Union-C Cincinnati clash could decide early East pride as top two square off
Quinn Sullivan is set to play a central role as the Philadelphia Union head to FC Cincinnati for a showdown that could reshape the race for first place in the Eastern Conference. The biggest stars for MLS fans might be Messi, Müller and Son elsewhere, but this weekend’s high-stakes matchup centers on two teams jockeying for position with just six regular-season games remaining.
The Union currently sit atop the standings with 54 points from 28 games, two points ahead of Cincinnati, who are right behind them with 52 after the teams met last weekend. A draw would leave the Union with a two-point cushion, while a win for either side would not only swing the margin but also impact the first tiebreaker: total wins. MLS tiebreaks go first to wins, then goal difference; Philadelphia hold a commanding 22-7 edge on that front.
There remains a path to the postseason for both clubs this weekend: a victory by either team paired with a New York Red Bulls loss or draw could clinch a playoff berth. If the Union and Cincinnati settle for a draw, Philadelphia could still clinch if New York loses later Saturday.
Messi, Müller and Son won’t be in action for this tilt, but the two teams still boast plenty to watch. Cincinnati’s attack is loaded with options. Tai Baribo has already tallied 16 goals for the Union’s visitors, and Brenner, back from a loan spell at Udinese, could line up for his first game back in Cincinnati after an $11 million move two years ago. Brenner joins a front line that also features 13-goal man Kévin Denkey and MVP candidate Evander, who has 16 goals and eight assists in 26 regular-season games.
Inside the Union camp, Sullivan is keen to stress the significance of any late-season clash, especially with two teams separated by a handful of points at the top. “It’s always big when one team is ahead and another one is chasing,” he said. “We’re in the final stretch with several games left, and while this one is big, every match matters. But first place versus second place in this window makes this a huge test and a big result for either team.”
Philadelphia will be mindful of the history, too. Their last meeting with Cincinnati came in their home opener on March 1, a 4-1 victory in which Tai Baribo enjoyed a hat trick and Dániel Gazdag supplied two assists. Cincinnati were deep in the Concacaf Champions Cup preparation at the time, and the landscape has changed considerably since.
Sullivan also touched on the broader growth around the Union, including the spotlight that his younger brother, Cavan, has drawn as he steps toward potential stardom in the public eye. The Union have shifted from the era of heavy marketing on a big-city stage to a more prominent profile, and Sullivan believes it benefits everyone when the league attracts more attention and higher-profile players. “It’s good for the game in America when more eyes are on us,” he said. “More eyes, more viewers, more respect.”
Turning to the bigger picture, Sullivan believes this Union side is exceeding the expectations set for them this season. “We’re not chasing the exact expectations we had for ourselves, but we’re exceeding the expectations people have for us,” he said. “We have belief that we can win a Supporters’ Shield and compete for an MLS Cup.”
Looking ahead, the schedule remains packed. The Open Cup semifinal is on the horizon, and after the national team break, the Union will visit Müller’s Whitecaps on Sept. 13 before heading to Nashville for the Cup clash. Miami’s three games in hand complicate the title race, but Sullivan’s optimism is clear: if the Union can stay consistent, they’ll be ready to capitalize when opportunities arise.
What to watch for in the match:
– The Union’s ability to control the tempo and protect their goal differential edge (22-7) as they chase the early season advantage.
– Brenner’s return for Cincinnati and how he links with Denkey and Evander to test a Union defense that has shown resilience.
– Sullivan’s leadership in a high-pressure environment and whether his experience helps Philadelphia maintain their lead in the reduced regular-season window.
– The broader implications for playoff seeding and the possibility of clinching a postseason berth should results elsewhere align favorably.
Summary: A pivotal Eastern Conference duel sees the Union travel to Cincinnati aiming to maintain their slim advantage and extend their lead in the chase for the Supporters’ Shield. While star names from other MLS markets won’t be in attendance, the quality on display—headlined by Sullivan and a dangerous Cincinnati frontline—promises a dramatic, consequence-filled night with postseason implications on the line.
If you’re watching, Apple TV+ will carry the match as part of MLS Season Pass, and the outcome could shape the rest of the East’s order as the regular season heads toward its final stretch. The Union appear equipped to capitalize on this moment, with a clear sense of purpose and belief in their ability to win trophies this year.