Philadelphia Union's concluded its first leg of preseason with a 3-1 comeback victory against Eastern Conference rivals New York City FC.
Head Coach Jim Curtin continued to experiment with different lineup rotations as the Starting XI featured Julian Carranza and Joaquin Torres leading the front line. 2023 leading goalscorer Daniel Gazdag made his preseason debut too, flanked by homegrowns Jack McGlynn and Quinn Sullivan while Jesus Bueno locked down the base of the Union's 4-4-2 diamond.
The Boys in Blue fell behind early against the Cityzens in the first half but rallied back in the second half with Nathan Harriel scoring the equalizer off a set piece served up by Kai Wagner in the 48th minute. 15 minutes later the Boys in Blue took the lead for good with Harriel connecting with Carranza for the Argentine's second goal of the preseason. Philadelphia Union turned to a younger lineup shortly after taking the 2-1 lead with Union II's CJ Olney, Andrew Rick and Neil Pierre taking to the pitch alongside Chris Donovan, Matt Real, Sanders Ngabo and Nick Pariano. Academy defender Frankie Westfield added the insurance goal seven minutes after the lineup changes, putting home a pass from Ngabo for the final score line.
With the opening leg of the 2024 preseason now complete, Philadelphia Union is headed back to the City of Brotherly Love for a week before returning to Florida for two more friendlies.
