Photo courtesy of the Philadelphia Union

Who: Philadelphia Union (6th place, 47 points, 13-12-8) vs. Toronto FC (12th place, 39 points, 9-12-12)
What: MLS Regular Season Decision Day
Where: Subaru Park
When: Saturday, November 7th, 4 PM
Watch: Apple TV
Whistle: Ref: Timothy Ford, AR1: Ian McKay, AR2: Tyler Wyrostek, 4th: Chris Penso, VAR: Kevin Terry Jr, AVAR: Robert Schaap

The Philadelphia Union will host the already eliminated Toronto FC on MLS Decision Day. After a franchise record undefeated streak, the Union’s recent form has cooled off, following a number of key injuries and absences. However, with several of those players returning, the Union will be eyeing a return to the win column, which would see them avoid the Wild Card Round and go directly to Round One of MLS Cup Playoffs. Additionally, club captain and legend Alejandro Bedoya announced his retirement, and will be honored at the game.

Scouting report: Toronto FC (T-L-L-W-L)

Red Tide

Since joining Major League Soccer in 2007, Toronto FC has spent a significant portion of their history near or at the bottom of the standings. However, during the second half of the 2010’s, they executed one of the greatest glow-ups in MLS history, making 3 MLS Cups and winning one in 2017. But, the tide has turned yet again in the 2020’s, and the Reds currently find themselves outside of the playoff picture yet again.

A New (Maple) Leaf?

After the infamous failed tenure of high-profile Italian duo Lorenzo Insigine and Fernando Bernardeschi, as well as Front Office turnover, Toronto has tried to stabilize on and off the field. Current Head Coach Robin Fraser was appointed ahead of the 2025 season, and has been tasked with navigating a rebuilding period. 

The key acquisitions of Designated Player Josh Sargent, Hungarian Dániel Sallói, and 2x MLS Defender of the Year Walker Zimmerman were designed to overhaul the roster. But, while these players have performed well enough, it has not been enough to overcome roster weaknesses. Injuries have also been a recurring theme for the Reds. Djorde Mihalovic has missed significant time this season, and summer signing Nelson Palacios won’t be ready until next season. Luka Gavran, the usual starter in net, was a late scratch. His absence will open the door for William Yarborough to make his first league start since 2024.

Last Time Out

The first matchup between these teams this season provided a high-scoring game that resulted in a 3-3 tie following a last-minute goal by Toronto goalkeeper Luka Gavran. Sargent and Sallói each got on the scoresheet as well. Needless to say, the narratives have changed massively since that April 22nd game. 

For the Union, team captain Alejandro Bedoya nabbed an assist. The club legend recently announced his retirement, and could appear for some minutes in this one, despite an injury designation. What’s more, Union Interim Head Coach Ryan Richter formerly played for the Reds, making 13 appearances between 2013 and 2014. He will likely relish the opportunity to defeat his former team. 

• Injury report: OUT: Kobe Franklin (shoulder), OUT: Nelson Palacio (thigh), OUT: Walker Zimmerman (ankle), OUT: Benjamin Kuscevic (ankle), OUT: Luka Gavran (Wrist).
• Suspended: Alonso Coello: Yellow Card Accumulation

Scouting report: Philadelphia Union (W-T-L-T-L)

Back to Earth?

After a franchise best 15-game undefeated streak, the Union have seemingly fallen back to Earth. They have just one win in their last 5 games. However, injuries have been a contributing factor, and Philly has managed to keep those games close; both of their losses were by a single goal. They held league leading Nashville to a scoreless draw, and out-shot Cincinnati, showing that they are still capable of the heights they achieved since the World Cup break.

Injury Woes

Despite staying largely injury free over the season, the last few weeks have seen multiple key players miss games. The absences of leading scorer Milan Iloksi and top assist-maker Cavan Sullivan were particularly felt, as the pair has accounted for 47 goal contributions. The losses of midfielders Danley Jean-Jacques, Jésus Bueno and defender Japhet Sery Larsen did not help matters. Thankfully, Bueno, Jean-Jacques and the younger Sullivan have been fully cleared ahead of tonight’s game. But, Iloski and Larsen will likely remain unavailable. For all the positives that can be said of the team’s turnaround, depth has not been a factor this season, and is still a weak point – particularly at forward and defense.

Get Right Game

The best thing about this game is that Toronto has nothing to play for. While the Reds have talent on the attack, they are already out of post-season contention. The Union have every reason to put on a show in front of their home fans, especially as Alejandro Bedoya will likely receive his flowers. A win would see them avoid the Wild Card and rebuild momentum heading into the playoffs, whereas a loss could forecast another disappointing playoffs exit for Philly.

• Injury report: OUT: Milan Iloski (Hamstring), OUT: Japhet Sery Larsen (Concussion), QUESTIONABLE: Geiner Martinez (knee), QUESTIONABLE: Alejandro Bedoya (Eye).
• Suspended: N/a

Key matchup

Neil Pierre vs. Joshua Sargent

As Toronto’s marquee signing this season, Sargent has been one of the few bright spots for the Reds. Neil Pierre has quickly become one of the league’s rising stars, and will face another good test of his abilities tonight.

Player to Watch: Bruno Damiani

With Iloski on the sidelines, Damiani will shoulder the brunt of the team’s scoring responsibilities. The oft-maligned striker has silenced critics with his high level of play this season, and recently earned his first ever callup to the Uruguayan national team. All eyes will be on Bruno tonight.

Prediction: Philadelphia Union 1 – 0 Toronto FC

The Reds are already eliminated, are dealing with multiple injuries in defense, and have little to play for except pride. Meanwhile, the Union want to avoid the Wild Card Round and get back into the win column heading into the playoffs. Boys in Blue take care of business at home, even without their leading scorer.