Philly Leader

Philadelphia Union began their 2025 Major League Soccer season with a 4-2 victory over Orlando City SC at Inter & Co Stadium. This win matched the Union's record for goals in a season opener, previously set in 2023 against Columbus Crew. The victory brought Philadelphia's opening match record to 8-4-4 and marked Orlando's first loss in a season opener since joining MLS in 2015.

The match saw Marco Pašalić score for Orlando early on, but the Union quickly responded. Tai Baribo equalized with a goal assisted by Kai Wagner, followed by Daniel Gazdag putting Philadelphia ahead with assistance from Quinn Sullivan. Mikael Uhre extended the lead shortly after capitalizing on an error by Orlando. Baribo scored again from Frankie Westfield’s cross, marking his second goal of the night. Pašalić scored once more for Orlando to close the game at 4-2.

Philadelphia will face FC Cincinnati next at Subaru Park on March 1.

Today's officials included referee Rubiel Vazquez and assistant referees Nick Uranga and Jose Da Silva. Weather conditions were cloudy with temperatures around 65 degrees.

Notably, this match was Bradley Carnell’s first official win as head coach of the Union. Andre Blake celebrated his 300th appearance for Philadelphia across all competitions. Olwethu Makhanya, Frankie Westfield, and Jovan Lukic made their first starts for the team, while Ian Glavinovich also debuted.

Baribo’s two goals brought him past ten career MLS goals and marked his sixth multi-goal game in league play.