Philadelphia Union Reach Playoffs on Record 15-Game Unbeaten Streak
The Philadelphia Union concluded their regular season with a decisive 4-1 victory over Toronto FC, securing sixth place in the Eastern Conference playoffs. The win caps a remarkable turnaround for the club, which rallied from last place in the league to an unprecedented 15-game unbeaten streak under interim head coach Ryan Richter.
The Philadelphia Union closed the regular season on Saturday with a 4-1 victory over Toronto FC, securing sixth place in the Eastern Conference playoff field. The result capped a franchise-record 15-game unbeaten streak for the club, a dramatic turnaround from their position at the bottom of the league standings earlier this year.
The team’s resurgence followed a turbulent period that saw head coach Bradley Carnell dismissed in May. Ryan Richter assumed control of the squad and worked to stabilize the group. Richter and captain Alejandro Bedoya met over coffee in South Philadelphia, a conversation that helped establish a new tone for the team’s approach.
Supporters played a significant role in the turnaround. During the World Cup break, fan Tito Bryson created a sign predicting a second-half comeback. Bryson noted that the only loss at the stadium since the sign was made occurred on the day it was left at home. Fellow fans Charlie Blake and Adam Donnelly expressed that the city needed such a run and appreciated having a team to rally around as they look toward the finals.
Midfielder Cavan Sullivan highlighted the loyalty of the fan base, known as the Sons of Ben. "You know, sometimes a fan base gives up, and the Sons of Ben did not," Sullivan told FOX 29. Richter described the current mood as exciting for fans and fun for the players to experience. The Union play their home matches in Chester, Pennsylvania.
The Union’s first-round opponent is the New England Revolution, who finished third in the Eastern Conference with 58 points. Boston.com reported that the Revolution lost 1-0 to Orlando City SC on Saturday, with Orlando midfielder Braian Ojeda scoring the only goal. New England had already clinched a playoff spot and rotated its lineup, substituting playmaker Carles Gil off in the second half.
The Revolution’s point total represents a significant increase from their previous seasons, with 31 points in 2024 and 36 in 2025. The first-round matchup is a best-of-three series scheduled between Nov. 20 and Dec. 2. The league stated the full schedule would be released soon. MLS playoffs begin on Nov. 19, according to Yahoo Sports.
O.Zawadzki--GL