The Union had a breathtaking season in 2022, going unbeaten at home and thrilling fans with plenty of brilliant displays. However, it came to an agonizing end as they came up short against LAFC in the MLS Cup final. Despite bouncing back from 1-0 down to go score what looked like the winner in extra time, Union failed to secure the win, as LAFC scored an equalizer and grabbed a win through penalties.
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Now, it’s on the team to rebuild and come back stronger for the 2023 season, which begins on February 25. You can bet on soccer games, including the MLS, at Betway US, and it looks like another exciting season. Each year the MLS gets better, and last season was a great example of that. The MLS Cup final was perhaps one of the most thrilling finals ever played in club football, and while it ended in heartache for the Union, they can still be proud of their efforts.
Top Games for Union Fans in 2023
This looks to be an unmissable season for Philadelphia Union fans and anyone who wants to get into the MLS. The league is stronger than ever, and Union are always improving both in performances and results. These are some of the top upcoming games that you definitely don’t want to miss.
Philadelphia vs Columbus Crew
The season opener, you can catch this game on Saturday, February 25. Columbus Crew have major Colombian attacking talents in Lucas Zelarayan and Cucho Hernandez, who are two of the most exciting players to watch in the league. In addition, they’re under the management of new head coach Wilfried Nancy, who was one of the main candidates for Coach of the Year last season.
Both Columbus Crew and Philadelphia Union have aspirations to reach the top of the conference, so this is a huge game and could dictate the course of the season. There will be a lot of energy and atmosphere in the stands too, with fans returning after a break, meaning it’s sure to be a great one to watch.
Philadelphia vs LAFC
This one hardly needs an explanation. The Union will have their chance for revenge come September 23. Although it’s a long wait, revenge is often a dish best-served cold, and both teams will be fully up for this encounter.
This time, Philly will have the home team advantage, and with such a late-season fixture, a lot could be riding on the outcome. Whether you’re able to get tickets or not, this will be an unmissable game for all Union fans.
How Philadelphia Union Have Improved
Philadelphia Union had a great season, going unbeaten at home, but they fell at the final hurdle. As a coach, there’s not a lot you can do about those kinds of situations, as anything can happen in a final. Still, Jim Curtin will be looking for ways to improve the team, both tactically and in terms of personnel.
Last season, defense was the Union’s greatest strength, with Jack Elliot and Jakob Glesnes proving to be rocks that could stop almost any threat. Meanwhile, players like Kai Wagner have attracted attention from Premier League teams. It’s hard to find faults in the current defense, but it’s clear that this success can still be built on.
Meanwhile, the Union have also tied down Daniel Gazdag to a new contract, making the midfielder a designated player. This is one of the most important parts of running a successful team, holding onto talented players and ensuring that they don’t leave. With Gazdag in form, the Union are a much better side, and he’s come a long way since he first joined.
