Philadelphia Union: Previewing upcoming matchup vs the Chicago Fire
After an impressive road tie against New York Red Bulls, the Philadelphia Union return home to face off against the Chicago Fire.
The Ins and Outs
Philadelphia Union (4-3-5) VS Chicago Fire (4-2-6)
When: Wednesday at 7:30 PM Eastern – Talen Energy Stadium (Chester, PA)
Where to Watch: PHL17
PRO Referees: Head- Fotis Bazakos, AR1- Kyle Atkins, AR2 – Danny Thornberry, 4th – Rubiel Vaquez, VAR- TBA
Coaches: Jim Curtin (Philadelphia Union) – Veljko Paunovic (Chicago Fire)
Win at Home
The Philadelphia Union are set for a strong test at home Wednesday night as the Chicago Fire come to town. The Union are coming off of a strong 0-0 road tie against New York Red Bulls. The two sides sit seventh and eight in the Eastern Conference Standings. A win in this game and the Union could tie New England on points for the final playoff spot. With three games without a loss, the Union will be looking to ride their momentum at home.
The Lineups
There does not seem to be a lot of changes coming for the midweek clash. The side has no injuries to their starters and no red card issues. The biggest possible move could be in the attacking trio. While Marcus Epps has impressed in recent weeks, David Accam could get a start against his former club. Often matches against former clubs are breakout nights for players. Fafa Picault seems likely to continue one wing, with Epps fitness a question opposite. CJ Sapong could also be up for a benching after a drab start in New York, and sub-par performances throughout the young season.
The rest of the squad seems likely to remain unchanged. Mark McKenzie has been impressive since coming in for the injured Jack Elliott. Elliott has since returned and only made the starting lineup once. He also made MLS team of the week and has shown impressive chemistry with Auston Trusty. That remains the most obvious position for a change.
Keys to the Game
The biggest key for the Union will be limiting the Fire’s multiple attacking options. With an MLS Golden Boot winner in Nemanja Nikolic on their roster, the Fire can produce goals. They also have a strong midfield and defense. Bastian Schweinsteiger is a man to look out for. Finally, Alan Gordon is an option to start or come off the bench, and he is always a threat in the air. Limiting corners could go a long way in the team’s success.
Next: Philadelphia Union: Previewing upcoming matchup vs New York Red Bulls
Players to Watch: Auston Trusty and Mark McKenzie
It was no small feat that two 19-year-old players kept Bradley Wright-Phillips scoreless a few days ago. Now the two have another task ahead of them. Golden Boot winner Nemanja Nikolic, and the threat of Alan Gordon. The pair will have a long night ahead of them as they attempt to keep another attacking group scoreless.