Philadelphia Union vs. Inter Miami – The Philly Soccer Page
Photo: Marjorie Elzey
Who: Philadelphia Union vs. Inter Miami
What: MLS Regular Season, Matchday 17
Where: Subaru Park, Chester, PA
When: Saturday, June 15, 7:30 PM EST
Watch: Apple TV – MLS Season Pass
Whistle: TBD
The Philadelphia Union return home to take on Inter Miami Saturday night as the Union look to climb the standings, while the visitors will look to hold onto first in the Eastern Conference.
Scouting Report: Inter Miami
Last 5 matches (most recent first) D – L – W – W – D
This match has been circled for many fans since the schedule came out, in hopes of seeing Lionel Messi’s only game in Chester this season. Unfortunately for those expecting Messi, he and teammate Luis Suraez are currently away from the team for Copa America preparations. Miami will still have former Barcelona men Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets in the lineup though. After Messi and Suarez, Robert Taylor and Leo Campana have been effective in attack. Taylor has notched 3 goals on the year while Campana has 4 to his name. Running the midifield will be the aforementioned Busquets with longtime MLS veteran Julian Gressel likely to appear. In defense is Tomas Aviles and Ryan Sailor in the center and Alba occupying the left. Stellar goalkeeper Drake Callender will be in Miami’s goal.
International Duty: Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez.
Scouting Report: Philadelphia Union
Last 5 matches (most recent first) D – D – D – W – L
It’s been a dramatic start to the year for Philadelphia, to say the least. Star goalkeeper Andre Blake has been battling injuries while also voicing his opinion on the lack of management ambition. Shortly after he agreed to a new contract with the club and is now out with Jamaica for Copa America.
Philadelphia is still siting squarely in the middle of the Eastern Conference in eight place at 4-8-4, though they have bot suffered a defeat in 4 straight matches. Star striker Julian Carranza has been dealing with a slight injury, but has also been linked to a recent move to Feyenoord in the Netherlands. An appearance from him seems unlikely in this match. Daniel Gazdag will also be out of the lineup due to EURO 2024 with Hungary.
International Duty: Andre Blake, Daniel Gazdag
Matchup to Watch: Team Depth
Both teams are missing key pieces from their starting lineups. Whoever can replace production and not have to dive deep into their bench should come out on top.
Player to Watch: Leon Flach
Since returning to full fitness and more regularly in the lineup, Flach has helped to stop some of the counter attacks plauging Philadelphia. If he can help generate more offense it could be a helpful spark for the Union attack.
Prediction: Philadelphia Union 1-1 Inter Miami
A game without superstars in the heat of summer will wear down just about everyone. A pretty sloppy game finds a goal from both sides and the points shared.
Lines:
Philadelphia: -110
Miami: +250
Draw: +300
