International duties leave the Union depleted for Saturday’s match-up. Philadelphia Union (2-0-2 6pts 6th in Eastern Conference) vs. Orlando City SC (1-2-1 5pts 9th in Eastern Conference). The Lions had a tough loss last week, 2-1, to Charlotte FC in a game where they dominated possession and outshot their opponent 19 to 8. Orlando will be without seven total players, including three starters this weekend, Uruguayan forward Facundo Torres, Peruvian goalkeeper Pedro Gallesse, and USA U-20 call-up RB Michael Halliday.
Philadelphia vs. Orlando
Last Saturday was a hard pill to swallow for Union fans. After the bizarre double VAR on the first goal by Montreal, Julian Carranza got a red card. The catastrophic collapse saw Montreal score twice in the final 8 minutes of the game. This handed Philadelphia their 2nd loss of the season. The boys in blue swept the season series against Orlando last year. The last win came back in September with a 5-1 thumping at Home.
This week, Philly will face a tougher test without the services of 7 players D. Gazdag, J. Martinez, Q. Sullivan, J. McGlynn, D. Lowe, B. Craig, and R. Odada, will all be off representing their countries. That will leave head coach Jim Curtin looking to fill some holes along the starting lineup with also trying to figure out what the rotation off the bench will be. The Union looks to get back on track at Subaru Park this weekend in front of their home crowd.
Player to Watch
Joaquin Torres, The 25-year-old Argentinian, will be plugged into the starting lineup this week with Daniel Gazdag on international duty and Julian Carranza suspended. Joaquin has been Jim Curtins key player off the bench, with 1 goal and one assist on three appearances this season. Look for Torres to be a key part of the offense facilitating through the midfield and putting pressure on Orlando’s back line.
Prediction
With both teams shorthanded and in a game where both teams’ depth will be challenged, I expect the home-field advantage for the Union to be the difference and give them a slight edge Saturday night. Final Score Philadelphia 1, Orlando 0. International duties leave the Union depleted for Saturday’s match-up.
My name is Diego Bianchi born and raised in Philadelphia. I’m a sports analyst, writer, and show host covering Philadelphia sports for Edge of Philly Sports. I also am a credentialed media member covering the Philadelphia Union for EOP. My passion for sports started since forever ago. At least, it feels like that. Thanks to my amazing family. I love doing this every day. You can catch me every Monday night on the Sully Squad at 6 PM on Edge of Philly Sports.
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