Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union II has secured a spot in the MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs for the third consecutive season. The team clinched its postseason berth with a 4-3 victory over New York City FC II on Monday evening.

Union II joins St. Louis CITY SC 2 and Tacoma Defiance as one of only three teams to make the playoffs in all three years of MLS NEXT Pro history. This achievement aligns with the club's Player Pathway philosophy, emphasizing youth development, as Union II boasts the youngest average age in the league.

The team's success has also led to individual accomplishments. Andrew Rick, CJ Olney, and David Vazquez have earned MLS Homegrown contracts, while Union Academy graduate Frankie Westfield signed his first professional contract with Union II. Contributions came from across the organization, including appearances by 12 members of the Union's MLS squad and a record 18 members of the Union Academy on matchday rosters this season.

Forwards Eddy Davis III, Sal Olivas, and Leandro Soria have led the front line despite limited prior experience in MLS NEXT Pro. Davis is competing for the league's Golden Boot with a club-record 13 goals in over 1,500 minutes played. Olivas and Soria have each added four goals this season. Their efforts, along with contributions from midfielders like Olney, Vazquez, and Team Captain Kyle Tucker, have resulted in Union II having the highest-scoring offense in the Eastern Conference with 56 goals in 27 matches.

While offensive achievements are notable, defense remains a priority for Union II. Despite rotating goalkeepers and defenders throughout the season, they have allowed the fourth fewest goals in the league as they near regular-season completion. Key defensive players include Neil Pierre, Olwethu Makhanya, Jamir Berdecio, and Westfield.

As Union II prepares for postseason play in pursuit of the MLS NEXT Pro Cup, there is still competition for seeding within a tight Eastern Conference table. Only two points separate them from FC Cincinnati 2 for the No. 1 seed. The top four seeds receive home matches and select their opponents regardless of final standings.

Playoff tickets will be announced soon. Philadelphia Union II concludes its regular-season home schedule against Atlanta United 2 on Sunday afternoon, September 29th.