Atlanta United v Philadelphia Union: Carnell does not want repeat of comeback drama

Philadelphia Union coach Bradley Carnell quipped that Wednesday’s stunning victory over the LA Galaxy reduced his life expectancy.

The Union came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 and continue the Galaxy’s dismal start to the season.

In the process, Philadelphia also snapped their 13-year wait for a win over the Galaxy.

Tai Baribo’s brace proved crucial, though Carnell did not wish to go through such drama again any time soon.

“We had to dig deep,” Carnell said.

“We had to show that we are a good team. We had to show that we can come back in tough moments.

“We had to show that the points we gave up against Columbus [last week] was a glitch. And we also proved that we can solve puzzles in 45 minutes.”

“But we don’t want to do this in every game. It takes a few years off my life, I think!”

Matchwinner Baribo said: “I really, really, really wanted to win. I didn’t care who scored, and I just wanted to win.”

Next up for the Union are Atlanta United, who are coming off some late drama of their own.

They seemed destined to lose 1-0 to Austin FC, but Jamal Thiare popped up with a stoppage-time equaliser.

All love, all Unified pic.twitter.com/hZbgmioqFQ

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) May 15, 2025

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Atlanta United – Miguel Almiron

Almiron only created one chance against Austin, but it was a crucial one, as he played his part in Thiare’s equaliser.

The former Newcastle United winger has also netted four goals in MLS this season, so is a definite threat.

Philadelphia Union – Tai Baribo

Baribo now has 10 goals this season in MLS.

He is the league’s top scorer, one goal ahead of Cristian Arango on nine, with his double against the Galaxy coming from 0.65 expected goals, displaying his clinical edge.

MATCH PREDICTION: DRAW

Though this match sees 13th in the Eastern Conference take on second, Opta’s supercomputer is expecting a tight encounter.

The Union have won four of their last five league games, including a 3-0 home win over Atlanta last month.

Atlanta, meanwhile, are winless in seven matches. They last beat Philadelphia in July 2023, securing a 2-0 win on that occasion.

OPTA WIN PROBABILITY

Atlanta United – 32.9%

Philadelphia Union – 41.5%

Draw – 25.6%