The 2020 MLS season is finally upon us! As you get ready for the season, see how the PSN Union team sees the MLS campaign shaking out. Also, there may or may not be a way for you to make your predictions as well!
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
2020 Season Predictions
Our PSN Union team go through each match and predict the outcomes! Where will the Union end up? Will they make the playoffs? Will they disappoint? Find out what we think below, and learn more about how you can make your predictions too!
Matchday 1
Tim Lovenguth – Draw
The 2020 season will be underway, and the Union will be roaring to go. So will FC Dallas. I see this game being very open and ending in a 1-1 draw.
Matt McClain – Win
Union opens the 2020 campaign with a surprising win on the road against former winger Fafa Picault and FC Dallas with a late game-winning goal.
Jeff Green – Draw
Since the beginning of the 2016 season, FC Dallas has lost only 6 times at home during the regular season. I think the Union having the better squad will even things out and result in a tie.
El Parcero Philly – Win
Union opens the season against former club favorite Fafa Picault and FC Dallas. Although both teams will be looking to knock the winter rust, I see our Blue and Gold coming out with a 2-1 win.
Liam Jenkins – Draw
It might be the MLS, but there’s always a bad taste whenever Philly and Dallas play. FC Dallas does have a strong home-field advantage, but the Union has more than enough talent to keep things close. I’m predicting a 1-1 draw to start the season.
Matchday 2
Tim Lovenguth – Loss
Following a draw on the road to Dallas, the Union head to LAFC. While LAFC should still be in the midst of the CONCACAF champions league, I think they will find a way to hand Philly their first loss of the year. It will be a hard-fought battle that ends 2-1 LAFC.
Matt McClain – Loss
Too tough of a test for match #2. A hard-fought loss out west seems right.
Jeff Green – Draw
Although the Union will be traveling a bunch to start the season, they will have an extra day built in here and play late on Sunday. They’ll be well-rested and hyped to compete with the best. Another draw here.
El Parcero Philly – Loss
Starting off the season with back to back West clubs on the road is not easy, especially the fact that the second match is against the powerful LAFC. It’s going to be difficult to contain this lethal LAFC attack led by Carlos Vela, Which is why I see them losing 3-2
Liam Jenkins – Loss
LAFC is a powerhouse up-front and it’s going to be a handful if Wagner is still sidelined, and a true test for the young defense. The Union may be able to sneak a point here, but I think LAFC see this one out in a 3-2 win.
Matchday 3
Tim Lovenguth – Win
After two weeks on the road to start the 2020 season, the Union will head home for the first time. Philly welcome San Jose to Chester, and find their winning ways. Przybylko and Santos both find the back of the net and the Union keeps a clean sheet for the first time in 2020, as they win 2-0.
Matt McClain – Win
The Union finds a way to win their home opener at the newly titled Subaru Park. A clean-sheet W starts what hopes to be another stellar home record.
Jeff Green – Win
The Earthquakes are an average MLS club but really bad on the road. Add in the cross-country trip and the Union earns their first win of 2020.
El Parcero Philly – Draw
The Home Opener!!! This should be an exciting afternoon, hopefully, the weather won’t be too cold. San Jose seems to bring a lot of faces back to this overachieving squad last season, we will see how much improvement this Matias led squad will be. I see the Union getting a draw.
Liam Jenkins – Win
Home openers are always exciting and the Earthquakes don’t exactly look to be challenging for postseason success this year. The Union takes care of business in their first game of the SOOB era.
Matchday 4
Tim Lovenguth – Win
An early-season matchup against DC United brings with the importance of points on the line against an eastern conference opponent. Both teams look poised to make noise in 2020, but I see the Union winning again at home, 2-1.
Matt McClain – Draw
No W here. Just a tough early-season clash with DC ending in a draw.
Jeff Green – Draw
The Union won their last two match-ups against DC by a combined score of 8-2, dominating them in every facet of the game. I just have a feeling they won’t be forgetting this and will make things difficult for the boys in blue. Another draw.
El Parcero Philly – Draw
The second home match of the season will feature a little local rivalry, as Philly hosts DC. Last season Philly swept DC with a combined score of 8-2. All though I’m not much of a believer in DC this season, we will learn something about both squads in this early eastern conference showdown, I see the Union drawing to DC 2-2.
Liam Jenkins – Win
DC shouldn’t be overlooked and although the Union ran riot last season, this is going to be a really good ‘grading scale’ game. But in front of the Sons of Ben, I think they can pick up where they left off and add another win. 2-0.
Matchday 5
Tim Lovenguth – Loss
A trip out to Portland early in the year presents a difficult challenge. The Union will be up for it, but they routinely struggle at Providence Park, I see the Union losing this one 1-0.
Matt McClain – Draw
A W at Portland is always a tall order. Even for the best clubs. But Philly avoids a loss for the third straight match and escape with a draw, totaling 8 points through their first 4 contests.
Jeff Green – Loss
The formula here says a loss. Coming off a match against a heated Eastern rival, going cross country on a short week, and to a super tough place to play. First loss of the season.
El Parcero Philly – Loss
Back to the West coast, and this match will be in Portland against the Timbers. It will not be easy, and history is against the Union, they have not had much luck in its history playing out on the West Coast. Until the Union proves me wrong, I see much more of the same. Union Fall to Portland 4-2
Liam Jenkins – Draw
The Timbers are always a tricky opponent, especially at home. The Union has enough talent to go toe-to-toe with them, but they’ve struggled to secure a win in season’s past. All signs point to a draw early on.
Matchday 6
Tim Lovenguth – Draw
Another away trip follows this time to the newcomers Inter Miami. The Union got the best of them in the preseason, but as the regular season will be in full swing, I see both teams splitting points in a 2-2 draw.
Matt McClain – Loss
Philly’s first trip south to Inter Miami earns them an ESPN timeslot and with that – added pressure to earn a result. They falter and fail to grab points to start April.
Jeff Green – Win
The Union gets back on track in this one with a win against the expansion Inter Miami CF. With only one win in their first five coming into this one and not looking great in the standings, Curtin will have the boys ready.
El Parcero Philly – Draw
Our first taste of one of the new boys in MLS, as the Union will travel to South Florida to face off against Inter Miami. We still don’t know what kind of team Miami will have this season, It looks solid on paper but we need to see what they have to offer. I see the Union getting a draw 1-1.
Liam Jenkins – Win
It’s hard to really predict how this one’s going to go. Teething problems ‘should’ be over by this point for Inter Miami, and it is on the road. However, the Union’s tightly-knit group can cause an upset here. 2-0 Union.
Matchday 7
Tim Lovenguth – Win
The Union returns home to take on a Montreal squad that looks to be barely pieced together by head coach Thierry Henry. Philly should take care of business at home; I see them winning 3-0.
Matt McClain – Win
Thierry Henry and MTL fall victim to the Union in Chester. Philly continues their good form at home with a clean sheet.
Jeff Green – Draw
No matter how good or bad the Impact is, they seem to always give the Union trouble. This one will be no different and they will have to grind out another draw.
El Parcero Philly – Win
We get to see the return of Thiery Henry to MLS as this season he is the manager of the Montreal Impact. The Impact is one of those teams with a lot of question marks and we really don’t know what to expect from them. I see the Union getting the W here, 3-1.
Liam Jenkins – Win
Thierry Henry’s coaching Montreal, but will it really make an impact? The Union is at home and will be riding high after the Miami win, 1-0 Union.
Matchday 8
Tim Lovenguth – Draw
The first quick turnaround comes as Philly welcomes LA Galaxy four days later. I think LA will bring a formidable test and the result is a 1-1 draw.
Matt McClain – Loss
The first home loss of 2020 comes courtesy of visiting LA Galaxy. The Union falls victim to the high-powered Galaxy offense early and can’t clawback.
Jeff Green – Win
For the most part, the Union has competed well against LA Galaxy clubs that at times might have even doubled them in talent. The Union will take it to them and earn their third win of 2020.
El Parcero Philly – Win
Expect a sold-out crowd for this match as the Philadelphia Union will host Chicarito Hernandez and the LA Galaxy. High expectations for GBS in his second season as Galaxy manager, many believe this team improved by essentially replacing Chicarito for Zlatan. Despite the hype and firepower, I believe this will be one the statement wins for Philly, Union win 3-2, Comeback fashion!
Liam Jenkins – Draw
The Galaxy may be better without Zlatan, but do they really have enough firepower in his place? Probably not. The Union should be able to secure the bag, but there’s always going to be a trap game and feel like this is a letdown spot. 2-2 draw.
Matchday 9
Tim Lovenguth – Win
Four days later the Union takes on NYCFC at home. This being the end of a three-game-in-eight-day stretch will be difficult, but I think the Union is able to grind out an impressive win 2-1.
Matt McClain – Draw
The roller-coaster, one week, 3-match homestand ends with a draw against NYCFC. A late-goal from Santos (who else?) gets the tie and a point.
Jeff Green – Draw
Coming off the mid-week victory against the Galaxy, I see the Union going up early in this one, only to surrender a late heartbreaker. Draw.
El Parcero Philly – Draw
Oh boy here we go, this is a match Union nation will have marked in their calendars! first chance at redemption against NYCFC. This season NYCFC seems to be as strong if not stronger despite losing their manager Dome Torrent. Luckily we’ll be at home, it will be difficult for sure, I see the Union walking out with a 1-1 draw.
Liam Jenkins – Loss
And here…we…go. A short week and a home game against NYCFC. It’s a tall order and I think NYCFC is going to get the better of Philly here. 1-0.
Matchday 10
Tim Lovenguth – Loss
To end the month of April the Union travel to Columbus. The Crew has put together a strong-looking squad, and Philly has not fared well when they go to the historic Mapfre stadium. I see the Union losing this one 2-0.
Matt McClain – Draw
April ends with back-to-back draws. A boring but meaningful point comes after a scrappy away match at CLB.
Jeff Green – Loss
There’s nothing more dank and dismal in MLS as a trip to play the Crew. Just like Montreal, Columbus is usually trouble for the Union regardless of who’s out there. Union suffers their second loss of the season.
El Parcero Philly – Draw
Columbus this season are my dark horse I expect them to be much improved in Caleb Porter’s second season in charge. They have improved this offseason in my opinion and hopefully won’t have to deal with too many injuries and international call ups. I got the Union getting another draw 2-2.
Liam Jenkins – Win
The Columbus Crew should be in the MLS basement and allow the Union an opportunity to climb back up after a loss to NYCFC. 1-0.
Where we stand after 10 games:
Matchday 11
Tim Lovenguth – Win
After losing to one team from Ohio, the Union returns home to face a team they have yet to lose to. They’ll get back to their winning ways against FC Cincy with a 2-0 win.
Matt McClain – Win
The classic ‘trap’ game. But the Union escape with a W and head into a major matchup vs ATL with a modest 3-game unbeaten streak.
Jeff Green – Draw
The Union will already have Atlanta on their minds and will throw in a stinker against an improved, albeit inferior FC Cincinnati squad.
El Parcero Philly – Win
Cincy this season is one of those teams that we really don’t know what we’re going to get with them. You have to like the way the creativity in the midfield with De Jong and Medunjanin, but defense is still a concern for Cincy. I got the Union taking care of business 3-1.
Liam Jenkins – Win
It’s…..Cincinnati. 2-0.
Matchday 12
Tim Lovenguth – Draw
The Union gets its first crack at Atlanta United since they lost to them in the 2019 playoffs. While the Union will score first, Josef Martinez will find the equalizer late on, as this will end in a 1-1 draw.
Matt McClain – Loss
A match many fans will heavily anticipate will end in heartbreak. An opportunity to earn a 4-match unbeaten streak and revenge against ATL ends with a loss.
Jeff Green – Win
Sweet revenge will be on the Union’s mind and they will show Atlanta they are just as good at home as they are.
El Parcero Philly – Draw
The match we all have marked on the calendar, we all know how our season ended, and the thing is… we played them hard in the three matches we saw them. They still have a very lethal attack, however, I see the Union getting a draw, 2-2.
Liam Jenkins – Loss
This will be a red-ring game, but Atlanta is just too powerful but the Union may be able to finally salvage a point here and prove that they’re one step closer to getting one over. It’s on their turf. 1-0 in a nailbiter.
Matchday 13
Tim Lovenguth – Win
Philadelphia will travel to Nashville for the first time ever. They’ll see familiar faces on the Nashville side, and get a good road win by the score of 3-1.
Matt McClain – Draw
A road draw against Nashville in their first match together is next for the Union. A W is expected against what is assumed to be a lesser squad, but a draw is all Philly will get.
Jeff Green – Win
Riding the momentum only a few days later, the Union stays on point and take care of the expansion Nashville SC.
El Parcero Philly – Win
The Union will get there first taste of Nashville SC in May, this would be a fun away match for the Union! Nashville is a question mark as well, what kind of a team will Nashville be? I got the Union winning 4-2.
Liam Jenkins – Win
This will be a fun game but the Union should be able to ride the momentum from that huge win into 3 more points.
Matchday 14
Tim Lovenguth – Draw
SKC got their big-money striker this offseason. They’ll come to Chester and Pulido will score, bit so will Sergio Santos. It’ll end in a 1-1 draw.
Matt McClain – Win
Another home match, another positive result. SKC always proves to be a major handful whenever they visit Chester, but Philly will be eager to earn points after a slow start to the month of May.
Jeff Green – Draw
No Peter Vermes coached team will be near the bottom of the league in goals surrendered two years in a row. SKC will be improved and force the boys in blue to a draw.
El Parcero Philly – Win
This is a match I will be looking forward to, as I’m interested in how DP Alan Pulido will fair in the MLS. It was exciting to watch in Liga MX, we’ll see how he fairs. I cand see the Union squeaking out a win here 2-1.
Liam Jenkins – Draw
The Union may be held to a draw after playing a game just three days before this home affair. SKC will play them hard and should be able to steal a point. 1-1.
Matchday 15
Tim Lovenguth – Win
On Memorial Day weekend, Philly goes west to Colorado. They won’t be on vacation during this match, as they’ll take the game to Trusty and Rosenberry and win the match 3-0.
Matt McClain – Draw
The Union’s first clash with Colorado and Auston Trusty will end in yet another road draw. Both teams have a lot to prove in 2020. Expect a tightly contested match from the opening whistle.
Jeff Green – Loss
Despite missing the playoffs yet again, the Rapids were a respectable 9-6-2 at home and will hand our boys another road loss.
El Parcero Philly – Win
We will see former Union favorites, Auston Trusty and Kegan Rosenberry for Colorado, but what to make of Colorado? did they honestly improve? I don’t think so. I got the Union rolling, 3-2 for their fourth win in a row!
Liam Jenkins – Win
It’s the heartbreak game with Kegan Rosenberry and Trusty hosting the Union, but the Union should be able to get back to winning ways. 1-0.
Matchday 16
Tim Lovenguth – Loss
Columbus Crew has played spoiler for the Union in the past, and they will do so twice in 2020. They’ll beat the Union at the Soob by the score of 2-1.
Matt McClain – Win
Similar to SKC, Columbus routinely hampers Philly in their own building. But this year, the Union will find ways to beat both clubs in Chester. An emphatic home W caps off an up and down May.
Jeff Green – Draw
The always pesky Columbus Crew comes to town and although the Union performs better than last time, they only come away with one point.
El Parcero Philly – Win
Can the Union go five in a row unbeaten?!! I think so!!! Although I’m high on Columbus this season, I truly believe in the Union’s home field advantage.
Liam Jenkins – Win
The Crew again? Easy dub boys. 2-0.
Matchday 17
Tim Lovenguth – Loss
Following a tough home loss, Philly goes to Red Bull. New York will be looking for revenge after the Union’s playoff win last season. They will hand the Union a second consecutive 2-1 loss.
Matt McClain – Draw
Just like last year, Jim Curtin will figure out a way to earn a point at Red Bulls. It’s never easy. Few teams find ways to do it. But Philly will send a message to the rest of the conference with a draw away to start June.
Jeff Green – Loss
Finishing up what will be their poorest stretch of the season, the Union falls to the Red Bulls and doubt starts to creep in.
El Parcero Philly – Loss
Firat match up against our most hated club. I believe that this could possibly be a trap match for the Union, especially having them on a five-match unbeaten streak. Although I still believe this will be a down season for the Red Bull. Union fall 2-1.
Liam Jenkins – Win
With three in a row on the horizon and the New York Red Bulls standing in the way, expect this rivalry game to be a thriller. Union pulls out a 2-1 win.
Matchday 18
Tim Lovenguth – Win
Philly will be looking to get back to their winning ways against a powerful Real Salt Lake squad. Kacper Pryzblkyo gets a double with both goals assisted by Jamiro Monteiro as the Union wins 2-0.
Matt McClain – Draw
A home draw after the impressive road result at NYRB will let some fans down against RSL but the Union will avoid defeat yet again.
Jeff Green – Win
After Curtin gives the boys a reality check, they come out firing against RSL and win easily by multiple goals.
El Parcero Philly – Win
Last season RSL gave us a thumping in Rio Tinto. This season however the match is in Chester. RSL still has a solid squad, however, I think the Union gets their payback. Union win 3-2.
Liam Jenkins – Draw
Real Salt Lake should never be overlooked and are capable of putting up troublesome performances. They stunt the Union and hold them to a draw.
Matchday 19
Tim Lovenguth – Loss
Going down to Atlanta will be hard for Philly at a time where both will need points to solidify themselves near the top of the East. Atlanta edges out a win off of a Pity Martinez goal to secure a 1-0 win.
Matt McClain – Loss
After losing at home to ATL last month, Philly will travel south in hopes of returning home with a positive result. Unfortunately, ATL proves too tough and Philly ruins their unbeaten streak.
Jeff Green – Loss
Trading for a win earlier in the season at home, the Union fail to capitalize on an early goal and lose some ground in the standings.
El Parcero Philly – Loss
June gives us a trip to the A, although I saw us drawing to Atlanta earlier in the season, I don’t think we get lucky again dow in the Benz. I got Atlanta United winning 4-3.
Liam Jenkins – Loss
Atlanta’s fancy new stadium plays host to the Union here, but it’s hard to imagine Philly overcoming ATL on the road. 2-0 loss.
Matchday 20
Tim Lovenguth – Win
Beating Vancouver at home is necessary should the Union want to stay in the top four of the East. They take care of business and close out the month of June by playing their last western conference team in the regular season and win 4-1!
Matt McClain – Win
A bounce-back home win against VAN helps propel the Union into July on a high note. This match should be marked by fans as a very important clash, considering they’ll be returning from ATL on the heels of a potential loss.
Jeff Green – Win
The Union is the sandwich game on a three-match road-trip for traveling Vancouver, the other two being against Western Conference foes. The Whitecaps will no doubt have to rest some regulars and this should be a multiple goal victory for the Union.
El Parcero Philly – Win
Vancouver coming into town after that tough Atlanta match, I think this will be perfect for the Union. Marcos Dos Silvia and Vancouver still are in rebuild mode. I got the Union winning 5-2.
Liam Jenkins – Win
The union has a week to rebound from the ATL loss and it’s a perfect bounceback game. 2-1 against a wobbly Whitecaps team.
Where we stand after 20 games:
Matchday 21
Tim Lovenguth – Win
It’s the Fourth of July! But, the Union will be in Montreal to celebrate a win while we all celebrate the United State’s independence. Philly wins this one 1-0.
Matt McClain – Draw
The summer months kick off up north in MTL. Fourth of July in Canada is odd, yet the Union find a result and avoid defeat against what could be a darkhorse team with a brand new legend at the helm in Henry.
Jeff Green – Win
Another match against another Canadian side, this time in Canada in Montreal. The Union will find a way to get the win in honor of independence day.
El Parcero Philly – Draw
July fourth and your Union are in Canada! last season we all remember the beat down that they took in Montreal last season. This season however I believe the Union will survive, but with a draw, 2-2.
Liam Jenkins – Draw
July 4th fireworks? Not in America, at least. The Union are in Canada and will come out of it with a draw against Henry’s impact. 0-0.
Matchday 22
Tim Lovenguth – Win
Four days later the Union head to Soldier Field for the first time to face Chicago Fire. They’ll another road match in short succession thanks to a goal from Jamiro Monteiro. This will be a 1-0 win!
Matt McClain – Loss
A mid-week affair at Chicago ends in disappointing fashion for Philly. They fail to get a point. The back-to-back road match set up causes problems and a road loss is the result.
Jeff Green – Win
After winning on the road on the weekend, the Union has to turnaround quickly in Chicago. Even then, they’ll find a way to grind out a win.
El Parcero Philly – Draw
Traveling to Chicago mid-week may also be a potential trap match for the Union. However, I believe they will get another draw 1-1.
Liam Jenkins – Draw
A mid-week trip to Chicago has trap game written all over it, with this being the second game in a row on the road. But I think the Union can easily get a point here at a minimum. 1-1.
Matchday 23
Tim Lovenguth – Loss
Philly plays their last three-game-in-eight-day stretch as they face Toronto FC. The two road wins will take a lot out of this team and they’ll fall to a Pozuelo goal and lose 1-0.
Matt McClain – Win
The busy start to July ends at home with a visit from Toronto. The Union finds a way to beat the defending Eastern Conference champs though, and Subaru Park (hopefully near sell-out) explodes with joy – and potentially with fireworks.
Jeff Green – Draw
The Union ends their Saturday, Wednesday, Saturday stretch playing TFC at home. A tough draw from a tired Union squad will be the result.
El Parcero Philly – Win
Another anticipated match as the Union met against the Eastern Conference champs. We’ll see how healthy they will become in July. At home, I believe the Union take care of business, 4-3.
Liam Jenkins – Draw
The third draw in a row against a team who always find themselves in the playoff hunt. The defending conference champs cause problems, and the Union ekes out a third consecutive draw.
Matchday 24
Tim Lovenguth – Draw
After losing to Toronto, the Union will welcome New England to the Soob. It’ll be the game before their inaugural match in the Leagues Cup competition, and I see the Union struggling to find a winner. They’ll draw this one 0-0.
Matt McClain – Loss
NER fight hard and earn a road result, stunning the Union at home following the win v Toronto.
Jeff Green – Loss
Getting seven points from three matches so close together will take its toll on the Union. They’ll drop points against a strong Revs side.
El Parcero Philly – Win
The first match against New England, One has to believe that New England will be improved this season. Union win 2-1.
Liam Jenkins – Win
The Revs travel to the Soob with the Union in need of a win. It’s four games unbeaten, but their first win in a while. 1-0.
Matchday 25
Tim Lovenguth – Win
The Union head to Orlando and will find a way to grind out an impressive win. A Pryzblyko goal is a difference in a 1-0 win!
Matt McClain – Win
A road W against Orlando City rights the ship for Philly as July ends. Fresh off the League’s Cup match mid-week, the sunshine of Florida provides extra energy and the Union gets a W using their depth.
Jeff Green – Loss
A mid-summer slide may be in the making as the Union goes to Orlando. They struggle with the heat and their opponent and lose a second consecutive game.
El Parcero Philly – Win
We take our second trip to Florida as we face off against Orlando City. This match won’t be easy I believe, but again don’t trust the defense of Orlando. I got the union winning 3-2 in comeback fashion.
Liam Jenkins – Win
Orlando has always been a little disappointing, and the Union will make the most of their second win to pull out an impressive 3-2 win.
Matchday 26
Tim Lovenguth – Draw
The newcomers Inter Miami come to Chester PA for the first time and give the Union a fight. A 2-2 draw is the result.
Matt McClain – Draw
David Beckham’s club visits Chester and escapes with a draw. Expect another close to a sell-out crowd for this one.
Jeff Green – Win
There’s nothing like an expansion team coming to your house for the first time to right a small losing streak. The atmosphere at Subaru park will push the Union to a win over Inter Miami.
El Parcero Philly – Draw
I believe Inter at this point of the season will have found their grove and will compete in the east! In a tough match, I see the Union getting a draw here!
Liam Jenkins – Draw
The unbeaten run continues, but it won’t be a win. Inter Miami will be in full-stride by this point, but the Union can hold them to a draw. 2-2.
Matchday 27
Tim Lovenguth – Loss
The Union makes its first trip to Citi Field to face City. Another baseball stadium won’t do them any favors as the Union will lose this match 2-0.
Matt McClain – Win
Perhaps my boldest prediction yet – the Union wins an away match against NYCFC for the first time ever. That is all.
Jeff Green – Draw
The Union head to the big apple to take on NYCFC. A tough opponent will make the Union up for this one, but they’ll have to settle for a draw.
El Parcero Philly – Loss
Another match we will be looking forward to as well, We all know the struggles we have playing in baseball stadiums, and with the NYCFC still looking like a strong team, I don’t see the Union getting a win here. They fall 2-1.
Liam Jenkins – Draw
The Union goes on the road against another playoff contender, but it’s another roadblock. A 0-0 draw.
Matchday 28
Tim Lovenguth – Draw
Philadelphia was able to get an impressive win in Toronto in 2019. This year, they’ll only do enough to get a 1-1 draw.
Matt McClain – Loss
Toronto responds to their road loss against the Union with a home W of their own. This stretch of the season is tough for Philly and a trip north doesn’t help.
Jeff Green – Loss
Going to Toronto is always a game the Union seems to dread, they’ll go up north and struggle again as they lose this one.
El Parcero Philly – Loss
Second road match on a three-game road trip I believe the Union will be missing “The Soob.” Toronto could either be really good or really bad in my opinion at this point. I do see the Union falling here, 1-0 TFC win.
Liam Jenkins – Loss
Frustration builds and this is the worst team to play on the road in the middle of a poor run of form. Toronto takes all three points here despite a spirited effort. 2-0.
Matchday 29
Tim Lovenguth – Loss
The newly constructed DC United will be solidified without Rooney and Acosta. They’ll beat the Union 1-0 in a hard-fought match.
Matt McClain – Draw
The third straight road match ends with a point and a hard-fought draw for Philly against a revamped DC squad.
Jeff Green – Draw
DC United will look to avenge their home match against the Union from last season. Both teams split the points in a physical match.
El Parcero Philly – Draw
To round out the road trip, The Union face off against DC. Last Regular Season in DC, the Union Destroyed DC winning 5-1, in one of the most memorable wins, in a memorable season! I see the Union ending this dreadful road trip with a 3-3 draw.
Liam Jenkins – Win
In desperate need of a win, the Union has some time to rest up and prepare for a very tough fixture, but it’s one that Curtin can coach through and guide his boys to a narrow 1-0 win.
Matchday 30
Tim Lovenguth – Win
To close out the summer the Union faces Orlando City at home. Philly will be looking for a win as they will be on a late-summer winless streak. They find another win against Orlando thanks to a late Santos goal in a 2-1 win.
Matt McClain – Win
The Union makes it a clean sweep against Orlando in 2020. They finish August on a high-note before enjoying a nice break in their MLS schedule.
Jeff Green – Win
The Union ends their summer matches against Orlando City, they’ll finish strong and win this one.
El Parcero Philly – Win
Back home at Subaru Park, we have our Union facing off against Orlando City yet again. I believe the Union will bounce back here getting a 2-1 victory!
Liam Jenkins – Win
And now, riding high, they host Orlando at home in what should be a relatively easy win. 2-1.
Where we stand after 30 games:
Matchday 31
Tim Lovenguth – Draw
The home stretch for the Union starts with two straight away matches, the first is in New England. Philly will fight, but they’ll only muster up a 1-1 draw.
Matt McClain – Draw
After some time to rest and rejuvenate, the Union begins the final four-match slate of the year at NE. They’ll avoid defeat but fail to earn an important road win.
Jeff Green – Win
An important home stretch starts in New England. The Union wins this one to continue their winning ways.
El Parcero Philly – Loss
Back on the road, the Union head to Foxborough to face off against the Revs. I believe the Revs will be one of those squads battling for playoff positioning. In a tight battle, I have the Union falling 4-3.
Liam Jenkins – Win
On the road again after a long rest and the Union know how important this stretch of games is. It’ll be tricky, but this should be another narrow win. 2-1.
Matchday 32
Tim Lovenguth – Win
The next week they head to Cincinnati for their final away match. They’ll put on a show and light them up winning 3-0.
Matt McClain – Win
The final road contest of 2020 ends with a clean sheet victory at Cincy. At this point in the season, it could easily be a ‘must-win’ of sorts and they get it done.
Jeff Green – Draw
The Union’s last away match of the season comes at Cincinnati. They’ll have the chance to win but will come away with a draw.
El Parcero Philly – Win
Back to back road matches, this time we see our Union in Cincinnati, Ohio to face off against FC Cincinnati again! I feel as if this is where Cincy can start falling off, I got the Union winning 2-0.
Liam Jenkins – Win
Cincy’s candle may have burned out by this stage, allowing the Union to rest a few players and still secure the win. 1-0.
Matchday 33
Tim Lovenguth – Win
The Red Bulls come back to Chester after losing there in the 2019 Playoffs. The Union will win again, and who else decides this game but Ilsinho? Philly wins 2-0.
Matt McClain – Win
Red Bulls at home, in late September. It will be a frenzy at Subaru Park and the Union will please home fans with a second-consecutive W.
Jeff Green – Win
With only two matches left, a home match against Red Bulls is a welcome sight. This one will feel like a playoff game and the Union will win as they did against New York last October.
El Parcero Philly – Win
Back home and this is the match we all wait for every season! Red Bull and Union, we remember the last meeting in the now Subaru Park. I believe there is no way the Union loses her, Union win 3-0!
Liam Jenkins – Draw
This is where things get tricky. We know this game is unpredictable and NYRB may just want to play spoiler. It’s got draw written all over it. 2-2.
Matchday 34
Tim Lovenguth – Win
To end the season the Union welcomes Chicago to the Soob. In a dress rehearsal for the playoffs, the Union put out the fire 2-0!
Matt McClain – Win
The final home match is against Chicago, and just like the week before, the Union earns an impressive W to end the season on a five-match unbeaten streak.
Jeff Green – Win
The Union ends the season against Chicago Fire. The Union will likely be playing for a greater seed in the playoffs and will make their way into the playoffs on a high note going unbeaten in their last six regular-season matches.
El Parcero Philly – Win
The last match of the season, we host the Chicago Fire, at this point we should know our playoff fate. I believe the Union still fins a way to win, 1-0.
Liam Jenkins – Draw
The Union ends the season in a draw against Chicago, knowing that the playoffs are secure. 1-1.
Where we stand after the homestretch:
Playoffs?
Tim Lovenguth –
YES!
Matt McClain –
YES!
Jeff Green –
YES!
El Parcero Philly –
YES!
Liam Jenkins –
YES!
MLS Playoffs Conference Quarterfinals
Tim Lovenguth – Win
The Union opens the playoffs at home against a team they failed to even get a result against in the regular season. That would be the Columbus Crew. The game will be physical, but in the end, Santos and Pryzbylko score and the Union win another playoff game by the score of 2-1!
Matt McClain – Win
2020 should yield another home playoff contest for Curtin and the Union. They’ll find a way to win against a fiery DC United side thanks to enormous home support behind them.
Jeff Green – Win
The Union will face Montreal in the first round of the playoffs. The match will be at home, and they will be ready to win their second-ever playoff game defeating the Impact.
El Parcero Philly – Win
In the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs, I see the Union getting drawn with the New England Revolution. Boston and Philly always give us good playoff games, no matter the sport! In a wild match, I see the Union moving on 4-3.
Liam Jenkins – Win
I think the Union can build on last year’s performance as they face a foe they got the best of this year in DC. They’ll do so again in a 2-0 win.
MLS Playoffs Conference Semifinal
Tim Lovenguth – Win
In the eastern conference semifinals, the Union is at home again, as New England Revolution shock NYCFC in the quarterfinals. The Union takes the game to New England who won’t be able to cope with the Soob rocking. The Union win 2-0 and make it to the eastern conference final!
Matt McClain – Win
After a gutsy home playoff win, the Union must travel south to dreaded Mercedes Benz Stadium to face ATL. After losing twice this season to the high-powered ATL club, Philly somehow someway find a way to win and continue their season. Late game magic from Santos propels the Union forward.
Jeff Green – Win
The Union makes it back to the conference semifinals and face NYCFC. The game will be at home, and the Union shocks the world and its fans by winning and making it to the conference final.
El Parcero Philly – Win
In the Semi’s I see the Union meeting up with NYCFC. It’s vital that the Union get as high of a seed as possible, this matchup is an example. If the Union were to go up to New York, I wouldn’t like their chance, But if it’s in Philly I do. I got the Union moving on to their first-ever Eastern Conference Finals!
Liam Jenkins – Win
In the semi’s, it’s Toronto. But in a one-game sample size, anything can happen. I’m expecting unparalleled limbs with another late winner. 1-0.
MLS Playoffs Conference Final
Tim Lovenguth – Loss
The Union goes on the road to Atlanta United with a spot in MLS Cup on the line. Philly will be in the match, and it will go the distance into extra time to decide a winner. But who else, but Josef Martinez scores, and sends the Union home once again in the playoffs.
Matt McClain – Loss
The Union reaches its lofty pre-season goal of making a trip to the Eastern Conference finals, but a road match against NYCFC proves much too difficult. The season ends in disappointment away from home after a thriller in ATL.
Jeff Green – Loss
A familiar foe awaits the Union in the game that wil ldetermine the eastern representative at MLS Cup. Philadelphia head down to Atlanta, don’t exercise that demon. The Union falls one game short of the MLS Cup.
El Parcero Philly – Loss
Eastern Conference Finals and there is no doubt in my mind that Atlanta United will be the other team in this final. We all know how daunting the Benz is for Soccer, we also all remember how our season ended last season… In the end, I believe the Union will show up hungry and motivated for the win, but in a Penalty shoot-out, I got Atlanta moving again to the MLS Cup Final.
Liam Jenkins – Loss
The conference final will see them face Atlanta and despite an absolute nailbiter and their best performance against them yet, I can see them falling just short of the mark in a 4-3 loss.
MLS Cup 2020
Tim Lovenguth –
Not in 2020.
Matt McClain –
Unfortunately, not.
Jeff Green –
Not this year.
El Parcero Philly –
Union doesn’t make that jump yet.
Liam Jenkins –
Maybe next year!
Now it’s your turn!
As many of you know already, you can make your picks to see how they stack up against ours! The person with the most correct will win some awesome Philly Sports Network swag! You have until Saturday to fill out your picks, don’t miss out!
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Tim Lovenguth | Jeff Green | Matt McClain
El Parcero Philly | Liam Jenkins | Matt Nissenfeld
Peace out Union fans!
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
