Red Bulls vs Philadelphia Union: 3 things we learned

By Harvey Cruz | May 27, 2018

HARRISON, NJ - MAY 26: Philadelphia Union midfielder Alejandro Bedoya (11) controls the ball during the first half of the Major League Soccer Game between the New York Red Bulls and the Philadelphia Union on May 26, 2018, at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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HARRISON, NJ – MAY 26: New York Red Bulls forward Bradley Wright-Phillips (99) battles Philadelphia Union defender Mark McKenzie (4) during the first half of the Major League Soccer Game between the New York Red Bulls and the Philadelphia Union on May 26, 2018, at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

1. Both teams face a difficult stretch before Open Cup

Let’s look forward. The Red Bulls will have the chance to get back in the win column against the New England Revolution in their first meeting of this season.

New York has fared well on the road this season, but will miss right-back Michael Murillo as he’s going to the World Cup with Panama. Last season, the Red Bulls won both matchups against the Revolution both home and away. But it’ll be the first time they encounter them with Brad Friedel as first-year coach.

Only four points separate the two teams, with New York in 4th place (22 points) and New England in 6th (18 points). After that, the Red Bulls go back home to face rivals New York City in the 4th round of the U.S. Open Cup. Not an easy stretch by any means.

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Philadelphia won’t have it any easier. They go home to face the Chicago Fire, who were impressive defeating Orlando City 2-1 on the road. Only one point separates the two teams, Union in 7th position (15 points), Chicago in 8th (14 points).

After that, they travel to face the scariest team in MLS in the form of Atlanta United. With Philadelphia still struggling to score goals, they’ll have to muster another great defensive performance if they are to come away with at least a point.

Next comes their U.S. Open Cup tie against USL side Richmond Kickers. So expect some rotation from both teams for the midweek cup games. But getting to that point won’t be easy.

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