Preview: FC Cincinnati vs. Philadelphia Union: lineups, team news, and predictions

Philadelphia Union and FC Cincinnati both opened the 2025 MLS season with victories, setting the stage for an intriguing early-season clash at Subaru Park.

The Union impressed in a 4-2 win over Orlando City, while Cincinnati edged past the New York Red Bulls with a hard-fought 1-0 victory.

Union Aiming to Build Momentum Under New Leadership

After missing the playoffs in 2024 for the first time since 2017, Philadelphia turned to head coach Bradley Carnell to restore the club’s competitive edge. The early signs suggest progress, as the Union ended their preseason slump with a 1-0 win over CF Montréal before exploding for four goals in their MLS opener. Tai Baribo starred with a brace, giving hope that Philadelphia’s attacking woes are behind them.

However, the Union will have to overcome a difficult history against Cincinnati. They’ve won just one of their last six meetings against the Orange and Blue, including a 2-1 home loss in their most recent Subaru Park encounter.

Cincinnati Carrying Over Strong Form from Preseason

Cincinnati enjoyed an undefeated preseason, including a convincing 4-1 win over Philadelphia, before cruising past Honduran side Motagua in the Concacaf Champions Cup. Their 1-0 win over the Red Bulls in the MLS opener showcased their defensive solidity, an area head coach Pat Noonan will want to continue improving after last season’s early playoff exit.

With a deeper squad and strong momentum, Cincinnati look poised to make another statement on the road.

Team News & Predicted Lineups

Philadelphia Union: Markus Anderson (ankle) and Isaiah LeFlore (leg) are out, while Nathan Harriel remains a doubt.

Predicted XI: Blake; Wagner, Glesnes, Makhanya, Westfield; Jacques, Lukic; Gazdag, Sullivan, Baribo; Uhre

FC Cincinnati: Luca Orellano, Sergio Santos, Gerardo Valenzuela, and Nick Hagglund are all sidelined. Alec Kann (hip) and Matt Miazga (knee) will also miss the match.

Predicted XI: Celentano; Engel, Flores, Robinson, Hadebe, Yedlin; Bucha, Nwobodo, Evander; Denkey, Kubo

Prediction: Philadelphia Union 1-2 FC Cincinnati

Both teams boast attacking threats, but Cincinnati’s superior head-to-head record and current form give them the advantage. Expect a competitive contest, but Cincy’s defensive discipline and clinical finishing could see them edge a narrow road victory.

In other news, “FC Cincinnati Star Stuns MLS—Shuts Down Champs and Lands Huge Honor!”