Chicago Fire v Philadelphia Union: Anderson confidence boosted by late winner

Markus Anderson was emotional after scoring his first MLS goal in the Philadelphia Union’s win over Charlotte FC and wants to carry that momentum into this week.

With Saturday's game level at 1-1 going into second-half additional time, 21-year-old Anderson stepped up to net his first goal in the competition in the 98th minute.

Philadelphia hold top spot in the Eastern Conference, now four points clear of FC Cincinnati in second.

Anderson, who had previously struggled with injuries, is now looking to build on his first goal.

“This day is one I’ll be dreaming about for many, many days,” said Anderson.

“Honestly, it felt amazing. When they scored, we were just working hard, fighting our way back. When I saw that ball go into the net, it was just a lot of emotion.

“It’s very good for me, especially for my confidence. Obviously, I've been going through a lot of injuries through the past year and a half, working my way up off of injuries, and it's always just a big confidence boost for me being able to be up with the first team guys.

“Training every day with them, getting better every day, and it's just an experience I’m so happy to have.

“It feels great, obviously, but I can't put my head down yet. It's obviously just the beginning of a long career that I have, and I just want to keep moving forward and keep going.”

Philadelphia’s opponents on Wednesday, the Chicago Fire, are currently 10th in the Eastern Conference.

They are one spot off the playoff places but also level on points with Charlotte in ninth.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Chicago Fire – Hugo Cuypers

The performances of Cuypers have been key for Chicago this season. The striker is the team's top scorer with 10 goals, which is tied for the fourth-highest among the league's top scorers.

With 10 goals and two assists, the Belgian forward has already equalled his tally in both categories from the previous campaign, doing so in 15 fewer games.

Philadelphia Union – Indiana Vassilev

The Union's leading attacking threat has been Tai Baribo, who has scored on 12 occasions including three match-opening goals.

The striker is tied at the top of the scoring charts in the competition in 2025, though he could miss this fixture through injury. 

In the event that he misses out, Philadelphia may need Vassilev, who has only netted once this term, to step up.

MATCH PREDICTION – PHILADELPHIA UNION WIN

The Union defeated Charlotte 2-1 at home in their last league match to extend their unbeaten streak to 10, a club MLS record.

Hosts Chicago have one win, four draws, and two losses this season in seven MLS contests at Soldier Field.

In league matches on the road this season, Philadelphia have earned 16 points from 24 available.

The Union are also on a four-match away unbeaten streak. The last time they were beaten in an MLS road game was on April 12, against New York City.

However, Chicago have got the better of Philadelphia of late, going unbeaten in the last three MLS matches between the sides.

OPTA WIN PROBABILITY

Chicago Fire – 31.2%

Draw – 25.2%

Philadelphia Union – 43.6%