Photo by Kyle Grantham/Philly Soccer Page

The Philadelphia Union dominated in both possession and shots against an Orlando City side that seem determined to foul, delay, and otherwise frustrate their opponents. Despite the 21 shots that the Boys in Blue sent towards the Lions’ net, only 4 were on target and Philly was unable to break the deadlock. Although their defense largely held off Orlando’s few forays forward, Andre Blake needed to don the superman cape a handful of times to keep the Lions off the board. Let’s get into the ratings.

Player Ratings:

Andre Blake – 8

The Jamaican net-minder made 3 saves and all of them were at critical junctures in the match. His first stonewalled Marco Pašalić right before halftime. The next 2 saves came in the second half, during a brief period when Orlando took control of the game. It’s thanks to Blake that the Union got a point.

Nathan Harriel – 7

Deployed on the left side on Saturday, Harriel put in a good shift. His work-rate was high on both ends of the pitch. Defensively, he was great in the air and the ground, while being able to jumpstart attacks.

Jakob Glesnes – 6 

Decent game from the Rocketman. Aside from one untimely slip (and he wasn’t the only player who touched earth on the night), he looked far more steady against Orlando than the week prior. Solid all around without being spectacular.

Ian Glavinovic – 7

The young Argentine is building a strong case for his continued selection in the starting eleven. Glavinovic was confident in defense and poised when playing high up in Orlando’s half. Unfortunately, it appears he has suffered a meniscus tear that will require surgery – according to a story posted on his Instagram account. Hopefully, an official announcement from the Union will come soon.

Frankie Westfield – 6

Another decent showing from the U-20 World Cup hopeful. His performances will give Carnell a bit of a conundrum once Kai Wagner is healthy again.

Danley Jean-Jacques – 6

Lots of good defensive work from Danley. Did well linking the lines in attack. Can tell he wants that first goal, but his long shots will have to improve for that to happen.

Jovan Lukić – 7

Man, Lukić was EVERYWHERE. He covered a ton of ground and showed more of his uncanny ability to retain possession. Shades of Darlington Nagbe. Almost scored yet another banger but didn’t quite have the long range strikes dialed in on the night.

Daniel Gazdag – 6

The Hungarian midfielder did a lot of good things on the night – especially his off ball movement – but none of them got the Union a needed goal. If his cross to Damiani in the 14th minute was more accurate, maybe the Union get all 3 points. Had one or two heavy touches that lost possession.

Quinn Sullivan – 5

Has stepped up as the primary set-piece taker in Wagner’s absence. Had some deliveries into good areas, and worked some creative combinations on short corner kick routines. But, his usual spark was missing, especially his willingness to take players on on the dribble.

Bruno Damiani – 6

Had the two best chances for the Union but neither worked out. Did well to get on the end of Gazdag’s cross in the 47th minute but Gallese was equal to it. Led both sides in shots with 4. His hold up ability is well noted.

Tai Baribo – 4

Unfortunately, Baribo seems to have suffered without Kai Wagner. Of his 6 goals, Wagner has assisted 3 of them. Hopefully, the service he gets will improve with Kai’s return or a team adjustment, because it’s not a lack of effort or ability from Baribo, but he simply wasn’t able to affect much on the night.

Substitutes:

Indiana Vassilev – 6

Brought a needed spark to the Union attack. Extra credit for trolling Schlegel.

Mikael Uhre – 5

While the nature of the game didn’t exactly suit his skill-set, Uhre helped link up attacks with his short passes. If his backheel to Cavan paid off, it would’ve been an unforgettable moment. Possibly should’ve won a penalty.

Alejandro Bedoya – 4

Rougher than usual showing for Bedoya, lost possession a few times.

Cavan Sullivan – 6

The young-er Sullivan looked dangerous in his 10 + minutes. More of that please.

Geiger Counter

Ismir Pekmic –  4

Seemed to miss some calls on the Union while giving Orlando the same fouls. Still, had much to think about as he felt the need to whistle for 27 fouls. Handed out 9 yellow cards, 5 to Orlando. Orlando came into this game with the intent of disrupting the Union’s flow as much as possible and they succeeded in that endeavor. Might have missed a PK call for the Union early into stoppage time.

Player of the Match – Andre Blake

His first save on Pašalić and second on Muriel were some classic #SavesByDre material. Without him the Union lose this game.

What’s Next

With the draw, the Union sit in 3rd place in the Eastern Conference. Next weekend Philly will travel to Citi Field and its “funhouse mirror-like” dimensions to face off with NYCFC. The Citizens have had a rough start to 2025 and it will be interesting how if small field will play into the Union’s play style.