Philadelphia Union II are back in action after a lengthy break as they host Carolina Core FC at Subaru Park on Sunday afternoon.
Union II enter the weekend with an early-season record of 2-1-1, sitting near the top of the Eastern Conference standings with eight points through four matches. Sunday’s contest marks the squad’s first competitive fixture since March 22, when they earned a hard-fought result on the road against rivals Red Bull New York II. After conceding late in stoppage time, goalkeeper George Marks stepped up to help the Boys in Blue secure the extra point in the penalty shootout.
While the team hasn’t played a league match in nearly three weeks, the group has remained active, with several players contributing to the Union Academy’s run to the Dallas Cup championship. That continued involvement across levels highlights the club’s developmental pathway and has helped keep the squad sharp heading into its return to league play.
Through the opening stretch of the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season, Union II have established themselves as one of the more consistent sides in the Eastern Conference. The squad has collected points in three of its first four matches while conceding just three goals, setting a strong foundation as the schedule begins to take shape.
Carolina Core FC arrives in Chester still searching for its first win of the 2026 campaign, entering Sunday’s matchup on a four-game winless run to open the season. Despite showing flashes in attack, the North Carolina side has struggled to turn performances into results and will be eager to shift momentum against one of the conference’s early frontrunners. Sunday’s contest marks the first meeting between the two sides this year, with Union II aiming to take advantage of their home field and extend their positive start.
Kickoff from Subaru Park is set for Sunday, April 12, with fans able to catch all the action live on MLSNEXTPro.com and OneFootball.
