Sunday, March 1, 2026 – 4:30 p.m. ET
Subaru Park, Chester, Pennsylvania
TV/Streaming: Apple TV (MLS Season Pass – free for all MLS games in 2026)
The Philadelphia Union open their 2026 home campaign at Subaru Park as defending Supporters’ Shield winners, hosting a New York City FC side looking to build on a gritty opening draw. This Eastern Conference rivalry clash features two teams with high expectations—Philly aiming to rebound from an opening-night loss to D.C. United, while NYCFC seeks their first win after a 1-1 stalemate at the LA Galaxy. Expect a tactical, physical battle with playoff implications brewing early.
Weather Updates
Predicted conditions: Typical early March in the Delaware Valley—highs in the mid-50s°F (13°C) during the day, cooling to upper 40s°F (8-9°C) by kickoff. Light winds (5-10 mph), partly cloudy skies, low chance of light showers. Subaru Park’s grass surface expected playable; potential for slick spots if any rain, favoring physical, ground-based play and set-piece opportunities over high pressing.
Team Context
- Philadelphia Union (0-1-0, Eastern Conference): Reigning Supporters’ Shield champions (66 points in 2025); Bradley Carnell’s side emphasizes high pressing, midfield dominance, and home fortress status at Subaru Park.
- New York City FC (0-0-1, Eastern Conference): Solid road point in opener; Pascal Jansen’s rebuild focuses on possession, defensive organization, and integrating new pieces for consistency.
Recent Team Forms (Last Match – Week 1)
Union: 0-1-0 (1-0 loss at D.C. United on Feb. 21). Uncharacteristic road defeat—conceded in 23rd minute to ex-Union forward Tai Baribo. Limited chances created, defensive solidity tested but no breakthrough; second road game in four days contributed to fatigue.
NYCFC: 0-0-1 (1-1 draw at LA Galaxy on Feb. 22). Fell behind early (João Klauss 2′) but equalized via Nicolás Fernández Mercau penalty (66′) after Galaxy red card. Resilient second-half response, strong defensive stand, but frustrated by missed opportunities.
Injury Report
Philadelphia Union:
- No major new injuries reported post-opener. Core rotation (Tai Baribo no longer on roster; current forwards, midfield engine like Dániel Gazdag if fit, Jack McGlynn) available. Minor fatigue from Week 1 road loss possible, but full squad depth expected.
New York City FC:
- No significant absences noted after Galaxy draw. Key contributors (Nicolás Fernández Mercau, Hannes Wolf, Thiago Martins, etc.) fit. Minor travel fatigue from West Coast trip, but rotation healthy.
Both teams in good early shape; monitor final reports closer to kickoff.
Key Player Matchups
- Dániel Gazdag / forward line (Union) vs. NYCFC center-backs (Thiago Martins / others): Union’s pressing and box threats test NYCFC’s backline; key for Philly set pieces and counters.
- Nicolás Fernández Mercau / Hannes Wolf (NYCFC attackers) vs. Union defense: Fernández Mercau’s penalty heroics and creativity exploit spaces; NYCFC counters could punish Union’s high line.
- Midfield battle (Union engine vs. NYCFC possession): Control of tempo crucial—Union’s intensity vs. NYCFC’s build-up.
- Set Pieces & Home Edge: Philly strong at Subaru Park on corners/free kicks; NYCFC resilient on road.
Series History
Eastern Conference rivalry remains heated. Recent meetings competitive (e.g., NYCFC 1-0 win in 2025 Eastern Semifinals). Philly strong at home in H2H (multiple wins/draws at Subaru Park). Games often tactical, low-to-moderate scoring with late drama or set-piece goals; totals trend Under in many encounters.
Betting Trends
- Union heavy home favorites (~55-60% win prob); value after road loss but strong rebound at Subaru Park.
- NYCFC solid road drawers (point in opener); undervalued as underdogs.
- H2H often Under 2.5 or low-scoring; early-season caution common.
- BTTS possible (~50%); overs less likely in tactical matchups.
MATCH ODDS
New York City FC + 265
Philadelphia Union – 110
Draw + 250
Over 2.5 – 115 Under 2.5 – 115
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, February 28, 2026
