For the first time in six years, the Philadelphia Union failed to secure a result against the New York Red Bulls, losing 1-0 on Saturday night.
The Union, playing their second match in four days, made several changes to their lineup. The match marked another intense chapter in the Eastern Conference rivalry. After a goalless first half, Philadelphia had an opportunity to take the lead when Bruno Damiani stepped up for a penalty kick. However, former Union goalkeeper Carlos Coronel saved the attempt. Following this moment, momentum shifted to New York, and Dylan Nealis scored the only goal of the game in the 74th minute.
This defeat ended Philadelphia’s franchise-record streak of 16 consecutive results against the Red Bulls.
Looking ahead, Philadelphia Union will return to Subaru Park next weekend for an Eastern Conference matchup with Chicago Fire. The upcoming fixture will also serve as Fiesta Hispana presented by BIMBO Bakeries. Limited tickets remain available for purchase online.
Head Coach Bradley Carnell altered his starting eleven from Wednesday’s U.S. Open Cup Quarterfinal win. Andre Blake started in goal but was forced off due to injury after making a key save on Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting in the 23rd minute. Nineteen-year-old Andrew Rick replaced him between the posts.
The backline included Olivier Mbaizo and Kai Wagner on the outside with Olwethu Makhanya and Nathan Harriel at centerback. Jakob Glesnes was absent due to yellow card accumulation. Jovan Lukic, Jesus Bueno, and Alejandro Bedoya formed the midfield trio while Chris Donovan played as an attacking midfielder behind strikers Mikael Uhre and newly signed Milan Iloski.
Carnell used substitutions throughout: Bruno Damiani entered at halftime for Donovan; Quinn Sullivan and Tai Baribo came on during the second half as Philly pushed for points.
Despite late efforts—including a shot from Wagner that narrowly missed—the Union could not find an equalizer before full time.
