Toronto Fc Tfc vs Philadelphia Union Phi Picks and Predictions July 13th 2024

Union, Toronto FC Both Desperate to Halt Winless Streaks

Match Overview

Two struggling sides will face off as the Philadelphia Union visit Toronto FC on Saturday, each desperate to secure three points and end their winless streaks. The Union (4-9-9, 21 points) are winless in their past nine matches, going 0-5-4 during that span. Meanwhile, Toronto FC (7-13-3, 24 points) has lost six consecutive matches and is winless in their past nine, with a record of 0-7-2. Both teams’ last victories came on May 18.

Philadelphia Union’s Challenges

The Union have been unable to find a winning formula recently, having just one victory in their past 16 matches (1-9-6).

“We’re both struggling, both not where we want to be,” Philadelphia coach Jim Curtin said. “I think both have more quality within their group than the point total shows. But I’ve said it before you are what your record says you are, and we have to find a way to get a result.”

Philadelphia is coming off a 0-0 draw against the New York Red Bulls, where backup goalkeeper Andrew Rick earned his first career MLS shutout, breaking a five-match losing streak.

Starting goalkeeper Andre Blake, who has been out since April 27 due to meniscus surgery, rejoined the team for training and is listed as questionable for Saturday. Curtin stated that if Blake is ready, he will play.

Several other vital participants are supposed to return for the Union, including midfielder Jesus Bueno and forward Mikael Uhre. Damion Lowe and Alejandro Bedoya returned last week, and Jose Martinez could join the group in the wake of representing Venezuela at Copa America.

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“We’re getting stronger, but not at full strength,” Curtin added.

Notwithstanding, the Union will be without midfielder Jack McGlynn and protector Nate Harriel, both of whom are headed toward the Olympics.

Toronto FC’s Struggles

Toronto FC’s struggles are evident on both sides of the pitch. They have been outscored 17-4 during their six-match losing streak and 23-9 during their winless stretch, with two shutouts in their past four matches.

Toronto is coming off a 4-0 loss to the Columbus Crew in MLS play and a 2-1 loss to the Hamilton Forge in the midweek Canadian Championship match.

“When you’re on a run like this, confidence is ebbing and flowing so you are more susceptible to the big moments,” Toronto coach John Herdman said.

Lorenzo Insigne, who is third on the team with four goals, hasn’t scored since June 15, spanning five MLS matches and six across all competitions.

Key Players to Watch

Philadelphia Union

• Andrew Rick / Andre Blake: Rick earned his first career shutout in the last match, but if Blake is fit, his return could provide a significant boost to the team’s defense.
• Jesus Bueno and Mikael Uhre: Their return to the lineup will strengthen the Union’s midfield and attacking options.

Toronto FC

• Lorenzo Insigne: As one of the group’s central participants, Insigne needs to rediscover his scoring structure to assist Toronto with finishing their losing streak.
• Alex Bono: The goalkeeper’s presentation will be crucial in keeping Philadelphia’s assault under control.

Conclusion

As Philadelphia Union and Toronto FC both hope to end their delayed winless streaks, Saturday’s match is basic for the two teams’ aspirations. The return of central participants for the Union could give the necessary boost, while Toronto will plan to use their home benefit. With the two teams desperate for a triumph, fans can expect a furiously contested and high-stakes encounter.