Philadelphia Union 2 – 1 Charlotte FC: Anderson’s Late Heroics Seal Dramatic Victory
June 15, 2025 — Chester, PA
Philadelphia Union extended their unbeaten run to 12 games across all competitions with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Charlotte FC, thanks to a 98th-minute winner from MLS debutant Markus Anderson. Despite missing key players due to injuries and international duty, the Union returned from the international break firing on all cylinders and remain at the summit of the Eastern Conference standings.
First Half: Union Strike Before the Break
With head coach Jim Curtin forced to rotate his squad, the Union saw several lineup changes — including starts for teenager Andrew Rick in goal and veterans Alejandro Bedoya and Ben Bender in midfield. Despite the shuffles, Philadelphia controlled possession early and created multiple chances.
In the 21st minute, Bruno Damiani came close with a powerful strike that soared just over the bar following a goalmouth scramble. As the first half neared its conclusion, Philly found the breakthrough. After a cleared cross landed perfectly for Jesús Bueno, the Venezuelan midfielder hit a sensational spinning volley into the top corner to put the Union ahead in stoppage time — his first goal of the 2025 campaign.
Second Half: Zaha Levels, Anderson Steals the Spotlight
Charlotte FC began the second half with renewed intensity. Wilfried Zaha, the ex-Crystal Palace forward, showed his Premier League class in the 78th minute by equalizing for Charlotte. Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty whipped in a dangerous cross that found Zaha unmarked at the far post, and he calmly slotted it past young keeper Rick to make it 1-1.
But the Union weren’t done. Deep into stoppage time — the 98th minute — a Jeremy Rafanello cross caused chaos in Charlotte’s box. Frankie Westfield rose to meet the partial clearance, nodding it into the path of substitute Markus Anderson. The 20-year-old striker made no mistake, burying the chance to net his first-ever MLS goal and secure all three points for the Union in dramatic fashion.
Talking Points
✅ Unbeaten Momentum Continues
The international break couldn’t slow Philadelphia’s momentum. With this win, the Union have now gone 12 matches unbeaten and remain top of the table.
✅ Squad Depth Makes the Difference
Despite missing Mikael Uhre, Tai Baribo (injured), and several regulars including Andre Blake and Nathan Harriel (international duty), Curtin’s reshuffled lineup delivered when it mattered most.
✅ Markus Anderson Emerges
One week after scoring in a friendly against Atlas FC, Anderson stepped up again, scoring a memorable debut MLS goal. With Baribo and Uhre sidelined, the Union may have found a timely new attacking option.
Match Summary
🏟️ Venue: Subaru Park, Chester, PA
📅 Date: Saturday, June 15, 2025
⚽ Final Score: Philadelphia Union 2 – 1 Charlotte FC
Scoring Summary
-
PHI 1-0 (45+2′) – Jesús Bueno (Unassisted)
-
CLT 1-1 (78′) – Wilfried Zaha (Assist: Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty)
-
PHI 2-1 (90+8′) – Markus Anderson (Assist: Frankie Westfield)
Starting Lineups
Philadelphia Union (4-3-3):
Andrew Rick; Olivier Mbaizo, Olwethu Makhanya, Jakob Glesnes, Kai Wagner; Alejandro Bedoya, Jesús Bueno (Anderson 57’), Ben Bender (Rafanello 77’); Indiana Vassilev, Bruno Damiani (Cavan Sullivan 92’), Jovan Lukic
Charlotte FC (4-2-3-1):
Spencer Bingham; Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, Adilson Malanda, Privett, Doumbia; Ashley Westwood, Biel; Kerwin Vargas (Abada 68’), Brandt Bronico (Williamson 68’), Toklamati (Smalls 89’); Wilfried Zaha
What’s Next?
Philadelphia Union will look to maintain their form as they prepare for another tough fixture next week. With key players still unavailable, all eyes will be on whether rising stars like Markus Anderson can continue delivering under pressure.
