Photo courtesy of Paul Rudderow
Who: Philadelphia Union vs Orlando City SC
What: MLS Regular Season, Matchday 1
Where: Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, Florida
When: Saturday, February 22, 7:30 PM EST
Watch: Apple TV MLS Season Pass
Whistle: TBD
The Philadelphia Union begin their 2025 MLS campaign with a visit to Orlando City SC’s Inter&Co Stadium.
Scouting Report: Orlando City SC
After losing to the New York Red Bulls in the 2024 Eastern Conference Finals, Orlando City has seen some changes to their core roster. The most devastating, of course, may be the loss of Facundo Torres to Brazil side Palmeiras. While the Torres-shaped hole has been masked with the signings of Marco Pasilic (HNK Rijeka), Nicolás Rodríguez (Fortaleza CEIF), and Eduard Atuesta (Palmeiras), expect to see his departure felt throughout the season.
Last season, Orlando City ranked in the bottom half of the league for expected goals, while boasting one of the best defenses in the league. If the free-flowing, dynamic attacking quartet they’ve assembled can remedy their final-third slump, we could see the team take a huge leap this year.
Injury Report: N/A
Scouting Report: Philadelphia Union
It’s no secret that after failing to make the playoffs for the first time since 2017, Philly has said some shocking goodbyes. However bittersweet, though, those goodbyes have made way for some interesting signings, including Uruguayan striker Bruno Damiani and midfielder Indiana Vassilev from St. Louis CITY SC.
The true test for the Union will be seeing if they can return to the playoffs this year. Doing so depends on the team’s ability to return Subaru Park to the fortress it once was; while relying on a resurrected defense and a lethal press led by the trifecta of Uhre, Baribo, and Gazdag.
Injury Report: N/A
Matchup to Watch: Orlando’s attacking 4 vs Union’s backline
The departure of Jack Elliott raises doubts on what was already a shaky Union backline. Keep an eye out on Jakob Glesnes to see how he is 1) recovering post last season’s hernia surgery and 2) stepping into a leadership role with the youngins.
Player to Watch: …all of them
New coach, oldish ethos, mostly revamped team….who knows what we’re in for?
Prediction: Union 1-1 Orlando City SC
A perfectly Philadelphia start to the season–nothing that might cause unrealistic expectations, but nothing devastating…I hope.
As you said, Who knows ? So many changing parts. I will be at the game.
1-1? I predict a 3-1 loss
I’m excited/curious to see how they roll out and look for the first time in a few years. I’m maybe less optimistic out the gate than past years, but that’s something.
But, we can’t keep doing it the same way can we? “as new life comes from death”
Good review. So many unknowns. Actually really excited about the season just for seeing new players.
… am excited, looking forward to seeing the new coach and the striker corp… fast, young and aggressive, we’ll see if they can hold up to a 34 game MLS season. And if defence can just not make mistakes. Should be fun, again.