Minnesota United FC vs. Philadelphia Union

Allianz Field | Saint Paul, Minnesota

05.09.2023 | US Open Cup Round of 32

7:30 p.m. CT (Streaming exclusively on the B/R App and the B/R Football YouTube channel)

The U.S. Open Cup returns to Allianz Field this week for a Round of 32 matchup with Philadelphia Union. With both teams in need of a confidence boost before the league schedule gets increasingly congested, this elimination game carries even more weight than usual at a crucial point in the season. One way or another, someone will be walking out of the stadium with some USOC magic to put a new pep in their step. 

Minnesota United- 

Run of Form (All Competitions): L-L-W-D-L

It’s been rough going for the Loons in recent times. In their last five matches, their only win came against USL side Detroit City FC in the USOC, while their only MLS points came from a lackluster draw against FC Dallas. As ever, the margins have been fine indeed, with each of their league matches being decided by no more than a single goal. After a more productive offensive performance against Vancouver over the weekend, the Black and Blue should come into this one with more belief in their ability to score. If their defensive solidity returns Tuesday night, they may be closer to finally finding a working, and winning, formula. 

Philadelphia Union- 

Run of Form (All Competitions): D-W-D-L-W

Just one season ago, the Union were flying at the top of the league standings. By the end of the season, they lost the Supporters’ Shield to LAFC on a tie-breaker and fell to the same team in MLS Cup on penalties. After keeping the core of their team around and adding some talented depth pieces, many Major League Soccer fans thought this would be their year to take another step forward under Jim Curtin, but early signs suggest otherwise. Their recent form has been a mixed bag, exposing latent weaknesses while also proving that last year was no fluke. Currently sitting at seventh in the East, Philly is already 10 points off pacesetters New England. However, Dániel Gazdag is still scoring goals, Andre Blake is still among the best keepers in the league, and their defense is a tough nut to crack when healthy. On any given night, it’s a toss up if we’ll see Dr. Jim or Mr. Curtin’s side on the pitch. Who knows which version will show up on Tuesday? 

Keys to the Match: 

Changing Shape?

When Adrian Heath subbed Brent Kallman on against Vancouver in the 66th minute, fans may have been confused. Why bring on a center back when you need a goal? But that’s precisely why BK made an appearance. By switching to what was effectively a 3-5-2 formation, Heath gave his team the chance to attack in greater numbers with even more width. The back-three of Boxy, BK, and Tapias was magnificent to watch, giving DJ Taylor and Kemar Lawrence license to tear up and down the sidelines while they chased the game. Though the breakthrough never came, this intriguing new look will give future opponents something to think about when they make their lineups.

Down, Not Out

While this season has been a step down from last year for Philadelphia, this squad has some serious talent. Kai Wagner may be the best fullback in the league, and Mikael Uhre has taken his game to the next level this season. Concacaf Champions League games may explain some of the early season slump, as fixture congestion can create chaos in any locker room. With one less competition to worry about after LAFC knocked them out of yet another title hunt, Philadelphia will be able to refocus on the trophies that remain in their path. A less busy schedule means more rest; their quality is bound to start shining through more consistently. Approaching this Union side like any other mid-table team would be a huge mistake. This is one of the most talented squads in the nation; they should be treated as such. 

The Magic of the Cup

When it comes to most U.S. Open Cup matches, you can throw conventional wisdom out the window. This competition hardly cares about form, with desire and heart taking precedence over whatever is happening in league play at any given time. Whoever wants it more on Tuesday night is likely going to emerge victorious. Athletes only get so many chances to write their names in the history books; for soccer players in the USA, this is the richest history you can possibly be a part of. When you care about the Cup, the Cup cares right back at you.