UPDATE: In a thrilling playoff showdown, New York City FC triumphed over the Philadelphia Union with a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a decisive goal from Maxi Moralez on July 15, 2023, in Chester. This victory propels NYCFC into the Eastern Conference Final against Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, who defeated Cincinnati 4-0 in the other semifinal.
The stakes were high as these two rivals faced off for the fourth time in the MLS Cup playoffs, with NYCFC once again proving to be the Union’s nemesis. Moralez’s goal, scored in the 28th minute, marked the fourth consecutive playoff match where he found the net against Philadelphia. This win signifies NYCFC’s third advancement over the Union in postseason encounters.
The Union, who finished the regular season as the top seed and Supporters’ Shield winners, faced a shocking early exit from the playoffs. They had numerous opportunities, tallying 18 shots—five on goal—but could not break through NYCFC’s defense. This marks only the second time this season that the Union have been shut out at home.
“It’s frustrating to dominate possession and chances but come away empty-handed,” said Union head coach Jim Curtin.
NYCFC’s Moralez was pivotal throughout the match, and his goal came as a result of excellent teamwork. Agustin Ojeda initiated the play down the right flank, passing to Nicolas Fernandez, who then set up Moralez for the crucial strike past Union goalkeeper Andre Blake.
Despite the Union’s efforts, including a close call from Bruno Damiani and a strong performance by backup goalkeeper Andrew Rick, the team could not find the equalizer. The Union had chances in both halves but were met with a resolute NYCFC defense.
As the match progressed, the urgency intensified for the Union, who aimed to avoid another playoff heartbreak against their rivals. The emotional weight of past encounters loomed large, especially considering their defeat to NYCFC in the 2021 Eastern Conference Final, where they were severely impacted by COVID-19.
Next up for NYCFC is the highly anticipated clash with Inter Miami in the Eastern Conference Final, where they will seek to continue their playoff success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if they can capitalize on this momentum.
This latest chapter in the NYCFC-Union rivalry adds another layer to an already dramatic playoff narrative and leaves Union supporters longing for a different outcome in future encounters.
