Photo: Marjorie Elzey
Who: Philadelphia Union vs CF Montréal
What: Leagues Cup, Round of 32
Where: Subaru Park, Chester, Pennsylvania
When: Friday, August 9, 7:30 PM EST
Watch: Free on Apple TV
Whistle: TBD
Philadelphia Union emerged top of their group, earning a spot in the Leagues Cup Round of 32. They’ll begin their knockout campaign at home against a familiar Eastern Conference opponent in CF Montreal.
The Union have faced the Canadian side twice so far this season in MLS play, picking up a draw and a loss. The most recent face-off between the two sides was on the road at Stade Saputo, where the Union ultimately fell 4-2.
Scouting Report: CF Montréal
This will be Montréal’s first-ever knockout round in Leagues Cup, having fallen in the group stage in 2023. Philadelphia is a familiar opponent this year, and overall, six different Club players have found the back of the net against the Union this year: Sunusi Ibrahim, Samuel Piette, Josef Martínez, Bryce Duke, Dominic Iankov and Ruan.
Injury Report: N/A
Scouting Report: Philadelphia Union
Unlike the previous matchups between the two clubs, this time, Philadelphia will have the whole gang back together. Most notably, Nate Harriel and Jack McGlynn have returned after leading Team USA to the Olympic quarterfinals. The pair are the last to return to the team after a busy summer of international competitions including Copa America and UEFA Euros.
Injury Report: N/A
Matchup to Watch: Andre Blake vs. Montréal offense
While this is the Union’s third time playing Montréal, it will be Blake’s first game against the Bleu-blanc-noir this year. Oliver Semmle and Andrew Rick split starting duties for the two previous matches.
Player to Watch: Tai Baribo
Even when he’s not scoring goals, he’s working up and down the pitch to ensure his teammates have their best game. It’ll be interesting to see how Baribo plays after a frustrating game against Cruz Azul.
Prediction: Philadelphia Union 2-1 CF Montréal
Expect the return of the Olympic youngsters to inject some energy into the Union. Coupled with a (hopefully) friendlier home atmosphere, I think it will be easy enough for the Boys in Blue to find their stride.
Please don’t play Harriel.
This should be a good litmus test for the Union.
—
Montreal beat them last time out when the U were very thin in numbers and in the middle of that crazy winless streak
—
With recent form considered, feels like the Union should pull off the win (dare I say easily), especially at home.