Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union II aims to climb to the top of the Eastern Conference as they prepare to host Atlanta United 2 at Subaru Park for their final regular season match in the MLS NEXT Pro season. The game will be available on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, starting at 3 PM ET on Sunday.

Union II's young roster comes into this match with strong momentum following a comeback victory over New York City FC II. Markus Anderson opened the scoring for Union II in the 11th minute with an assist from CJ Olney. Despite falling behind 3-1 after three first-half goals by their opponents, Nick Pariano narrowed the gap just before halftime with a penalty kick. Eddy Davis III equalized in the second half with his 13th goal of the season. A free kick from 14-year-old Cavan Sullivan set up team captain Frankie Westfield for a decisive goal in the 64th minute, sealing a historic win.

This home victory not only secured Union II's third consecutive postseason appearance but also guaranteed them a playoff match as a top-four seed for the first time in team history. Coach Marlon LeBlanc’s squad is now two points away from securing the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference and faces what appears to be a favorable schedule compared to Ohio’s Cincinnati II.

Union II will play against recently eliminated Atlanta United 2 on Sunday before facing Chicago Fire FC II on Decision Day. In contrast, Cincinnati II must play fifth-ranked NYCFC II and then host third-ranked Orlando City B.

Sunday's game will be their second encounter this season; Union II previously defeated Atlanta United 2 with a convincing 5-0 win back in April. Chris Donovan scored twice, while Eddy Davis III, CJ Olney, and Kyle Tucker each added goals during that match.

Atlanta United 2 was officially eliminated from playoff contention last week after drawing scoreless against Crown Legacy FC and losing in a penalty shootout on September 19th. They played again earlier this week, suffering a loss to Inter Miami CF II despite controlling much of the first half. Former Union Academy player Nykolas Sessock assisted Ryan Carmichael for Miami’s winning goal.