The Philadelphia Union faced off against Cruz Azul on a thrilling Sunday night, marking the conclusion of the group stage in the 2024 Leagues Cup tournament. With the Union already securing their spot in the knockout stage following Cruz Azul’s earlier penalty loss to Charlotte FC, the stakes were high for both teams. The Union aimed to maintain their position at the top of the group by either winning or drawing in regulation, while Cruz Azul needed a victory to advance further in the competition.
Despite a local fan initiative to boycott the tournament, Subaru Park saw a sold-out crowd, predominantly filled with Cruz Azul supporters. The overwhelming presence of Cruz Azul fans was so significant that some ticket holders in the River End were unable to be relocated to other areas of the stadium before the match commenced due to insufficient space.
Head coach Jim Curtin opted for a lineup similar to the one that faced Charlotte FC, with only a couple of changes: Damion Lowe and Mikeal Uhre replaced Jakob Glesnes and Sam Adeniran in the starting eleven. Additionally, Holden Trent took a spot on the bench, allowing Andrew Rick to step in.
First Half Action
The match kicked off with immediate intensity, as Alejandro Bedoya was shown a yellow card for a foul in midfield just moments after the whistle. Cruz Azul quickly made their presence felt, creating several chances early in the first half, including a shot that struck the post from outside the box in the 20th minute.
Philadelphia managed to earn a few set pieces in the final third, but despite Kai Wagner’s prowess in dead-ball situations, the Union struggled to capitalize. Instead, it appeared that the team was more focused on thwarting potential breakaway opportunities rather than seizing their own chances.
In the 29th minute, Cruz Azul almost caught the Union defense off guard with a golden opportunity, but the ball failed to find the back of the net amidst a chaotic scramble. Shortly thereafter, the Union responded with a cross aimed at Uhre, but he headed the ball wide of the goal.
As the physicality of the match intensified, both teams committed numerous fouls. Quinn Sullivan received a yellow card in the 37th minute while attempting to halt a Cruz Azul attack, with both Gazdag and Uhre down on the pitch behind the play.
Cruz Azul finally broke the deadlock in the 41st minute when Carlos Rotondi received a well-placed pass across the box and managed to slot the ball past an outstretched Andre Blake. Rotondi found himself wide open at the back post, while Sullivan and Martinez were left scrambling to recover.
Second Half Developments
No substitutions were made by either team at halftime, even with two Union players already on yellow cards. The physical nature of the game continued, and tensions escalated when Tai Baribo was brought down at the center of the field without a foul being called. Shortly after, Lowe received a yellow card for a foul just outside the box.
Referee Jorge Peregrina allowed the match to play on, leading to further physical exchanges between the two sides. As the second half progressed, both teams continued to battle fiercely for control of the game.
As the clock ticked down, the Union intensified their efforts to equalize, pushing forward with urgency. The crowd’s energy surged as Philadelphia sought to capitalize on their home advantage, but Cruz Azul’s defense held firm, thwarting several attempts.
With time running out, the Union’s persistence finally paid off in the dying minutes of the match. After a series of coordinated plays, they managed to find the back of the net, leveling the score at 1-1. The stadium erupted in cheers as the home fans celebrated the equalizer, reigniting hopes of finishing the group stage on a high note.
As the match approached its conclusion, both teams remained on edge, knowing that the outcome would determine their fates in the tournament. With the score tied, the Union aimed to secure a win, while Cruz Azul fought to regain the lead.
The final whistle blew, confirming the match ended in a 1-1 draw. While the Union secured their spot in the knockout stage, Cruz Azul’s journey in the tournament came to an end, leaving fans and players alike reflecting on the intensity and passion displayed throughout the match.
This encounter not only showcased the competitive spirit of both teams but also highlighted the vibrant soccer culture in Philadelphia, as fans rallied to support their local club despite the challenges faced during the tournament.
As the Philadelphia Union look ahead to the knockout stage, they carry with them the momentum gained from this match. The experience gained and lessons learned will be crucial as they prepare to face tougher opponents in the coming rounds of the Leagues Cup.
