Philadelphia Union vs Mazatlán FC – The Philly Soccer Site
Photo courtesy of Philadelphia Union
WHO: Philadelphia Union vs Mazatlan FC
What: League Cup, quarter-finals
Where: Subaru Park, Chester, Pennsylvania
When: Saturday, August 17, 7:30 p.m. EST
Regard: Apple TV Season Pass
Pipe: To be announced
Philadelphia Union returns to Subaru Park for a Leagues Cup quarterfinal on Saturday night, looking to eliminate Mexican underdog Mazatlán FC. The winner will face Columbus Crew or New York City FC in the semifinals on August 21 before playing in the final on August 25.
Scouting Report: Mazatlán FC
After missing out on the group stage in 2023, Mazatlán made a breakthrough this time around thanks to experienced Mexican coach Victor Manuel Vucetich. Known as a coach with the “Midas touch”, Vucetich seems to have turned their prospects into gold once again.
Although the Mexican side, ranked 45th in the tournament, began their campaign with a 1-0 loss to New England Revolution, they have rediscovered their form and a 2-0 away win at Nashville SC secured them a place in the knockout stages, where they beat Cruz Azul on penalties to advance.
Injury Report: N/A
Scouting Report: Philadelphia Union
Last season, Philadelphia reached the semifinals of the Leagues Cup before losing to eventual champions Inter Miami CF. After finishing top of East Group 4, they are unbeaten in their last six games. Do they have what it takes to go all the way this year?
Match to watch: Union Front 3 vs Mazatlán FC Defense
It’s no secret that the addition of Tai Baribo to the Union’s attack has unleashed a goal-scoring machine that has been missing for much of this season. Even when he’s not finding the back of the net, Baribo plays an important role in the trio, setting up his opponents for success. Despite being all over the pitch, Baribo amazingly manages to find time to lead the race for the Leagues Cup Golden Boot with five goals.
Notable player: Ricardo Gutiérrez
Gutiérrez performed to his full potential in the penalty shootout against Cruz Azul, as only an inexperienced goalkeeper can, but how will he fare against Union’s attacking line?
Prediction: Philadelphia Union 2:0 Mazatlán FC
Union is a wave of energy, driven primarily by the fact that every touch of the ball goes in Tai Baribo’s direction. With Andre Blake in goal, there is a good chance that things will continue to go well for Union.
