The records set in 2022 may remain for many years to come, but Philadelphia Union had their eyes on something more. Tonight, the dream of lifting the MLS Cup in 2022 disappeared, and the Union must now assess their roster and prepare for 2023.
It is likely there will always be a place in Union history for the current squad. Daniel Gazdag produced the best single offensive season of anyone that has ever worn the snake on their chest.
Kai Wagner set a new standard for attacking defenders in MLS. Andre Blake became the first goalkeeper in MLS history to be nominated for the MVP award twice and the first goalkeeper to win Goalkeeper of the Year three times. And the Carranza-Uhre duo breathed fire like no pair of Philly strikers ever has before.
But the season is long; one game. And over the course of 120 minutes, the Union battled until the end but fell to LAFC at Banc of California Stadium in penalties.
Philly still showed out for their Homegrowns and under-the-radar superstars: Over 12,000 people claimed tickets for a free watch party at Subaru Park, and fans packed the pitch to cheer on their favorite squad.
The Union proved to be every bit as good as a team filled with international superstars, and the fans at LA and back in Philly let their team know they appreciated the endless work from a team that never, ever gave up.
Thank you to all of the fans that made this the best season in Union history. The local coach — a truly rare thing in sports — and the bevy of young talent on the roster will be even hungrier next season, and the vets will come back with a chip on their shoulder after proving they can compete with anyone in the league.
This was a special regular season, and next year the Union will aim for even greater heights.
