Match Preview: Philadelphia Union vs. Columbus Crew
Who: Philadelphia Union (2nd place, 22 points, 7-1-3) vs. Columbus Crew (1st place, 24 points, 7-3-1)
What: 2025 MLS Regular Season Match
Where: Subaru Park, Chester, PA
When: Saturday, May 10, 7:30 PM ET
Watch: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+, Listen on 97.5 FM
🔥 Battle at the Top: Union vs. Crew Showdown
Subaru Park is set to host a thrilling clash as the Philadelphia Union welcome league leaders Columbus Crew in what promises to be an intense battle for dominance in the Eastern Conference. Both teams have showcased impressive form this season, and with just two points separating them, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The Union, fresh off their U.S. Open Cup triumph midweek, are looking to capitalize on home advantage to leapfrog Columbus at the summit of the table. However, fatigue could be a concern after their grueling penalty shootout win over Indy Eleven. Bradley Carnell’s men will need to summon their best to match the relentless pace of Wilfried Nancy’s Crew.
📌 Scouting Report: Columbus Crew
Columbus Crew has been a model of consistency in the 2025 campaign, losing just once in MLS play—a rare stumble against Inter Miami during their “home” game in Cleveland. Under the leadership of Wilfried Nancy, the Crew have solidified their reputation as one of the league’s most well-oiled machines.
A major storyline heading into this match is the return of Daniel Gazdag to Philadelphia. The Union’s all-time leading goalscorer was traded to Columbus on April 11, and while he has yet to find the net for his new club, his impact on the field remains undeniable. Gazdag’s familiarity with the Union’s defense could be a decisive factor.
Complementing Gazdag is a star-studded lineup that includes Diego Rossi, Darlington Nagbe, and the ever-dangerous Jacen Russell-Rowe. The Union’s backline will have its hands full trying to contain this high-octane offense.
Player Availability:
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Out: Rudy Camacho (Thigh), Andres Herrera (Thigh)
📌 Scouting Report: Philadelphia Union
Philadelphia heads into this showdown on the back of two hard-fought victories. A narrow win in Montreal last weekend was followed by a nerve-wracking penalty shootout in the U.S. Open Cup against Indy Eleven. Carnell rotated his squad midweek, but several key players still logged significant minutes as the match extended into extra time.
The biggest question mark for the Union lies in their defensive setup. Nathan Harriel and Olwethu Makhanya have both impressed alongside Jakob Glesnes in recent weeks, making the decision for Saturday’s lineup a tough one. While Harriel brings consistency, Makhanya’s potential could be vital for long-term growth.
Philadelphia’s goalkeeping situation remains uncertain. Andre Blake, a cornerstone of the Union’s defense, is listed as questionable with a knee injury. If Blake is unable to start, Andrew Rick will be ready to step in after his heroic performance in the Open Cup, where his penalty save secured the team’s advancement.
Player Availability:
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Out: Ian Glavinovich (Knee), Neil Pierre (Knee)
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Questionable: Andre Blake (Knee), Olivier Mbaizo (Knee)
🔍 Key Matchups to Watch:
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Daniel Gazdag vs. Jakob Glesnes – Former teammates now on opposite sides. Can Glesnes shut down his old captain?
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Diego Rossi vs. Nathan Harriel – Speed versus resilience. Rossi’s pace will test Harriel’s defensive awareness.
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Midfield Battle: Darlington Nagbe vs. José Martínez – Physicality and vision meet in what could be the defining duel of the game.
⚖️ Prediction: Philadelphia Union 1 – 1 Columbus Crew
Given the Union’s fatigue from their midweek fixture and Columbus’s solid form, a hard-fought draw seems likely. Both teams have the firepower to score, but defensive resilience might dictate the outcome. A 1-1 result would keep the race at the top of the Eastern Conference razor-thin, setting up an exhilarating second half of the season.
Will Gazdag get his first goal for the Crew against his former club? Can the Union continue their unbeaten streak at home? All eyes will be on Subaru Park this Saturday night
