During Week 17 of the MLS, Philadelphia Union brought home three vital points at Talen Energy Stadium, overcoming a spirited challenge from Charlotte FC. The home team opened the scoring early in the second half, thanks to a well-executed play by Jesús Bueno at the 46th minute. However, Charlotte FC responded vigorously when Wilfried Zaha found the net in the 77th minute, leveling the match.
Despite the equalizer, the Union restored their lead when Chris Donovan netted the winning goal in the 54th minute of the second half, securing the win.
Wilfried Zaha’s goal in the 77th minute was a highlight of the clash. Receiving a cross from the right by Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, he skillfully placed the ball into the right lower corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance.
Chris Donovan stood out as the player of the match for Philadelphia Union. Throughout the game, he scored one goal and made two attempts on target against Charlotte FC.
Joining him in the spotlight was Jesús Bueno, who also impressed with his performance, contributing one goal and three shots on target.
Head coach Bradley Carnell deployed a 4-4-2 formation for Philadelphia, featuring Andrew Rick Jr. in goal; with Jakob Glesnes, Olivier Mbaizo, Kai Wagner, and Olwethu Makhanya comprising the defense; Jovan Lukic, Jesús Bueno, Alejandro Bedoya, and Benjamin Bender in midfield; and Indiana Vassilev alongside Bruno Damiani leading the attack.
On the opposing side, Dean Smith’s team opted for a 4-5-1 setup, with David Bingham guarding the net; Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty, Adilson Malanda, Andrew Privett, and Souleyman Doumbia forming the defensive line; Ashley Westwood, Brandt Bronico, Kerwin Vargas, Pep Biel, and Wilfried Zaha in midfield; as Idan Toklomati served as the sole forward.
The match was officiated by Ricardo Montero Araya.
Looking ahead, Philadelphia Union is set to face Chicago Fire in their next outing, while Charlotte FC will visit Sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park.
Substitutions for Philadelphia Union
46’ 2T – Olivier Mbaizo replaced by Francis Westfield; Alejandro Bedoya replaced by Chris Donovan. 56’ 2T – Jesús Bueno replaced by Markus Anderson. 75’ 2T – Benjamin Bender replaced by Jeremy Rafanello. 93’ 2T – Bruno Damiani replaced by Cavan Sullivan.
Yellow Cards for Philadelphia Union:
32’ 1T – Olwethu Makhanya; 44’ 1T – Benjamin Bender (Verbal abuse towards the referee); 29’ 2T – Francis Westfield; 35’ 2T – Bruno Damiani.
Substitutions for Charlotte FC
67’ 2T – Brandt Bronico replaced by Eryk Williamson; Kerwin Vargas replaced by Liel Abada. 89’ 2T – Idan Toklomati replaced by Tyger Smalls.
Yellow Cards for Charlotte FC:
28’ 1T – Kerwin Vargas (Fouling to prevent an opponent’s advance); 32’ 1T – Wilfried Zaha.