Philadelphia Union Vs Sporting KC: 3 things to watch for – Best vs. best

Philadelphia Union, Jim Curtin (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
Philadelphia Union, Jim Curtin (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
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REUNION, FLORIDA – JULY 14: Kacper Przybylko #23 of Philadelphia Union looks back after shooting on goal during a Group A match against Inter Miami CF as part of MLS is Back Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on July 14, 2020 in Reunion, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)
REUNION, FLORIDA – JULY 14: Kacper Przybylko #23 of Philadelphia Union looks back after shooting on goal during a Group A match against Inter Miami CF as part of MLS is Back Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on July 14, 2020 in Reunion, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images)

2. Confident words but spluttering attacks

Ahead of the matchup, players from both sides stated their confidence before Thursday’s clash. Philadelphia Union striker Kacper Pryblylko stated plainly to reporters this week:

"“Every game you win, you get more confidence. I see my team in the finals."

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When asked about the comments, SKC winger Johnny Russell replied:

"“Confident guy. You’ve still got to get through us to go there. We’ll see how that plays out.”"

Both sides seem confident ahead of the match. But has this slipped into complacency or is it the right mindset to hold? Only they truly know the answer, but both teams must look for more production offensively on Thursday.

While Alan Pulido hasn’t been poor this tournament, the big offseason DP signing has just one goal in the tournament, and that came from the penalty spot against the Rapids. He must find more success in front of goal along with more quality service from his teammates if SKC have hopes of winning the tournament.

On the other side of the coin, Philadelphia has been able to narrowly squeak out results. With five different goalscorers, they will look to find more from Pryblylko himself, who will look to add to his one goal this tournament. Pryblylko is confident in his team’s ability, of course, but he and his fellow attackers must deliver here.