although the Union secured the Supporters' Shield for their second time in franchise history, few considered them MLS Cup frontrunners given the other championship contenders, particularly Lionel Messi's Inter Miami in the Eastern Conference.
It would have been a complete catastrophe if they had lost the opening game, especially considering the 13-point difference between the teams' regular-season point totals.
"It's extremely crucial for the squad's morale, after we complicated the match somewhat at the finish, but securing the win is vital," Jesus Bueno, who netted the decisive penalty, stated in Spanish.
"Our objective is crystal clear now, we don't want a third match, and for us, I believe there were several errors we committed and we complicated things for ourselves at the end, but we have the upcoming week to analyze our mistakes."
If they fail to do so, they might experience a similar destiny that Inter Miami endured when they were ousted by eighth-seeded Atlanta United last season.
For the moment, it's a significant step forward and one closer to reaching the semifinals.
Faith in Young Talent Frankie Westfield
Playoff evenings at Subaru Park rank among the most spectacular in MLS, with cool air drifting from the waterway, and supporters wrapped up creating one of the most energetic atmospheres in the league. For the Union, however, the weight of home crowd support—even during penalties—isn't a concern.
Considering the club's dependence on young players, Carnell showed no doubt in selecting 19-year-old U.S. youth international Frankie Westfield for the second penalty kick.
Coming off an impressive run to the round of 16 at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, he successfully converted his shot before Milan Iloski, Tai Baribo and Bueno completed the shootout triumph.
"As we gathered in the huddle with the coaching staff, Frankie told me he was ready... I responded, 'Excellent, let's proceed.' You could sense his self-assurance," Carnell explained. "I think you've witnessed Frankie rise to the occasion multiple times. When he entered the match, he displayed clear purpose in our game plan. He generated momentum and brought energy."
With the victory in hand, the Union will now focus on delivering a more comprehensive performance when they visit the Fire for the second game, hoping to complete the series sweep and progress to the Eastern Conference semifinals against either Charlotte FC or New York City FC.