As Major League Soccer (MLS) gears up for another thrilling clash, CF Montreal will host the Philadelphia Union at Saputo Stadium this Saturday.
Both teams are desperately seeking a win, making this an eagerly anticipated matchup. Here's a comprehensive look at the game, including predictions, team news, and form.
Match Preview
Recent Form and Performance
Both CF Montreal and Philadelphia Union have struggled recently in MLS. Montreal has won only two of their last 16 domestic matches, finding themselves second from the bottom in the Eastern Conference after a disappointing 4-1 loss to the Colorado Rapids.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia Union sits just one point above Montreal in 11th place, coming off a 2-0 defeat against Charlotte FC.
CF Montreal: Home Strength and Defensive Woes
Montreal's home form has been one of their few positives this season.
They have secured points in four consecutive home league games, collecting 10 of their 19 total points at Saputo Stadium.
However, their defensive performance has been problematic, conceding 41 goals in 19 matchdays—more than any other team in the Eastern Conference.
Philadelphia Union: Uncharacteristic Struggles
The Union has experienced an uncharacteristic slump, with three consecutive league losses marking their longest losing streak this year.
Historically a strong team, Philadelphia's current six-match winless run is concerning, and they have a poor recent record at Saputo Stadium, losing their last two visits with a combined seven goals conceded.
Team News
CF Montreal
Montreal will be missing Ousman Jabang (hamstring) and Logan Ketterer (ankle). Joaquin Sosa returns from suspension, but key players Samuel Piette and Joel Waterman are still away with Canada at the Copa America, and Ariel Lassiter is with Costa Rica.
Jonathan Sirois will be in goal, looking to rebound from a rough outing against Colorado.
Philadelphia Union
Philadelphia has injury concerns as well, with Andre Blake and Isiah LeFlore sidelined due to knee issues and Alejandro Bedoya out with a quad injury.
Daniel Gazdag might still be unavailable after Hungary's Euro 2024 elimination, while Damion Lowe (Jamaica) and Jose Martinez (Venezuela) are at the Copa America. Youngster Andrew Rick is expected to start in goal again.
Predicted Lineups
CF Montreal: Sirois; Sosa, Corbo, Alvarez; Ruan, Saliba, Duke, Edwards; Opoku, Ibrahim, Toye
Philadelphia Union: Semmle; Harriel, Glesnes, Elliott, Wagner; Flach; Sullivan, Bueno; McGlynn; Uhre, Donovan
Prediction
Given both teams' poor form and Montreal's stronger home record, CF Montreal is favoured to edge this encounter.
Our prediction: CF Montreal 2-1 Philadelphia Union.
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