Philadelphia Union return to MLS action on Wednesday at Talen Energy Stadium when they host Chicago Fire (2-6-5, 11 points) at 7 p.m. The two teams have been remarkably even in 16 career MLS matchups (Union are 5-6-5), but the Fire have dominated the series as of late, with the Union’s last win coming on May 18, 2013 – a span of seven games. That, of course, does not include the Union’s win during the 2015 U.S. Open Cup semifinals.
What you need to know
Somewhat similar to the Union this past offseason, the Chicago Fire had a bit of an executive overhaul, spearheaded by the hiring of long-time MLS executive Nelson Rodriguez in September. Rodriguez hired former Union player Veljko Paunovic as the club’s head coach in November and the team begun to re-shape its roster after missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.
But with the immense roster overhaul, the Fire have struggled out of the gate, picking up just 11 points in 13 matches. It has been better as of late, though, as the Fire were just minutes away from extending their unbeaten streak to three games on Saturday at Colorado. However, Marco Pappa scored a dagger in the 89th minute to lead the Rapids to a 2-1 win.
On the injury front, Matt Polster suffered a concussion during the Fire’s win in the U.S. Open Cup last Wednesday. No update as of Monday, but it seems unlikely the midfielder would travel.
Players to Watch
David Accam, forward (6 GP, 5 GS, 3g, 2a): Offensively, it pretty much starts and ends with the Ghanaian, who has really been excellent this season when healthy. He’s only started five games this year, but he’s either scored or assisted in four of them. Coincidence or not, though, the Fire have actually struggled with him in the lineup, going 0-4-2 in his six total games.
Jonathan Campbell, defender (13 GP, 12 GS, 1g, 0a): A growing theme of similarities between the two clubs, but another obvious one is the overhaul of the Fire’s backline. No, the Union aren’t the only team with rookies playing big minutes, as Campbell (the No. 12 pick) has helped anchor a defense that has actually allowed the third fewest goals (16) in MLS. The No. 4 pick, Brandon Vincent, has also started seven games.
Sean Johnson, goalkeeper (4 GP, 4 GS, 8 saves, 4 ga): Still just 27 years old, Johnson finally returned to lineup in mid-May after a nagging wrist injury this preseason. Johnson also missed the end of 2015 with a torn labrum. But he’s back to his regular spot and has consistently proven to be one of the better keepers in MLS.
Possible Lineup
Goalkeeper: Sean Johnson
Defenders: Michael Harrington, Jonathan Campbell, Johan Kappelhof, Rodrigo Ramos
Midfielders: Khaly Thiem and Razvan Cocis (holding), Kennedy Igboananike, Arturo Alvarez, Nick LaBrocca (attacking).
Forward: David Accam.
What have you made of Chicago's re-build this season? Leave your comment below.
