The Free Kick

With the Philadelphia Union's 2-1 loss to FC Cincinnati, that means no playoff soccer for the Union for the first time since 2017. What looked to be a promising start with a Quinn Sullivan goal in the second minute, defensive mistake cost the Union once more and saw their season come to an end. Todd goes over the latest news in MLS that includes: Should the Union sign Fabian Herbers, Union II to take on Crown Legacy, Jeremy Rafanello and Quinn Sullivan sign new long-term contracts with the Union. Todd also discusses his thoughts on the game against Cincinnati with topics: Union concede too many goals in the last five minutes in the first half, and the first five in the second half, Union's record against playoff teams in the Eastern Conference, Daniel Gazdag's injury changed everything for the Union, Jim Curtin's damning statement for players on the bench, and Kai Wagner calls out his teammates after the game.  MLS News: Chicago Fire decline the option on Fabian Herbers, should the Union sign him: [6:12] Union II to play Crown Legacy: [12:51] Jeremy Rafanello signs a new contract with the Union: [16:25] Quinn Sullivan signs a new contract with the Union: [19:53] Philadelphia Union v FC Cincinnati: Union's hot start against Cincinnati / scoring wasn't an issue for the Union this season: [26:02] Union concede two goals on defensive mistakes, again: [28:24] Union conceding within the last five minutes of the first half and five minutes into the second half: [31:26] 27 points dropped is the most in MLS: [34:44] 12 one goal losses this season + record against Eastern Conference Playoff teams: [35:48] Daniel Gazdag's injury changed everything: [37:22] Jim Curtin's damning comments about the players on the bench won't make a difference: [43:24] Kai Wagner calls out players/owners after the game: [51:22]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/

The Philadelphia Union fell to Orlando City by a score of 2-1 on Wednesday night in a game that could have seen the Union lose by multiple goals but also end in a draw. Todd shares his thoughts on Alejandro Bedoya and Olivier Mbaizo starting over Quinn Sullivan and Nathan Harriel, the Union's inconsistency in starting games, and whether the Union are scoreboard watching.   Orlando City v Philadelphia Union: Orlando Should've been up by multiple goals in the first 20 minutes: [7:25] Starting Alejandro Bedoya and Olivier Mbaizo over Quinn Sullivan and Nathan Harriel: [7:55] Do the Union deserve to make the playoffs: [19:50] Orlando City's first goal against the Union: [27:20] Union need more speed: [30:32] Comparing Bedoya and Mbaizo's starts to Sullivan and Harriel's: [32:47] The inconsistency in the Union's start's to the games: [35:28] Do the Union scoreboard watch: [43:10] Too many dropped points: [51:28]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/

The Philadelphia Union defeated NYCFC 5-1, marking their second-largest away victory in the last three seasons. With Andre Blake still sidelined due to a groin injury, the Union turned to 18-year-old homegrown goalkeeper Andrew Rick for a second consecutive game—and what a decision that was! Rick made seven crucial saves to secure the Union's win. Todd shares his thoughts on the game, discussing Andrew Rick's standout performance, Jakob Glesnes' vital goal, the Union's ability to convert their chances, their status as one of the best road teams in MLS over the last three seasons, and their dominance over NYCFC since the 2021 Eastern Conference Final loss.    NYCFC v Philadelphia Union: Starting lineup for the Union: [2:47] Andrew Rick's HUGE night: [7:07] Jakob Glesnes' vital goal: [26:28] Union's last seven games against NYCFC: [30:31] Union convert chances: [37:25] Union in top five of most wins on the road in MLS in last three seasons: [44:19] 3 Stars: [51:58]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/

The Philadelphia Union lost to Inter Miami by a score of 3-1 despite scoring first. Mikael Uhre made it two consecutive games in which he has scored, and it marks the third time this season that he has scored a goal within the first five minutes of a game. The Union had multiple chances to go up by two or more goals in the first half after costly mistakes by Miami defender Tomás Avilés, but they weren’t able to capitalize on those opportunities. Lionel Messi added a brace and an assist in his return to Inter Miami, and he is now tied for the second-most goals in MLS this season, just two away from the lead. Todd also goes over the latest news in MLS, including: Junior Moreno returning to MLS, this time with Houston Dynamo; Carlos Vela re-signing with LAFC; and Atlanta United parting ways with Carlos Bocanegra. Todd shares his thoughts from the Miami game with topics including: the value of Andre Blake to the Union, the missed opportunities for the team, whether the Union can still make the playoffs, and Jack Elliott's suspension for the upcoming match against NYCFC. MLS News: Houston Dynamo sign Junior Moreno: [3:26] LAFC re-sign Carlos Vela: [5:04] Carlos Bocanegra fired by Atlanta United: [6:21] Inter Miami v Philadelphia Union: Jack McGlynn disappoints in a game he needed to sign in: [8:34] Andre Blake shows just how important he truly is to the Union: [13:04] Union can't capitalize on Inter Miami's multiple mistakes: [28:13] Can the Union still make the playoffs: [36:57] Jack Elliott suspended against NYCFC: [44:02] 3 Stars: [50:51] Reviewing Keys to The Game: [53:31] Blunder of The Week: Apple TV for missing game action, again: [55:05]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/

The Philadelphia Union head down to Chase Stadium this Saturday to face Inter Miami, as the Union look to get into a playoff spot, as they currently sit in 11th place, one point behind Atlanta for the final spot. Joining Todd to preview the game is Kris Duran from the Battered Herons Podcast. Todd and Kris discuss, what makes Inter Miami so dangerous at home, Miami still winning without Messi, Chris Henderson's job at scouting young talent, Miami have stopped conceding first, the match between these two teams in June, and three keys for each team to earn at least a point.    Chicago Fire v Inter Miami: [7:00] Other players stepping up in Messi's absence: [9:40] Chris Henderson's ability to put together this roster together: [12:20] Is Tata Martino the right coach: [14:47] What makes Inter Miami difficult to play against at home:[18:26] Inter Miami no longer conceding first: [22:29] Last meeting between Philadelphia Union and Inter Miami:[28:07] Stats: [33:30] Three Keys to the game: [36:54]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/   Battered Herons Social Media: Twitter: @BatteredHerons YouTube: @BatteredHerons Twitter: @KBattereDHerons Battered Herons Podcast

The Philadelphia Union defeated New York Red Bulls by a score of 2-0 on Saturday thanks to goals by Mikael Uhre and Tai Baribo. That victory now makes it 14 straight games that the Union haven't lost to Red Bulls. Kyle and Jillian Almoney, and Jose Nunez join Todd to discuss their away trip to Red Bull Arena, and talk about Mikael Uhre and Danley Jean Jacques performances, and also the Union's home form v road form. MLS News: Daniel Gazdag pulls out of National team duty with Hungary due to injury + Jesus Bueno called up by Venezuela: [ New York Red Bulls v Philadelphia Union: Away trip thoughts: [ Union set the tempo quickly with Mikael and Tai/Andre Blake's key saves/Red Bulls hit post/cross bar: [ Mikael Uhre's strong performance: [ Danley Jean Jacques stars in his second start: [ Home form v Away form: [ 3 Stars: [ Blunder of The Week: Footgolf holes: [   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/   Kyle and Jillian Social Media: Twitter: @totwag Instagram: @theoneteamweagreeon   Jose Nunez Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91  

The Philadelphia resumed MLS play losing 1-0 to Columbus Crew Wednesday night, as Yaw Yeboah scored the game winning goal in the 75th minute. Losing to the Crew wasn't the worst thing to happen to the Union though, as they loss Nathan Harriel to injury in the 22nd minute due to back spasms. Todd discusses Jim Curtin's assessment of Quinn Sullivan's night, missed opportunities in the first half, the impact of the Nathan Harriel injury, and will the Union sign Free Agents? Philadelphia Union v Columbus Crew: Sam Adeniran hasn't started since August 8th/Olivier Mbaizo caught ball watching twice/Jack McGlynn hasn't started in back-back games: [7:00] Missed opportunities: [13:03] Quinn Sullivan's performance: [22:18] Nathan Harriel's injury: [34:58] Will the Union sign Free Agents: [40:40]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ The FUTVE English Podcast

The Philadelphia Union fell to the Colorado Rapids in penalties by a score of 3-1, after drawing 2-2 in regulation. Todd discusses the latest news around MLS that includes: Columubs Crew beating LAFC 3-1 in the LAFC final, and the Philadelphia Union have sold Damion Lowe to Saudi Arabia. Todd also the game against Colorado and discusses topics: Tai Baribo winning the golden boot with seven goals, successful or disappointing Leagues Cup for the Union, three games in six days, does Alejandro Bedoya believe there is pressure to win MLS Cup, and where is Danley Jean Jacques best position? News: Columbus Crew beat LAFC: [6:54] Philadelphia Union sell Damion Lowe: [8:07] Philadelphia Union v Colorado Rapids: Colorado are a different team than last season/struggling to defend set pieces/Jeśus Bueno's first start since July 17th: [11:09] Have we seen a Union player in better form than Tai Baribo current: [20:31] Was Leagues Cup a success or failure by the Union: [27:45] Three games in six day: [38:36] Where is Danley Jean Jacques best position: [48:08] Alejandro Bedoya on if there is pressure to win MLS Cup: [51:29] 3 Stars: [57:04] Blunder of The Week: Joelinton only gets a yellow card for clotheslining Bournemouth's goalkeeper: [58:33]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jim Curtin and Quinn Sullivan Pre game press conference Blunder of The Week - Joelinton

The Philadelphia Union's chance of hosting the Leagues Cup Final came to an end Wednesday night with a 3-1 loss to the Columbus Crew. The Union were unable to handle the front two of Diego Rossi and Cucho Hernández, who scored all three of Columbus' goals. Todd reviews comments from Jim Curtin's post-game press conference and the Union's Town Hall last Wednesday, August 14th. Topics include roster depth, future roster plans, and the ownership's commitment to backing Ernst Tanner. Columbus Crew v Philadelphia Union Stats heading into the match: [3:40] Union horrible defensively/couldn't keep up with Columbus' attack: [6:30] Stop playing Quinn Sullivan as a striker: [12:04] Jim Curtin on Columbus' roster build: [19:50] Ernst Tanner on the Union's future roster: [29:28] Ernst Tanner on Union's depth: [39:47] Ernst Tanner on owners willing to back him with money: [47:48] Richard Leibovitch confirms ownership will back Ernst Tanner and Jim Curtin: [52:58]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/

After a 4-3 penalty shootout win over Mazatlán, the Philadelphia Union are moving on to the Leagues Cup semifinals for the second consecutive year, where they will face the Columbus Crew! With the MLS transfer window officially closed, Todd discusses the moves that may have flown under the radar, including some by the Union themselves. Todd also previews Saturday night's Philadelphia Union game, covering topics such as the team's mentality despite being down a man, Andre Blake's heroics, Mikael Uhre's consistency, whether the Leagues Cup is the Union's best chance at a trophy, and what José Martínez means to the club. MLS News: Transfers: [3:08] Philadelphia Union loan Nelson Pierre to Charlotte Independence: [9:33] Philadelphia Union sell Sanders Ngabo: [10:25] Philadelphia Union to sell José Martínez to Corinthians: [11:55] Philadelphia Union v Mazatlan: Andre Blake heroics: [32:43] Mikael Uhre missed chance in second half: [34:02] Team fight despite a man down: [37:37] Mikael Uhre scores in back-back games: [42:48] Best chances to win a trophy: [45:26]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/

The Philadelphia Union are advancing to the quarterfinals of Leagues Cup after their 4-2 victory over FC Cincinnati! Todd discusses his thoughts from the game, with topics including: The reason for the Union's success during this six game unbeaten run, Mikael Uhre scores his first goal since June 15th, and the depth of the Union might be the best they've had ever? FC Cincinnati v Philadelphia Union: Overall thoughts (Goals/Saves): [2:05] Mikael Uhre's first goal since June 15th + his overall importance to the club: [16:13] What's been behind the Union's six-game unbeaten run: [22:50] The Union's depth: [29:21] 3 Stars: [39:04]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick

Both the Philadelphia Union and Philadelphia Union II come away with wins this weekend, as the first team defeats CF Montreal by a score of 2-0 in Leagues Cup to set up a matchup against FC Cincinnati, as Union II defeated Chicago Fire II to earn their first win in four games. Todd discusses the latest transfers in MLS including deals by: Real Salt Lake, Columbus Crew, New England Revolution, St. Louis City, and CF Montreal. Todd gives his thoughts from both Union games this weekend, and discusses Jim Curtin, Jakob Glesnes, CJ Olney and Marlon LeBlanc's comments from the games.    News: Transfers: [2:14] Philadelphia Union v CF Montreal: Union finally get a win over Montreal in 2024: [16:51] Positive results in the Union's last five home games: [28:04] Jakob Glesnes on Andre Blake: [33:06] Jim Curtin on Danley Jean Jacques: [36:50] Philadelphia Union II v Chicago Fire II: Mike Sheriden, Neil Pierre, CJ Olney, Cavan Sullivan and David Vazquez all excellent: [40:18] CJ Olney on the difficulties of moving between Union II and the first team: [46:12] Marlon LeBlanc on difficulties of a ever changing team: [48:48] Marlon Leblanc on CJ Olney signing a homegrown contract (fourth player this season): [51:52] Blunder of The Week: Aaron Boupenzda's contract terminated by MLS: [59:32]   Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick

The Philadelphia Union are currently riding a four-game unbeaten run as they draw to Cruz Azul in their final Leagues Cup Group Stage game by a score of 1-1. The Union eventually lose in penalty kicks, 5-3, but ultimately win the group, setting up a meeting against CF Montreal on Friday, August 9th. Todd goes over the latest MLS news that includes: Atlanta United sign Alexy Miranchuk, Philadelphia Union acquire $75K in GAM from St. Louis City, Union sign midfielder Danley Jean Jacques from FC Metz, Union sign CJ Olney to Homegrown deal, and overall thought’s on the USA Men’s teams performance at the Olympics. Todd also discusses his thoughts on the Union’s performance against Cruz Azul and discusses: how the Union handled the pressure from Cruz Azul, Union’s fitness levels give them the edge in the second half, Andre Blake shows why he’s arguably the best player in Philadelphia Union history, the Union’s press and why the diamond is still the best formation for the team, and the defensive breakdown on the goal scored by Cruz Azul. News: Atlanta United have acquired Alexey Miranchuk from Serie A side, Atalanta for $13M: [3:36] Philadelphia Union acquire $75k in GAM from St.Louis City for 2024 International Roster Slot: [5:07] Philadelphia Union are finalizing a deal to sign Danely Jean Jacques from FC Metz: [10:36] Philadelphia Union sign CJ Olney to a homegrown contract: [16:41] USA Men's Soccer falls to Morocco 4-0: [21:33] Philadelphia Union v Cruz Azul: Union struggle with Cruz Azul's press in the first half: [27:32] Cruz Azul's fitness levels not there in second half: [33:58] Union's press earns them the game tying goal with Daniel Gazdag: [36:07] Defensive breakdown on Cruz Azul's goal: [40:28] 442 Diamond IS the Union's best formation: [49:06] 3 Stars: [54:19] Blunder of The Week: Damion Lowe is the victim of racial messages: [55:03] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick

News: LAFC finalizing a deal to sign Nottingham midfielder, Lewis O’Brien on loan: New York Red Bulls finalizing a deal to sign Jean-Philippe Gbamin: FC Cincinnati sign Chidozie Awaziem: Philadelphia Union sell Richard Odada to Dundee United: Paxten Aaronson/Nate Harriel/Jack McGlynn shine at olympics: Philadelphia Union v Charlotte FC: Pretty boring game: Dean Smith calls that the worst match he's been apart of since being in MLS/calls out Union's pitch: Tai Baribo responds to Dean Smith's comments: Jim Curtin on defensive efforts: Leon Flach injury update/contract talks: Jose Martinez gets a yellow card before the game starts: 3 Stars: Blunder of The Week Referring in Morocco v Argentina Men's Soccer Olympics match:     Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/

Make that back-to-back wins now for the Philadelphia Union, and back-to-back hat tricks as well, as the Union defeat Nashville SC by a score of 3-0, thanks to a Daniel Gazdag hat trick! Todd discusses the latest news in MLS including: Mason Toye traded to Portland Timbers, Diego Gomez to be sold by Inter Miami to Brighton, and new MLS roster rule changes. Todd also discusses his overall thought's from Saturday's game against Nashville, including: Union go up by multiple goals at halftime for only the second time this season, Daniel Gazdag's third MLS hat trick, Olivier Mbaizo's solid night, Jesus Bueno and Sam Adeniran impress off the bench, Andre Blake's huge saves, and success starting with the spine of the team. And finally, Apple TV once again earn another Blunder of The Week.     Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/