Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Union

Who: Philadelphia Union vs Atlas FC

What: Club Friendly Match

Where: Subaru Park, Chester, Pennsylvania

When: Saturday, June 7, 7:30 PM EST

Watch: No Stream Available

Whistle: TBD

The Philadelphia Union host Atlas FC in an international friendly as both teams look to sharpen their squads ahead of the next phase of their seasons. With key absences and fresh faces stepping up, this match promises a competitive test and a glimpse at emerging talent.

Scouting Report: Atlas FC

Atlas FC enters this friendly following a challenging Clausura 2025 season in Liga MX. Under the guidance of head coach Gonzalo Pineda, Atlas concluded the regular season in 14th place, missing out on the Liguilla playoffs . Their performance was marked by a strong home record, securing 20 points from 9 matches, but they struggled on the road, earning only 10 points from 9 away games.

Offensively, Atlas showcased resilience, with players like Uroš Đurđević contributing significantly to their goal tally. However, inconsistency in scoring and defensive lapses, such as a 1–5 loss to Club América, highlighted areas needing improvement. Defensively, the team faced challenges, conceding goals in key matches, including a 3–2 defeat to Mazatlán FC.

Scouting Report: Philadelphia Union

The Philadelphia Union enter their international friendly against Atlas FC riding the momentum of an 11-match unbeaten streak and holding the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Despite their strong form, the Union will be without several key players due to international call-ups and injuries—11 players are away, including Andre Blake, Quinn Sullivan, and Nathan Harriel, while Mikael Uhre may join Ian Glavinovich and Neil Pierre on the injury report.

Head coach Bradley Carnell will rely heavily on squad depth, as the team has already used 22 different starters this season. Atlas will be eager to avenge their narrow 3–2 aggregate loss to the Union in the 2023 Concacaf Champions League quarterfinals, where Julian Carranza’s brace sealed the Union’s advancement.

With frontline options like Tai Baribo also missing, players such as Jovan Lukic and Jesus Bueno will need to take on larger roles both in midfield creativity and defensive structure. Atlas’s attacking threats, including Julián Quiñones and Jonathan Herrera, will test the Union’s rotated back line.

Injury Report: Ian Glavinovich (Out), Neil Pierre (Out), Mikael Uhre (Questionable)

Matchup to Watch: Bruno Damiani vs. Gustavo Del Prete

As Philadelphia’s marquee offseason signing, Bruno Damiani will be central to the Union’s attack in this friendly, especially given several absences. His ability to integrate quickly and produce in the final third is key as the Union look to maintain their momentum. On the other side, Argentine forward Gustavo Del Prete, recently signed from Mazatlán, stands out as a vital offensive weapon for Atlas. His creativity and finishing will be crucial for a team eager to rebound from a disappointing Clausura.

Player to Watch: Jeremy Rafanello

With much of the Union’s attacking core unavailable, Rafanello has a prime opportunity to take on a larger role in the final third. His ability to link up with Damiani or Donovan up top, stretch the field and apply defensive pressure could be the key to breaking down Atlas’s back line. A strong showing could also bolster his case for increased playing time as the MLS season progresses.

Prediction: Union 2-1 Atlas FC

The Union’s defensive organization and home advantage give them a slight edge in what promises to be a competitive friendly.