Philadelphia Union II saw their unbeaten start to the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season come to an end on March 15 after a 2-1 loss to CT United FC at Subaru Park. The match was decided by a late goal from the visitors, with Union II playing the final half hour with ten men following a red card.
The result is significant as it marks the first time this season that Union II have conceded a goal and suffered defeat. The team had previously started strong, but faced challenges against an older CT United FC lineup and adverse weather conditions. Malik Jakupovic gave Union II the lead before halftime, but Laurie Goddard equalized for CT United FC in the 57th minute. Shortly after, Oscar Benitez received his second yellow card, leaving Union II shorthanded for the remainder of the match.
Head Coach Ryan Richter made several changes to his starting lineup for this game, including giving Giovanny Sequera his first start of the season. Goalkeeper George Marks remained in net after two consecutive shutouts and made several key saves throughout the match. Despite being reduced to ten players, Union II continued to defend but ultimately conceded a decisive goal in the closing minutes when Barnabás Tanyi scored for CT United FC.
Philadelphia Union operates as a professional soccer team in Major League Soccer and provides competitive matches at Subaru Park, which features dedicated facilities on a waterfront site in Chester according to the official website. The club achieved notable success by winning the Supporters’ Shield in 2020 for best regular-season performance according to the official website. Philadelphia Union also focuses on fan involvement, youth programs, and community ties while delivering entertainment through its roster of professional players and ticketed events according to the official website.
Looking ahead, Union II will travel north next Sunday for their first away game of 2026 against Red Bull New York II at MSU Soccer Park. This matchup will be their first meeting since last year’s Eastern Conference Final.
