Philadelphia Union Clinch Sixth Straight Playoff Spot – Report
Written by Patrick Echatah
Wednesday night, Philadelphia Union took a point away from Charlotte FC by overcoming a two-goal deficit in the second half to draw 2-2.
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The hosts led 2-0 after the second half thanks to goals from Justin Meram and Karol Swiderski. Before Daniel Gazdag successfully converted a penalty kick in the seventh minute of stoppage time. The draw guaranteed the Union a spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs for a sixth straight season when combined with other results.
With Jack Elliott out due to suspension, Jim Curtin drastically rotated his team from the one that drew 2-2 with FC Cincinnati over the weekend, moving five of the team’s 11 players while returning to the traditional 4-4-2 formation.
Bank of America Stadium’s pitch saw a quick start to the match, with Charlotte taking the initiative and the Union looking to strike a counter. A clearance effort from Chris Donovan’s head on an early Philly corner appeared to be headed in for a goal, but the post stepped in to rescue the home team.
Nothing else significant occurred in the clumsy first half. Each team squandered its few opportunities. Ten minutes into the second half, Charlotte took the lead. The hosts were set free by a weak touch from Baribo, who moved the ball into the Union box.
In stoppage time, Charlotte gave the Union the draw. Unexpectedly, in the box, Brecht Dejaegere made a hasty, uncomfortable challenge on Olivier Mbaizo, earning Daniel Gazdag a harsh penalty. Kahlina was sent the wrong way by Gazdag, who converted his 11th penalty of the year.
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Meanwhile…
John Herdman has been officially named the new coach of MLS based club Toronto FC. Starting on October 1st, the 48-year-old will take over as Toronto FC’s next head coach in the MLS.
Herdman became the coach of Canada in January 2018 before leading the North American giants to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, their first appearance in 36 years.
“I’m keen to start this new opportunity with Toronto FC,” he said. “It’s the right time for a new challenge.” Toronto fired former head coach Bob Bradley in June and are currently towards the bottom of the MLS standings.
(orlandosc)
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