MLS U.S. Open Cup Match Preview: Philadelphia Union vs. New York Red Bulls

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Match: Philadelphia Union vs New York Red Bulls
Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Venue: Subaru Park, Chester, PA
Competition: 2025 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup – Quarterfinals
Broadcast: Paramount+, CBS Sports Network, Red Bulls Radio

Match Overview

The Philadelphia Union and New York Red Bulls renew their fierce Eastern Conference rivalry in a high-stakes U.S. Open Cup quarterfinal clash at Subaru Park. With a semifinal berth on the line, both clubs are expected to field strong lineups in what will be their 46th all-time meeting. Philadelphia enters the match on a 14-match unbeaten streak against the Red Bulls across all competitions. However, New York has shown resilience in recent Open Cup road matches, going 3-1-0 in their last four away fixtures in the tournament.

Team Form & Head-to-Head

TeamLast 5 MatchesU.S. Open Cup RecordHead-to-Head (All-Time)
Philadelphia UnionD-W-W-L-L3-0-2 in quarterfinals20W – 16L – 9D
New York Red BullsW-L-D-D-D6-3-1 in quarterfinals16W – 20L – 9D

Philadelphia defeated Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC in the Round of 16.

New York advanced past FC Dallas, with Emil Forsberg and Mohammed Sofo scoring key goals.

Tactical Breakdown

Philadelphia Union

Coach: Bradley Carnell (former Red Bulls assistant)

Formation: 3-4-3 / 4-2-3-1 hybrid

Key Players:

Tai Baribo – Union’s top MLS scorer in 2025

Quinn Sullivan & Nathan Harriel – Returning from U.S. Gold Cup duty

Strengths: High press, home-field advantage, midfield control

Concerns: Recent back-to-back 0–1 losses; injuries to Bueno and Westfield

New York Red Bulls

Coach: Sandro Schwarz

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Key Players:

Mohammed Sofo – 3 goals in 2 Open Cup matches

Emil Forsberg – Scored in back-to-back games

Strengths: Transition play, set pieces, compact defense

Concerns: Winless in last 5 vs. Union; key absences (Harper, Morgan)

What’s at Stake?

A spot in the 2025 U.S. Open Cup Semifinals

A chance to move one step closer to the Concacaf Champions Cup

Bragging rights in one of MLS’s most heated rivalries

How to Watch

Streaming: Paramount+

TV: CBS Sports Network

Radio: Red Bulls Radio (English)

MATCH ODDS

Philadelphia Union – 115              Draw + 250          New York Red Bulls + 270

Over 2.5 – 130                                   Under 2.5 – 110

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, July 8, 2025

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MLS Editor
Profile: A dedicated Major League Soccer analyst with a comprehensive understanding of the league’s tactical evolution, player‑development pathways, and rapidly expanding competitive landscape. This columnist provides in‑depth coverage that blends match‑film study, advanced metrics, and league‑wide context to highlight the storylines shaping modern MLS. Background: With extensive experience covering professional soccer across North America, the columnist has contributed to national sports outlets and digital platforms, offering perspective on coaching trends, roster construction, and organizational strategy. A background in sports journalism and analytics supports a disciplined approach to evaluating performance, interpreting data, and tracking long‑term club development across all MLS markets. Signature Coverage Areas: Match previews and tactical breakdowns Player performance evaluation and advanced statistical analysis Transfer‑window movement, roster‑building strategy, and academy development Coaching philosophies, formation trends, and league‑wide tactical shifts Historical context, rivalry features, and postseason analysis Style & Approach: The writing emphasizes clarity, accuracy, and accessibility — translating complex tactical concepts and statistical models into insights that resonate with both long‑time MLS supporters and new followers of the league. Each column reflects a commitment to balanced reporting, thoughtful evaluation, and a deep appreciation for MLS’s growth, diversity, and evolving identity within global soccer.