Photo courtesy of the Philadelphia Union

The Philadelphia Union’s record poor start to the season continued after dropping a 2-1 result at home to Gregg Berhalter’s Chicago Fire. After conceding a flukey opener, they mounted a quick response, scoring just their third goal this season to level the game before the break. But, a poor second half doomed the Boys in Blue to another losing effort. Philadelphia have now lost 5 matches in a row and are nailed to the bottom of the league table with 0 points. Let’s get into the ratings.

Player Ratings:

Andre Blake – 5

The Jamaican net-minder was hung out to dry on the first goal, and in most of the second half. He ultimately didn’t face many shots on target. Perhaps he could have covered his near post better on the Fire’s winner, but pro players typically score on open shots in the box.

Phillipe Ndinga – 4

While it was good to see the Union’s latest U22 signing get more involved in the attack, he had a couple of notable mistakes, namely a costly turnover that led to the Fire’s game winner. Still, as he continues to settle in and develop, Nidinga seems likely to become a solid player.

Olwethu Makhanya – 4

While his technical ability is always an asset, he was shaky on defense in this one. Perhaps it was due to the Union’s poor press – and the dangerous counterattacks they gave up – but if Mak is going to be ‘The Guy’ at CB this season, he needs to take a step up.

Nathan Harriel – 6

At center back this game, Harriel was solid on defence, including a highlight reel worthy play during first half stoppage time where his perfectly timed last-ditch slide tackle saved a certain goal. Unfortunately, his on-ball play limited the Union’s build up and attacking threat in the box.

Frankie Westfield – 7

Philly’s best player on the night. The Union’s attack flows better when Westfield is involved with it, so it’s interesting that they mainly choose to attack through the left. Created some dangerous chances down the right wing. Secondary assist from his throw-in. Game-leading 5 fouls drawn.

Jesús Bueno – 6

The Venezuelan midfielder was involved in a little bit of everything during a good first half. He got brutally unlucky on the deflection that led to the Fire’s first goal. It’s a shame he was withdrawn at the break, but it was likely a planned substitution, considering he went all 90 in Mexico midweek.

Danley Jean-Jacques – 5

The Union’s midfield engine had a bright start to the game, helping the team regain possession on defense multiple times, and got involved in the buildup. But, he stalled out after the interval, and was substituted.

Alejandro Bedoya – 5

El Capitán picked up a nice assist on a trademarked flicked header, and even hit the crossbar on another setpiece chance. While he still brings leadership and aggression, his legs don’t have the same juice anymore, and it really started to show the longer he was on the field.

Cavan Sullivan – 6

One of the few bright spots for the Union – both in this game and on the season. His quickness and ability to beat his man on the dribble are traits this squad is sorely lacking. Starting to look the part more and more, but still waiting for him to truly take over a game in MLS.

Milan Iloksi – 4

Finally got off the mark in MLS this season but hasn’t hit the dizzying heights that he did in 2025. The former UCLA Bruin had better set piece deliveries in this one, and won a few fouls, but overall there were too many turnovers and loose passes. Respect for attempting that audacious bicycle kick effort.

Bruno Damiani – 3

The Union’s sole DP racked up plenty of defensive actions and fouls drawn but just 2 shots and none on target. While his hustle leads to some effective pressing moves, his lack of pace severely limits his effectiveness in this current setup. This team just doesn’t play to his strengths right now.

 

Substitutes:

Jovan Lukić – 5

Better passing from the Serb in his appearance off the bench. While defensive work is his bread and butter, he could’ve done better during the transition on the Fire’s game winner. 

Indiana Vassilev – 3

Aside from a good take on a free-kick opportunity, almost nothing Indy tried came off.

Malik Jakupovic – 5

The Union’s ‘Next Big Thing’ showed some flashes in his MLS debut. It would be good to see him and Cavan get time together.

Jeremy Rafanello – 4

Unable to positively affect the Union’s chances much.

Ben Bender– N/a

It’s clear Bender offers something on the ball, but is he really going to get involved out of his natural position at left back?

Geiger Counter:

Nabil Bensalah– 6

Definitely missed a few calls on both sides, but nothing too dramatic. Overall, fairly consistent decisions, so can’t complain about much.

Player of the Match: Jonathan Bamba

Jonathan Bamba is a pacey, attack-minded player, who threatens on the ball while offering a high-work rate. Just like his playoff game against Philly last season, he was a constant threat, and stretched the field vertically. His hard work was rewarded with a relatively simple goal off a counter attack, which won the game for the Fire. He is a great example of what the Union are sorely missing this season.

What’s Next

The Philadelphia Union will have the week off but Andre Blake won’t, as he and Jamaica travel to Mexico for the FIFA World Cup Inter-Confederation Playoffs. Should Jamaica beat Oceania’s New Caledonia, they will face off with the DR Congo to decide the final spot in Group K at this Summer’s tournament. It’s crunch time for the Reggae Boyz as they look to return to the world stage for the first time since their debut at France ‘98.

Meanwhile, the Union will have an extra week to prepare for an April 4th away day to Charlotte FC, who are coming off a 6-1 demolition of NYRB.