Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Union

The Philadelphia Union finally broke their season-opening losing streak, coming back from a halftime deficit to earn a 2-1 victory at CF Montréal. The Union’s shaky first half was followed by a very encouraging second half, as the team showed some of the verve and confidence that have been missing so far this year.

Player Ratings:

GK Andre Blake – 7.5

There was nothing Blake could do after being left out to dry by his defense on Montréal’s goal. The Union talisman made several great plays throughout the game, most notably rushing out to stop Iván Jaime without conceding a penalty in the 13th minute.

CB Japhet Sery – 6.5

Took the header well for his first MLS goal. His partnership with Makhanya remains a work in progress.

CB Olwethu Makhanya – 4.5

Completed a few adventurous dribbles to advance the ball through midfield, but also had some sloppy moments in possession and defense, including on Montréal’s goal.

RB Nathan Harriel – 5

Had some uncharacteristically shaky moments in defense.

LB Frankie Westfield – 6

A fairly solid game from Westfield, although playing on the left may be limiting his attacking impact.

DM Jovan Lukić – 5

Had his pocket picked early, which led to Montréal’s early penalty shout, and still doesn’t look like his 2025 self.

DM Jesús Bueno – 7.5

Bueno has been a loyal servant to the Union for five years, and looks to be reaching a new level this season. Bueno was all over the pitch today, and finished the match-winner with a great strike to the far post.

AM Indiana Vassilev – 6

As always, Vassilev was generally hardworking and involved throughout.

AM Ben Bender – 5.5

A fairly anonymous performance in the rare start for Bender.

FWD Bruno Damiani – 5.5

Damiani took a beating up front, but couldn’t find the net on any of his four shots.

FWD Milan Iloski – 6

Iloski is capable of some good set-piece delivery, including on the Sery goal. Made a nice play and finish on his offsides goal in the second half.

Substitutes

(65’) Ezekiel Alladoh – 7

Alladoh’s best performance with the Union thus far, he changed the game with his aerial prowess and hold-up play. Rewarded with an assist off his flick-on header for Bueno’s match-winner.

(81’) Philippe Ndinga – 5

Brought some energy late and helped the Union close out the victory.

(81’) Alejandro Bedoya – 6

Drew a great save from Thomas Gillier with a diving header in the 84th minute.

(88’) Cavan Sullivan – N/A

Geiger Counter

REF Alexis Da Silva – 5.5

Gave out yellow cards like candy, but eventually made the right call on the non-penalty in the first half.

Player of the Match: Jesús Bueno

The game-winning goal capped off Bueno’s all-action performance.

What’s Next

The Philadelphia Union head back to Subaru Park to host rivals D.C. United on Saturday, April 18th (7:30 PM ET / Apple TV).