Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union Academy opened their 2024-25 MLS NEXT season with significant victories over Achilles FC, showcasing a strong start across various age groups.

The Union Academy teams collectively scored 48 goals in six matches from the U12 level up to Union 3. Below are the match details:

Union Academy U-18s (3), Achilles FC (0)

The two-time defending Generation adidas Cup winners began their season with a decisive 3-0 shutout on Saturday morning at the WSFS Bank Sportsplex. Jack Illig scored in the 36th minute, followed by Anisse Saidi's goals in the 44th and 51st minutes. Gavin Atkinson and his defense secured a clean sheet.

"A good foundation to build upon," Head Coach Peter McDonnell commented post-match. "The structure with the ball improved during the game... There is still work to do against the ball and in transition but a good first run out in the league."

Union Academy U-16s (13), Achilles FC (0)

Under new coach Pedro Cavalcanti, the U-16s achieved a dominant performance with 13 goals from eight different players. Chuka Ebo led with a hat trick, while Willyam Ferreira, Malik Jakupovic, and Tyler Gladstone each scored twice. Jayden Kouadio, Samuel Gallegos, Timoni Gbalajobi, and Charlie Rian also contributed to the scoreline. Goalkeepers Marcelo Avalos and Charlie Lorenz shared duties for the shutout.

"Solid start of the season for the U-16s," Cavalcanti said. "Many goals scored and we maintained a clean sheet which is important... proud of how the team showed growth and maturity."

Union Academy U-14s (13), Achilles FC (1)

Phil Karn's U-14s mirrored this success with an emphatic 13-1 victory. Mateo Rosko netted five goals, Jordan Vasquez added two, and Kaden Carnes, Mohammed Yosaf, Joey Schottlander, Gael Gonzalez, Ian Heyward, and Evan Roberts each scored once.

"I was very pleased with the group's defensive starting position which led to pressing... Overall a very good team performance," Karn remarked.

Union Academy U-13s (10), Achilles FC (1)

The U-13s concluded their weekend with a commanding win as Mikey Blaszczyk recorded a hat trick.

"Overall the team performed well," Head Coach Willy Topp stated. "Pressure in attacking third was success... We still need to improve on possession but overall a successful start."

Union 3 (1), New Jersey Alliance (0)

In their UPSL season opener at WSFS Bank Sportsplex on Sunday, Philadelphia Union 3 secured a narrow 1-0 victory through Daniel Dixon's goal assisted by Luca Mazzola in the 25th minute.