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The Free Kick
The Free Kick
Author: Todd Lewis
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Maryland's Number One Philadelphia Union Podcast! The Free Kick is a weekly podcast hosted by Todd Lewis, in which he is joined by weekly guests that include MLS commentators and journalists from around the league. Each week consists of match previews, reviews, and news and rumors from around the league!
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The Philadelphia Union FINALLY deployed three centerback's to start a game this season, but the result still stayed the same with their fourth loss on the season. Todd gives his thoughts on Saturday's FC Cincinnati v Philadelphia Union as Pat Noonan is able to get the best of Jim Curtin once more. Todd discusses Pat Noonan's strong praise for the Union for the way they defended, Jim Curtin's praise for the starting XI and limiting Cincy's talented front three, Daniel Gazdag's thoughts on why he's dropping deeper into the field, and is there concern from Ale Bedoya on the Union's lack of goals. Todd also discussed the latest news from MLS, including Jack McGlynn, Daniel Gazdag, and Damion Lowe earning Best XI honors for the first leg of the CCL quarterfinals, Union's u15 and u17's making moves at the GA Cup, and Apple worried about MLS numbers? News: Jack McGlynn, Daniel Gazdag, and Damion Lowe earning Best XI honors for the first leg of the CCL quarterfinals: [7:28] Union U15 and U17's reach the final in the GA Cup: [4:32] Apple "worried" about MLS subscription numbers: [8:14] FC Cincinnati v Philadelphia Union: Pat Noonan full of praise for the Union: [17:08] Jim Curtin is happy with the starting XI's performance + Damion Lowe update: [26:02] Daniel Gazdag dropping deeper into the midfield: [38:14] Any concern from Ale Bedoya for the lack of goals scored from the Union: [40:53] 3 Stars: [44:40] Goal Breakdown: [47:30] Blunder of The Week: LA Galaxy are a total meme club: [51:31] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod thefreekick.net Youtube: @The Free Kick
After blowing a 2-0 lead, the Union survived in penalty kicks against the Chicago Fire, taking a 1-0 lead in the Round One best-of-three playoff series. Todd and José discuss the latest news, including Vancouver Whitecaps center back Tristan Blackmon winning MLS Defender of the Year over Jakob Glesnes and Kai Wagner. They share their thoughts on the Union's 4-2 penalty shootout win over Chicago, covering topics such as the Fire's time-wasting tactics early in the game, finding space down the right side of the field, Mikael Uhre's instant impact off the bench once again, and whether it's a good thing the Union went to penalties in their first playoff match. They also hand out Blunder of the Week to PTI's Michael Wilbon for his comments about MLS. News: Tristan Blackmon wins MLS defender of the year: [4:19] Philadelphia Union v Chicago Fire (2-2): Jack Elliott's golazo: [17:18] Two set piece goals conceded, zero from open play: [22:54] Chicago Fire's Time Wasting Tactics Early On: [31:31] Finding Space Down The Right Side: [36:26] Mikael Uhre's Instant Impact Off Bench Once Again: [47:09] Is it A Good Thing The Union Went to Penalties in Their First Playoff Game: [56:30] Blunder of The Week: Michael Wilbon's Comments About MLS: [1:07:32] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ PK heroics! Philadelphia Union fend off Chicago Fire comeback
The Philadelphia Union will face off against the Chicago Fire in their best-of-three series. The Union won both regular-season matchups against the Fire by scores of 1-0 and 4-0. Todd and José are joined by Philadelphia Union Radio PxP announcer Dave Leno to preview the game and discuss several topics, including: Apple announcing that the MLS playoffs are available to all Apple TV users, how the Apple deal will involve MLS sharing its latest data after the regular season, the correlation between 2020 and 2022 compared to 2024 for the Union, and the moment Dave realized the Supporters' Shield was possible for the Union. Apple Makes MLS Playoffs Available For Free To All Apple TV Subscribers: [7:11] MLS Announces Viewership Increase of 29% on Linear And Streaming Platforms (3.7 Million Live Match Viewers Per Week) - How Will The Apple Deal Evolve: [22:33] Correlation Between The Union's 2020, 2022, And 2025 Seasons: [35:10] Philadelphia Union v Chicago Fire Best-of-Three Preview: [51:48] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Dave's Social Media: Twitter: @DaveLenoTV Instagram: @davelenotv MLS' 30th Regular Season: Strength, Scale, and Unmatched Fan Engagement
The Philadelphia Union fell to Charlotte FC by a score of 2-0 in a game that didn't matter for the Union positionally in the table, as they had already clinched the Supporters' Shield. Todd is joined by José Nuñez to discuss the latest Union news, which includes Frankie Westfield's performances at the U-20 World Cup, MLS 22 Under 22, and the selections of Jamir Johnson, Cavan Sullivan, Kellan LeBlanc, and Jordan Griffin to represent the United States at the U-17 World Cup in Qatar. Neil Pierre was also named MLS Next Pro Defender of the Year. Todd and José share their thoughts from the game against Charlotte, with topics including missed calls according to Carnell, Alejandro Bedoya potentially getting his final regular-season start for the Union, positives to build on from the second half, and who they'd rather face in the first playoff game—Chicago or Orlando City. Todd ends the show with Blunder of the Week, which goes to MLS for introducing AI to write match recaps. News: Frankie Westfield's performances at the U-20 World Cup: [4:08] Jamir Johnson, Cavan Sullivan, Kellan LeBlanc, and Jordan Griffin being selected to represent the United States at the U-17 World Cup in Qatar: [9:20] Neil Pierre being named MLS Next Pro Defender of the Year: [13:47] MLS 22 Under 22 list: [18:58] Charlotte v Philadelphia Union: Alejandro Bedoya possibly making his final regular-season start for the Union: [28:00] Starting XI, should Carnell have started his starters or rotated: [33:28] Missed calls according to Carnell: [53:38] Positives to build on from the second half: [59:42] Who they'd rather face in the first playoff game — Chicago or Orlando City: [1:01:52] Blunder of The Week: Chris Armas' Unprofessional Response To Matt Pollard of Burgundy Wave: [1:15:00] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/
The Philadelphia Union clinched the 2025 MLS Supporters' Shield with a gritty 1-0 victory over NYCFC, thanks to Mikael Uhre's lone goal. The Union set a new club record with 20 wins in 33 games, with one match still remaining. A win in their final game would also set a new club record for total points, bringing them to 69. Todd is joined by José Nuñez to discuss the Union's win over NYCFC and their clinching of home-field advantage throughout the playoffs by securing the Supporters' Shield. Topics include: Was that starting XI the best one moving forward? The Union's defensive emergence, how the Union won the Supporters' Shield (key wins and transfers), Andre Blake's thoughts on what he believes Bradley Carnell has brought to this team, and what winning the Supporters' Shield means to Alejandro Bedoya. Todd also ends the show with Blunder of the Week, which goes to MLS' Michele Giannone for asking Bradley Carnell about St. Louis CITY right after the Union clinched the Supporters' Shield. Philadelphia Union v NYCFC: Was That Starting XI The Best One Moving Forward: [18:23] Mikael Uhre stepping up lately: [44:55] The Union's Defensive Emergence: [57:40] The Union's Supporters' Shield Journey: [1:01:44] Blunder of The Week: Michele Giannone Asks About St. Louis CITY After The Union's Shield Win: [1:37:00] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ https://www.goal13foundation.org/
The Philadelphia Union find themselves in the driver's seat once again, controlling their own destiny to win the Supporters' Shield. They took care of business comfortably against D.C. United, defeating them 6-0, while Inter Miami drew 1-1 with Toronto FC. Todd talks about the latest Union news, including Frankie Westfield being selected for the U-20 USA World Cup team. He also shares his thoughts from the game against D.C. United, covering topics such as injuries to Quinn Sullivan, Kai Wagner, Indiana Vassilev, and Jeremy Rafanello; Milan Iloski continuing to shine for the Union and his growing chemistry with Mikael Uhre; adjustments to Bradley Carnell's game plan following the early substitution of Quinn Sullivan; and, with two games remaining, whether the Union can close out the Supporters' Shield. News: Frankie Westfield selected to the U.S. Under-20 Men's National Team For 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup: [8:01] MLS release roster profiles for clubs as of September 18, 2025: [21:09] D.C. United v Philadelphia Union: Union break more records against D.C. United / not going to overassess game: [26:00] Injuries to Quinn Sullivan, Kai Wagner, Indy Vassilev and Jeremy Rafanello: [40:24] Tactically adjustments once Quinn Sullivan has to be subbed: [49:55] Milan Iloski continues to shine + chemistry with Mikael Uhre: [57:35] Two Games Left, Can The Union Hold Onto The Supporter's Shield Lead: [1:07:07] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Laughter, Smiles, and Support Define Union's 'Fearless 43' Celebration - Kyle Almoney
The Philadelphia Union suffered their third loss of 2025 to Nashville SC, falling 3-1 on Tuesday night in the U.S. Open Cup Semifinal. Todd shares his thoughts from the match, including Bradley Carnell's decision to start Milan Iloski over Quinn Sullivan, Olwethu Makhanya being caught ball-watching on two of Nashville's three goals, the Union's struggles defending set pieces in their last two games (conceding five), the adjustments they made in the second half to open up their attack, and the club's overall record in Cup Semifinals. Nashville v Philadelphia Union: Did the Union let the wrong coaches go: [8:19] Referring decisions: [11:36] Lineup decisions (Milan Iloski over Quinn Sullivan: [28:39] Andrew Rick's strong performance: [40:13] Conceding Set Piece Goals the last two games: [44:36] What changed in the second half: [54:11] Union's record in Semifinals: [1:02:03] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/
The Philadelphia Union suffered the worst loss in club history, falling 7-0 to the Vancouver Whitecaps, but they remain in first place in the Supporters' Shield standings. Todd covers the latest news, including CJ Olney being recalled from his loan with Lexington SC and the USMNT's upcoming friendly against Paraguay on Saturday, November 15, at Subaru Park. He also shares his thoughts on the Union's historic loss, with topics such as Bradley Carnell's lineup, Vancouver exploiting the Union's flanks, and the team moving on to focus on the remaining four MLS games and Tuesday's U.S. Open Cup semifinal against Nashville SC. Finally, Todd wraps up with Blunder of the Week, which goes to a Reddit user for calling the Union's PR team "amateurs." News: CJ Olney recalled from Lexington SC loan: [4:22] USMNT to play friendly at Subaru Park on November 15th against Paraguay: [9:24] Vancouver Whitecaps v Philadelphia Union: Union goal taken away / harsh penalty against Alejandro Bedoya: [12:15] Union's worst first half defensive performance since 2015: [17:26] Union's Lineup: [25:11] Vancouver exploits Union's flanks: [40:34] Moving on And Focusing on the U.S. Open Cup Semifinals Against Nashville SC And Last Four MLS Games: [46:10] Blunder of The Week: Reddit User on r/phillyunion Accuses Philadelphia Union PR For Being "Amateurs" Because They "Only Let Two People In Last Night's Press Conference": [53:57] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/
The Philadelphia Union defeated FC Cincinnati 1-0 thanks to Bruno Damiani's goal—his first in seven matches—as the Union completed the league double over Cincinnati for the first time since 2021. With the win, the Union improve to 17-6-6 and remain in first place in the Supporters' Shield standings. Todd is joined by José Núñez to discuss The Union's National Team call ups, saiah LeFlore's loan move to Detroit City in the USL Championship, Union sign former Charlotte goalkeeper George Marks, and Julián Carranza to join Leicester City on loan from Feyenoord They also share their thoughts on the Cincinnati game, including: Damiani's first goal in seven matches, Andrew Rick making a case to become the Union's starting goalkeeper, the Union's strong defensive performances on the road, with a league-low 11 goals conceded. Finally, Todd and José take a look at the Blunder of the Week, awarded to former Union II goalkeeper Brooks Thompson for his performance in Saturday's Las Vegas Lights vs. Lexington SC match. News: Isaiah LeFlore Loaned To USL Championship side Detroit City: [11:27] Union Sign Former Charlotte FC Goalkeeper George Marks For Rest of Season: [16:12] Union international call ups: [19:36] Julián Carranza to join Leicester City on loan from Feyenoord: [25:03] FC Cincinnati v Philadelphia Union: Union do league double over Cincinnati: [32:32] Jakob Glesnes injury update: [36:14] Was this a must win game for either Cincinnati or Philadelphia: [40:19] Bruno Damiani's First Goal In Seven Games, Maybe Damiani Can Be A Big Moment Player: [42:52] Union's Strong Defensive Display, League Low 11 Goals Conceded On The Road: [54:54] Andrew Rick Making A Strong Case For Becoming The Union's Starting Goalkeeper: [1:04:51] Blunder of The Week: Brooks Thompson Takes Eye Off Ball, Concedes Horrible Own Goal in Las Vegas Lights v Lexington SC Game: [1:18:13] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ José's Interview with Dylan Lane about George Marks
The Philadelphia Union snapped a two-game winless run with a 4-0 victory over the Chicago Fire, thanks to goals from Tai Baribo, Kai Wagner, Danley Jean Jacques, and Milan Iloski, as the Union return to the top of the Supporters' Shield standings. Todd discusses his thoughts on the game, covering topics including Milan Iloski's versatility as a major asset for Bradley Carnell, Iloski nearly 'quitting' soccer after his time with Real Salt Lake, Pierce Holbrook's injury and the Union's options for a backup goalkeeper, and Frankie Westfield and Kai Wagner shutting down Jonathan Bamba and Philip Zinckernagel. Todd closes the show with Blunder of the Week, which goes to Fotis Bazakos for awarding a "penalty" in the Vancouver Whitecaps vs. St. Louis CITY game. Philadelphia Union v Chicago Fire: Milan Iloski becomes the 18th different goal scorer for the Union / third game this season with four goals scored / Chicago had a chance to score multiple times: [10:35] Backup Goalkeeper Pierce Holbrook Injures Knee In Warm, Union Down Three Goalkeepers Now: [15:04] Milan Iloski's Strong Performance Gives Bradley Carnell Decisions For His Starting XI Going Forward: [25:10] Milan Iloski Was Going To 'Quit' Soccer After RSL Stint: [37:08] Frankie Westfield And Kai Wagner Shut Down Jonathan Bamba And Phillip Zinckernagel: [45:00] Blunder of The Week: VAR determines 'penalty' check in Vancouver v St. Louis CITY game: [52:40] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Soccerwise Interview with Bradley Carnell
The Philadelphia Union's 16-game unbeaten streak against the New York Red Bulls finally came to an end with a 1-0 loss. In a match that saw limited opportunities for both sides, Bruno Damiani had a penalty saved, and Dylan Nealis scored his first career MLS goal to give the Red Bulls the victory. Todd is joined by José Nuñez to discuss the latest Union news, including the Union finalizing a deal to send Olivier Semmle on loan to North Carolina FC of the USL Championship. Todd and José also break down the 1-0 loss, covering topics such as Andre Blake's hamstring injury that forced an early substitution, rotation in the Union squad, and Bruno Damiani's penalty miss. Todd also discusses Blunder of the Week, which goes to New York Red Bulls mascot "Redd" for interrupting Bradley Carnell's press conference. News: The Philadelphia Union are finalizing a deal to loan German goalkeeper Oliver Semmle to North Carolina FC of the USL Championship: [11:41] New York Red Bulls v Philadelphia Union: Olivier Mbaizo at fault for the goal conceded: [27:22] Union rotate seven players from Wednesday's game: [35:31] Andre Blake injured / Andrew Rick stepping in: [46:50 / 1:02:27] Bruno Damiani penalty miss: [50:31] Blunder of The Week: New York Red Bulls Mascot 'Redd' Interrupts Bradley Carnell's Press Conference: [1:15:43] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/
After getting off to an early 1-0 lead in the 4th minute thanks to Indiana Vassilev, the Union conceded another late goal to draw 1-1 with Toronto FC. Todd discusses his thoughts from the game, including why the Union struggled after the first goal, Tai Baribo's disallowed goal, and dropping points against teams they should beat. Todd also discusses blunder of the week, which goes to LA Council member Heather Hutt for telling Son Heung-min to help the USA win the 2026 World Cup. News: MLS release playoff schedule: [5:12] Philadelphia Union v Toronto FC: Milan Iloski makes debut off bench/Jakob Glesnes suspended for New York Red Bulls/Union starting XI: [11:51] Indiana Vassilev goal: [17:30] Why the Union struggled after scoring first: [20:57] Tai Baribo disallowed goal: [34:14] Union dropping points against teams they should beat: [43:09] Blunder of The Week: LA Council member Heather Hutt tells Son Heung-min to help the USA win the 2026 World Cup: [53:00] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/
With nine games remaining in the MLS regular season, the Philadelphia Union continue to sit atop the Supporters' Shield standings with 50 points. Can they keep that run going? Todd is joined by José Nuñez and Philadelphia Union PxP Radio Announcer Dave Leno to discuss. Other topics include Milan Iloski's acquisition from FC Nordsjælland, David Vazquez's loan to San Diego FC, the Union's current MVP, whether this run mirrors the 2022 season, and a brief preview of the upcoming match against Toronto FC. Philadelphia Union Acquire Milan Iloski From FC Nordsjælland: [8:14] David Vazquez Loaned To San Diego FC For $100K in GAM ($50K in 2025 & $50K in 2026), San Diego Have Option To Make Loan Permanent: [28:13] Tai Baribo Gets Green Card, Union Trade Intl. Slot To Austin FC For $50K GAM in 2026: [38:37] Philadelphia Union v Eintracht Frankfurt Friendly: [40:00] 2025 Philadelphia Union Season: [54:56] Similar vibes to 2022 team: [1:03:11] Union MVP at this point: [1:14:40] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Dave's Social Media: Twitter: @DaveLenoTV
Mikael Uhre comes off the bench and scores a brace as the Union defeat the Colorado Rapids 3-1, becoming the first team to reach 50 points in MLS this season. Todd discusses the latest news, including Tai Baribo winning MVP of the 2025 MLS All-Star Game, as MLS defeated Liga MX 3-1. He also shares his thoughts on the match against the Rapids, with topics including Mikael Uhre's impact off the bench, Indiana Vassilev's crucial role in the Union's comeback, staying positive despite missed chances, and whether it's possible to wrongly assess a soccer game. Todd ends the show with Blunder of the Week, which goes to Pep Guardiola for "destroying soccer." News: Tai Baribo named 2025 MLS All Star MVP: [3:38] Philadelphia Union v Colorado Rapids: 2025 is looking very similar to 2022: [9:20] Union's concede first goal: [20:27] Super Sub Mikael Uhre: [25:33] Indiana Vassilev's crucial role against Colorado: [39:41] Staying positive despite missed chances in first half: [47:43] Can you wrongly assess a soccer game: [56:00] Blunder of The Week: Doncaster Rovers try playing out of back against Blackpool (Pep Guardiola killed soccer): [1:00:31] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/
What could arguably be the most boring and chaotic game for the Philadelphia Union in 2025? Somehow, the Union came out of Houston with a point, tying the Dynamo 1-1 thanks to a goal from Alejandro Bedoya. Todd discusses the latest news, including CJ Olney's loan to Lexington SC of the USL Championship and Kai Wagner's selection for the 2025 MLS All-Star Game in Austin, Texas. Todd shares his thoughts on the game against Houston, covering topics such as Rosendo Mendoza's refereeing performance, Jack McGlynn scoring and kissing the Houston Dynamo badge, and why Bradley Carnell made seven changes. Finally, Todd discusses the Blunder of the Week, which goes to the PRO referees who selected Rosendo Mendoza as the center referee for the 2025 MLS All-Star Game. News: CJ Olney loaned to Lexington SC: [3:03] Kai Wagner named to MLS All Star Team: [6:21] Houston Dynamo v Philadelphia Union: Jesús Bueno concedes penalty/Alejandro Bedoya comes 17th different player to score for the Union/15th set piece goal of the season for the Union: [9:28] Union rotate seven players from team on Wednesday: [22:09] Jack McGlynn celebration (kisses Houston badge): [32:21] Rosendo Mendoza's referee performance: [41:21] Blunder of The Week: PRO Referees Announce Rosendo Mendoza As Head Referee For 2025 MLS All Star Game: [53:46] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Houston Dynamo Press Conference Goal.com Interview With Jack McGlynn PRO Review - Rosendo Mendoza's huge ego in NYCFC v Chicago Fire Match
The Philadelphia Union defeated CF Montréal 2-1 thanks to goals from Tai Baribo and Olwethu Makhanya, as the Union remain on top of the Supporters' Shield standings. Todd is joined by José Nuñez to discuss the match, with topics including Olwethu Makhanya's breakout season, Andre Blake continuing to prove he's an elite MLS goalkeeper, and the Union's continued dominance on set pieces. News: Philadelphia Union officially open the WSFS Bank Sports complex: [9:21] Philadelphia Union v CF Montreal: Union fortunate to get all three points/Prince Owusu was a problem all night/Danley Jean Jacques' abilities/Nathan Harriel 100 appearances in MLS for Union: [21:00] Union continue to dominant set pieces: [36:18] Olwethu Makhanya's breakout season: [50:51] Andre Blake proves he's still an elite MLS goalkeeper: [1:00:31] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Get to know Club President Tim McDermott | The DOOP pres by Subaru Inside Philly's set piece success | Coffee with Coach
The Philadelphia Union snapped a two-game losing streak with a 2-0 win over the New York Red Bulls, extending their unbeaten run against the Red Bulls to 15 games across all competitions. Todd discusses the latest news, including Olwethu Makhanya and Indiana Vassilev earning spots on the bench for Team of the Matchday 23 & 24. Todd also shares his thoughts on the match against the Red Bulls, covering topics such as the Union's strong start to games, their unbeaten run against the Red Bulls, Sal Olivas' impact, and the Union's strong defensive effort. Todd ends the show with the Blunder of the Week, which goes to Nouhou Tolo of the Seattle Sounders and Luis Enrique of PSG. News: Indiana Vassilev and Olwethu Makhanya named to Team of The Matchday For Weeks 23/24: [6:17] Philadelphia Union v New York Red Bulls: Union extend MLS unbeaten streak to 12 against New York Red Bulls / Top of Supporters' Shield Standings again / Bruno Damiani first goal from open play since April against D.C. United: [11:14] Union continue to start games well / undefeated streak against Red Bulls: [14:17] Sal Olivas' impresses: [30:47] Union's strong defensive effort: [39:44] Blunder of The Week: Nouhou (Seattle Sounders) Throws Ball At SKC Fan, Gets Red Card / Luis Enrique Pushes Chelsea's João Pedro After Final Whistle In FIFA CWC: [50:09] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Nouhou Throws Ball At SKC Fan Luis Enrique Pushes João Pedro
For the first time under head coach Bradley Carnell, the Philadelphia Union have lost back-to-back games, with their latest defeat a 1-0 loss to Nashville, thanks to a late penalty kick goal from Hany Mukhtar. Todd is joined by José Nuñez to discuss the game, covering topics including: Cavan Sullivan's first career Union start, the Union's lack of goals and chances in the last three games, and whether there is any concern regarding Bruno Damiani's goals and assists involvement. Nashville v Philadelphia Union: Union up a man for over 30 minutes/Tai Baribo plays more than 30 minutes since Dallas/starting XI: [5:50] Cavan Sullivan's first career start: [33:40] Union's lack of goals/chances created the last three games: [49:12] Bruno Damiani's production: [1:02:12] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/
The Philadelphia Union fell to the Columbus Crew by a score of 1-0, thanks to a goal from Mo Farsi two minutes into first-half stoppage time. With the loss, the Union's 11-game unbeaten streak has come to an end. Todd discusses the latest news, including the most recent MLSPA salary guide. He also shares his thoughts from the match and covers topics such as Jovan Lukić playing as a center back, the impact referee Filip Dujic had on the game, and what the recent stretch of matches tells us about the Union II players. Finally, Todd reveals the Blunder of the Week, which goes to what used to be a prominent podcast. News: MLSPA release salary guide: [4:03] Nelson Pierre transferred to Vancouver Whitecaps 2: [23:15] Columbus Crew v Philadelphia Union: Union's lack of chance creation + two chances on set pieces in second half: [25:53] Jovan Lukić at centerback: [31:52] Filip Dujic's impact: [40:15] What have we learned from Union II players these last few games: [46:20] Blunder of The Week: Men in Blazer's social media calls Atlanta United fans "PSG fans": [55:14] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/
The Philadelphia Union continue to find ways to grind out results, defeating the Chicago Fire 1-0 thanks to a Bruno Damiani penalty kick in the 10th minute. Todd discusses the latest news, including Thomas Müller being offered to the Union and Tai Baribo and Jakob Glesnes being selected for the 2025 MLS All-Star Game. Todd also shares his thoughts on the game, covering topics such as Alejandro Bedoya's performance as the fourth-choice right back, Jakob Glesnes' best performance of the year, and the Union's ability to grind out results despite missing multiple players and having limited training days. Todd wraps up the show with the Blunder of the Week, which goes to Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich players for staying in the locker room during the FIFA Club World Cup due to heat. News: Thomas Müller Union rumors: [9:50] Tai Baribo and Jakob Glesnes selected for 2025 MLS All Stars: [18:16] Chicago Fire v Philadelphia Union: Bruno Damiani scores third goal of the season / Jeremy Rafanello's first start of the season / Eddy Davis debut / Stats from the game: [23:11] Alejandro Bedoya shines as fourth choice right back: [35:48] Jakob Glesnes' best performance of the season: [50:55] Union continue to grind results despite missing players and limited training time: [56:49] 3 Stars: [58:40] Blunder of The Week: Dortmund and Bayern Munich bench players sit in locker room cause of heat during FIFA Club World Cup: [1:00:06] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jonathan Tannenwald Article on Thomas Müller links to Union



