Photo courtesy of the Philadelphia Union

The Philadelphia Union finally won their first home game of the 2026 season, defeating rivals Red Bull New York 3-1 on the back of some significant performances. Kai Wagner made his first appearance after his shock transfer back to Philly, Quinn Sullivan returned from injury, and Neil Pierre turned heads in his first game of the season. All in all, it was probably the best game of the year. Let’s get into the ratings.

Player Ratings:

Andre Blake – 7

The Union captain made a few key saves, most crucially on Julian Hall’s breakaway chance in the 54th minute. Could’ve done better on the RBNY goal but was not primarily at fault. 

Kai Wagner – 8

It’s no coincidence the Union looked better on both sides of the ball in the German’s first game back with Philly. He racked up 5 interceptions, and put in dangerous deliveries from the left all night. While he’ll only be credited with an assist on the third goal, it was his cross that Horvath fumbled on the Union’s opener. 

Japhet Sery Larsen – 6

A quiet night for the Dane, which is usually a good thing for a center back. Subbed off early and was seen applying ice to his hamstring, which was just due to “tightness” according to interim head coach Ryan Richter.

Nathan Harriel – 5

The Union’s defensive utility player put in a solid shift overall, but was responsible for the RBNY opener. He pressed Ronald Donkor too high, which allowed Cade Cowell to find the space necessary to beat Blake. It appears that Harriel will fill in at RCB pending Makhanya’s sale, which on the whole will be an acceptable solution for the remainder of the season, if need be.

Frankie Westfield – 7

Overall, the youngster put in a good showing. He did well to assist the game winner, but how did he miss that chance in the 3rd minute?

Danley Jean-Jacques – 7

Great to see the Union’s midfield engine back after a solid showing with Haiti at the World Cup. Active on both sides of the ball with 5 interceptions and 25 accurate passes, the most on the night for the Union.

Jovan Lukić – 6

The Serbian put in a standard shift in the middle of the park. No major highlights or low-lights, all things considered. 

Cavan Sullivan – 7

The 16 year old phenom might not have gotten on the scoresheet, but he was a joy to watch last night. His level has clearly risen tremendously over the break. Although he was too selfish at times, if he keeps playing at that level, he will certainly have a strong finish to the season. 

Indiana Vassilev – 7

Some good moments and some frustrating ones. Netted the game winner with a tricky finish in the box. 

Bruno Damiani – 4

On one hand, the Young DP had several nice plays that set up chances for his teammates, including a nearly spectacular run in the 81st minute. In fact, his 4 key passes were the joint highest of the match (equal to Milan Iloski & Emil Forsberg). On the other hand, most viewers will remember his astonishing failure to convert in the 44th minute. He might fit the system, but his lack of goals is a major concern.

Milan Iloski – 8

Dangerous with the ball at his feet, and good movement off of it. Converted with a clinical finish on the opener, and was unlucky not to get at least one assist on the night. Honestly, he should have scored more than once.

Substitutes:

Neil Pierre – 7

My oh my, what do we have here? After fans have been clamoring for the former academy starlet to get time, Pierre made a successful appearance following his loan spell, coming off the bench to score his first MLS goal. Feels like a game that everyone will look back on in the future as an important step in his career.

Quinn Sullivan– 6

Great to see the elder Sullivan return from his injury. He seemed sharp, but the nature of the game was such that he didn’t get to show off his tendency for the spectacular.

Jesús Bueno – N/a

While it was also great to see ChuChu return from his previous injury, there was little time for him to affect the match meaningfully. 

Ezekiel Alladoh – N/a

Late sub to keep legs fresh and close out the game.

Geiger Counter:

Fotis Bazakos – 3

Seemed to be far more concerned with nit-picky line calls and ball placement than fouls during live play. Although there’s something to be said in letting two teams play physically, he was probably too lenient in this one.

Player of the Match: Kai Wagner

What else is there to say? Kai’s back, and with Quinn Sullivan’s return and the potential emergence of Neil Pierre, the Union’s fortunes could change drastically in the back half of the campaign.  

What’s Next

The Union will look to get back-to-back victories for the first time this season next match on Saturday, July 25th against a Seattle Souders side without Jordan Morris and in the midst of a 4-game losing streak. Kick-off is slated for 7:30 PM at Subaru Park.