Philly will be peeking ahead to the USOC final, but New England needs points to secure the best playoff spot in a tight race. It all adds up to a one-sided contest, but the Union can use this match to improve their defensive shape against a team that moves well in the final third.
In the kind of game they need to learn how to win if they want to turn into a consistent playoff contender, the Union has a real chance to steal points at home against a Houston side struggling with injuries and suspensions.
Philly needs all three points against a Columbus side that welcomes Kei Kamara back into the fold.
San Jose went undefeated in August despite not playing particularly well. They will be missing a slew of key players Saturday, including important holding midfielder Anibal Godoy.
The Revs have been terrible on the road, but they badly need to take three points on Saturday. Philly will look very different if Jim Curtin selects Vincent Nogueira over Michael Lahoud.
The Union won’t have Maurice Edu, but Vincent Nogueira will be available on Saturday. Figuring out how to fit Nogueira, Barnetta, and Maidana together is key for Jim Curtin in the buildup to the USOC final in September.
Compared to Wednesday, there is much less on the line for the Union and Fire this weekend. Philly should use the match to find out what kind of depth they have for the season’s stretch run.
Two struggling defenses face off as the Union attempt to contain Kaka while Orlando tries to figure out why its midfield has turned into a sieve.
The Union will need Zach Pfeffer to become more central to the offense if they want to challenge New York this weekend.
Much like last season, Philly needs a strong run in the second half of the season to make a playoff push. A 120 minute midweek game will test the starters’ legs on Sunday.
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