Philadelphia Union vs Inter Miami – MLS 2025 Showdown at Subaru Park
Match Details
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Who: Philadelphia Union (1st, 29 pts, 9-2-3) vs Inter Miami (6th, 22 pts, 6-4-3)
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When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | Kickoff: 7:30 PM ET
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Where: Subaru Park, Chester, PA
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Watch: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+ | Listen: 97.5 FM
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Officials: Referee: Drew Fischer | VAR: Kevin Stott
The 2025 MLS season continues with a blockbuster fixture as Philadelphia Union, the current Eastern Conference leaders, host Inter Miami, the reigning Supporters’ Shield holders. This matchup is more than just three points—it’s a battle between current form and star power, with Lionel Messi’s team under pressure to rebound from a string of poor performances.
🔍 Scouting Inter Miami: A Star-Studded Side Struggling for Stability
Despite boasting big names like Messi and Suarez, Inter Miami have stumbled in recent weeks. With just one win and 14 goals conceded in their last five matches, questions are beginning to mount about the team’s direction under new head coach Javier Mascherano.
Mascherano, while a respected figure, is in his first professional club coaching role after managing Argentina’s youth squads. Recent reports suggest player dissatisfaction and tactical confusion, especially after a humbling 3-0 loss to Orlando City at home.
Former Miami player Julian Gressel, now with Minnesota United, summed it up perfectly: “They’ll be good for 30 minutes, and then we’ll get our chance.” Minnesota scored in the 32nd minute. Miami’s pattern of fading after a strong start is a growing concern.
Injuries for Miami:
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Drake Callender – Sports hernia (Out)
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David Ruiz – Hamstring (Out)
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Baltasar Rodriguez – Hamstring (Out)
📈 Philadelphia Union: Top of the Table & Full of Momentum
Fresh off a US Open Cup win and an 8-game unbeaten run, the Union have developed into one of the most adaptable and dangerous teams in the league. Manager Bradley Carnell has brought new flexibility to the squad, demonstrated by the use of four different formations in their recent win over Atlanta United.
The Union also lead MLS in assists (34), and midfielder Quinn Sullivan, fresh from his long-overdue U.S. national team call-up, is joint-leader in assists (7) alongside Miami’s Luis Suarez.
With the team’s fluid attacking shape and newfound midfield depth, the Union are equipped to handle Messi and co. They’ll rely on width from Kai Wagner and Frankie Westfield, while maintaining tight control in the center of the pitch.
Philadelphia Union Injury Report:
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Ian Glavinovich – Knee (Out)
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Neil Pierre – Knee (Out)
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Andre Blake – Knee (Questionable)
Goalkeeper Andrew Rick is expected to start again. The 19-year-old has impressed with sharp reflexes and elite distribution, which could be key for counterattacks—much like Pedro Gallese’s assist for Orlando’s opener against Miami last week.
⚔️ Key Matchup: The Sixes vs Lionel Messi
If the Union are to win, their defensive midfield pairing—likely Jovan Lukic and Danley Jean Jacques—will need to be laser-focused on Lionel Messi’s positioning. Both players have recently contributed goals and must balance disrupting Messi’s space with driving forward in possession.
Keeping the center compact will be essential. Expect the Union to switch between a 4-2-2-2 and a more flexible shape depending on Miami’s momentum.
🌟 Player to Watch: Quinn Sullivan
Sullivan enters this match full of confidence after his U.S. Men’s National Team selection. As a U22 Designated Player, he has grown into a leadership role, delivering consistently in both creation and buildup play. Watch for him to be heavily involved in the final third and possibly on the scoresheet once again.
🔮 Match Prediction: Philadelphia Union 2 – 1 Inter Miami
Given Inter Miami’s defensive frailties and lack of cohesion under Mascherano, the Union are well-positioned to secure a hard-fought victory at home. While Messi remains a threat, Philadelphia’s pressing game and tactical flexibility should give them the edge.
Score Prediction:
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Philadelphia Union 2
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Inter Miami 1
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Scorers: Baribo, Sullivan (Union); Suarez (Miami)
📌 Final Thoughts
This match could be a defining moment in the 2025 season for both clubs. For Inter Miami, it’s a test of resilience. For the Union, it’s a chance to extend their lead atop the table and send a clear message to the rest of the league.
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