Philadelphia Union vs Orlando City SC Preview

The Union take the field tonight against Orlando City SC in their final game of Group A. Even though they have already advanced to the quarterfinals of the tournament this game is still very important. Orlando City SC is also undefeated in Group A. Union head coach Jim Curtin believes that there is a “ton on the table” tonight. The winner of group A goes on the face a third-place team in the round of 16. This game also has a great impact on the regular-season standings.
“The first three games of the competition being worth nine points in our league, there’s certainly an element of pride that goes into winning three in a row. There’s an element of Orlando’s a competitor in the Eastern Conference, so there’s still a ton on the table for this match. We want to take all three points for sure. It’s unique because we’re already through, but at the same time this game has a real meaning and real points are on the line.”
Orlando City SC Scouting Report
This game will be the toughest so far for the Union. Orlando has a great attack and the Union defense needs to be on top of their game. Any mistake from the backline could be costly. Here’s what Jim Curtin had to say regarding Orlando’s attack.
“They’re confident right now,” Curtin said. “They’re flying. The one thing when you watch the tape, the last two games here in the bubble and obviously we’ve looked at games from prior, they really have a commitment to getting numbers in the box. Right now, when the ball is going to wide positions, you’ll see three to four guys come flying into the screen, which is something that obviously helps scoring goals. Mueller is sharp as anybody, he’s finishing off all his chances. Nani has a world-class pedigree. The one thing that comes true is when he gets on the ball, he’s the guy that’s going to set up assists, he’s the guy that’s going to make goals happen. We have to do a good job on both of those guys.”
One player to watch out for is Chris Mueller who has scored three of the team’s five goals.
Union Players to watch
Andre Blake: I mean do I really even have to say it anymore? Andre Blake is one of, if not the best goalie in the MLS. Every week he comes up big for the Union making big saves. Expect another great game from Blake who will have a strong Orlando attack coming his way.
Brendan Aaronson: The 19-year-old has played a big role in the Union’s success in the “MLS is Back Tournament”. His play in the midfield has been outstanding and he’s only getting better each game.
Prediction: 2-1 Union win
I think this game will be very competitive down to the wire, but big saves from Andre Blake will secure a win for the Union and first place in group A.
Where to Watch?
Unlike last week, this game will be broadcasted on ESPN and the ESPN App as well as TUDN.
When?
Kick-off starts at 8:00 PM est
Can’t Watch the game?
Don’t worry we have you covered. Our good buddies over at Fox Sports The Gambler announced that they are the NEW HOME for Philadelphia Union Soccer. Gotta love it. Sean Brace and the rest of the crew over there are fantastic, and even have our guy Victor Williams locked in as an Eagles Insider for the upcoming NFL season.