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Philadelphia Union vs. New York City FC Lineups, Preview

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sean Hartnett | Last updated Nov 23, 2025 2:47 PM ET

The Philadelphia Union will look to continue their dominant season by knocking out New York City FC in Sunday's MLS Cup Playoffs Eastern Conference semifinal.

NYCFC will look to throw a wrench in Philly's plans. The Pigeons enter Subaru Park as considerable underdogs, given that Alonso Martinez, Andres Perea, Aiden O’Neill, Keaton Parks and Malachi Jones are all unavailable.

Philadelphia allowed a league-low 35 goals against during the regular season and tied for the league’s fewest shots against at 349. The Union is unbeaten in 16 of 17 home games.

Center-back Jakob Glesnes and left-back Kai Wagner were both crucial to Philly's success and made the 2025 MLS Best XI.

New York City defeated Charlotte FC in both away legs to advance to the semifinals. They will need a top-tier performance from USMNT No. 1 goalkeeper Matt Freese to leave Subaru Park with a victory.

Matt Freese #49 of New York City FC looks on during the second half of the MLS match against the Columbus Crew at Yankee Stadium on September 17, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images

Where to Watch Philadelphia Union vs. New York City FC

NYCFC will face the Union at 7:45 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday at Subaru Park. The match will be broadcast on Fox Sports 1 and Apple TV’s MLS Season Pass. It will also be available on FOX Deportes, Fubo, DirecTV Stream and Sling Blue.