Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union showcased resilience and determination, playing the second half with ten men and ultimately securing a victory in a penalty shootout against Liga MX’s Mazatlán FC to reach the Leagues Cup Semifinals.

The Union faced adversity just before halftime when Tai Baribo received his second yellow card. Despite being down a player, forward Mikael Uhre scored just before the halftime whistle. Mazatlán equalized in the 59th minute, sending the match to a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, Andre Blake made a diving save to deny David Colman, setting the tone for Philadelphia. Jose Martinez followed with a successful shot into the upper corner. After trading conversions in the second round, Blake made another crucial save against Alan Torres. Damion Lowe then put Philadelphia ahead 3-1 after three rounds. Mazatlán forced a fifth round after a Union shot hit the post, but Jesus Bueno secured victory with a decisive finish.

Head Coach Jim Curtin fielded a familiar lineup featuring Andre Blake in goal. The team lined up in a 4-4-2 diamond formation with Jack Elliott and Jakob Glesnes at center back, Nate Harriel at right back opposite Kai Wagner, and Leon Flach alongside homegrowns Jack McGlynn and Quinn Sullivan in midfield. Daniel Gazdag served as designated player, while Mikael Uhre and Tai Baribo started up front.

Notable names on Curtin’s bench included Danley Jean Jacques, making his first matchday roster appearance since signing on August 8th, and Jose Martinez, who has been subject to transfer rumors throughout the week.

Blake made significant saves early on, including stopping an attempt from Alonso Escoboza in the 30th minute. The Union's attacking efforts saw Uhre score after beating his defender and getting past Ricardo Gutiérrez in net.

The second half saw Mazatlán capitalize on their numerical advantage with Escoboza scoring off a quick restart following a foul by Glesnes. Both teams made several substitutions as they sought to break the deadlock.

Despite being under pressure from Mazatlán, Philadelphia continued to create chances through set pieces but were unable to find another goal during regular time. In stoppage time, Blake made another critical save off a header from Facundo Almada to keep the score tied at 1-1.

As penalties loomed, Jose Martinez took to the pitch amidst applause from fans. The game concluded with Philadelphia prevailing in penalties to advance to face Columbus Crew in the semifinals on August 21st.