Philadelphia Union take on the Portland Timbers in the Semifinals of the MLS is Back tournament tonight at 8 PM on FS1 and TUDN. The winner will move on the Finals while the losing club will be sent back home from Florida.
The Union enter the match coming off a strong showing again Sporting KC striking for three goals within a 15 minute span in the first half. The Boys in Blue showed a strong, aggressive attack lead by Sergio Santos who netted a. The team is slowly but surely approaching their perfect 90 that they have been striving for throughout this tournament. The defense is very confident in the counterattack up top and the trust in the back line paired with the speed up top in Santos, Kacper Przybylko and Brenden Aaronson continues to be a big key in the Union’s success.
Another huge factor in the Union’s success has been Jose “El Brujo” Martinez. After a rocky starting with the team, El Brujo is starting to settle down and have fun and his teammates are starting to take notice. Jack Elliot praised him in his presser on Monday, “He’s a guy that puts everything out there and leaves everything out there…it makes a defenders job a lot easier having someone like that in front of you.”
Portland Timbers have made their way to the semifinals after defeating FC Cincinnati in the Round of 16 followed by NYCFC in the Semifinals. The Union have an unfavorable record (1-6-3) against the Timbers but will look to put a stop to their powerful offense led by Sebastian Blanco. Diego Valeri has scored three goals and notched three assists against Philly during his career, but the veteran will likely be starting on the bench on Wednesday. Portland is prepared for the Union’s strong counterattack and will look to combat it with their own aggressive attack.
Players to Watch
Brenden Aaronson- After having another standout performance against SKC, eyes from all around the world will continue to be on the young star.
Jose “El Brujo” Martinez- El Brujo seems to be getting more and more comfortable every match and will continue to have have an impact and be a kick starter for the counterattack.
Sebastian Blanco- Blanco has been involved in seven of the ten goals scored by Portland in the Tournament.
Diego Valeri- Bringing his veteran leadership off the bench and onto the field throughout the tournament, Blanco has contributed to Portland’s success with one goal and two assists.
