Philadelphia Union II secured a 4-3 win against New York City FC II at Subaru Park on Sunday, ending the regular season with a narrow victory. The match was closely contested, with both teams exchanging goals throughout the game.
Markus Anderson scored first for Union II in the 27th minute, assisted by Giovanny Sequera. Seymour Reid of NYCFC II equalized in the 33rd minute and then helped his team take the lead five minutes later. Before halftime, Neil Pierre brought Union II back level with a goal assisted by CJ Olney.
In the second half, Stas Korzeniowski put Union II ahead again in the 61st minute after another assist from Olney. Reid tied it for NYCFC II in the 79th minute. In stoppage time, Neil Pierre scored his second goal to secure the win for Union II.
Union II will now prepare to defend their conference title as they enter the postseason. They are notable for being the only Eastern Conference club to reach the playoffs every year since MLS NEXT Pro began. Their opening playoff opponent will be determined through the league’s Pick-Your-Opponent format.
The upcoming 2025 MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs will feature 15 single elimination matches over four consecutive weekends starting October 17 and concluding with the MLS NEXT Pro Cup on November 7.
After less than a day since Philadelphia Union’s first team won the Supporters’ Shield at home, Head Coach Ryan Richter fielded a starting lineup that included Andrew Rick as goalkeeper; defenders Giovanny Sequera, Rafael Uzcátegui, Neil Pierre, and Jordan Griffin; midfielders Cavan Sullivan, Nick Pariano, CJ Olney, and Markus Anderson; and forwards Eddy Davis III and Stas Korzeniowski.
