The Philadelphia Union survived a tense MLS Cup Playoff opener, defeating Chicago Fire FC 6-4 on penalties following a 2-2 draw [7]. Philadelphia had built a two-goal lead, only to see it evaporate in the game's final moments, before ultimately prevailing in the shootout [2, 7]. Jesús Bueno secured the decisive penalty for the Union in the best-of-three first-round series opener [2, 7].
Key Moments
The match was physically intense from the start, with seven fouls called within the first 36 minutes [1]. As the first half drew to a close, both teams created promising chances [1]. Union goalkeeper Andre Blake made a crucial save on a left-footed shot from Jonathan Bamba to keep the game level [1]. The Union's early pressure and turnover creation didn't immediately translate into clear shots on goal [5]. Substitutions played a key role, with Mikael Uhre coming on in the 64th minute for the Union [6]. Chicago's lineup included Chris Brady, Joel Waterman, and Jack Elliott [3, 6]. Chicago made several substitutions of their own in the second half [6].
Shootout Drama
After a 4-0 victory earlier in the year, the Union entered the match with confidence, but Chicago proved a difficult opponent [5]. Despite the Union's strong start, they needed penalties to secure the victory after conceding a late comeback [7]. The Union ultimately prevailed 4-2 in the penalty shootout [7].
TL;DR
* The Philadelphia Union defeated Chicago Fire FC in a penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in the first game of their MLS Cup Playoff series [2, 7]. * The Union blew a two-goal lead late in the game, forcing the shootout [2]. * Jesús Bueno scored the winning penalty for Philadelphia [2, 7]. * Andre Blake's first-half save kept the game level early on, proving vital for the Union [1].