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

By Nathan Dunn

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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LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL – JULY 20: Brenden Aaronson #22 of the Philadelphia Union dribbles the ball during a game between Orlando City SC and Philadelphia Union at Wide World of Sports on July 20, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. (Photo by Jeremy Reper/ISI Photos/Getty Images).
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL – JULY 20: Brenden Aaronson #22 of the Philadelphia Union dribbles the ball during a game between Orlando City SC and Philadelphia Union at Wide World of Sports on July 20, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. (Photo by Jeremy Reper/ISI Photos/Getty Images). /

1. Battle of the Best

This matchup will be a battle between arguably two of the top three teams left in the competition. With LAFC pretty much looking the clear-cut favorite to win the tournament, the Philadelphia Union and Sporting KC are in the mix for the next-best teams in the draw.

Sporting KC may have to handle the Union without Khiry Shelton, who is listed as questionable. An essential part of SKC’s attack, the former Paderborn forward has returned into Peter Vermes’ side as a key point in the attacking transformation of Sporting KC by making intelligent runs and movements to open up opportunities. However, even if he is unable to partake in the match, Alan Pulido with Gerso Fernandes on the left and Johnny Russell on the right will comprise an excellent front three.

The Union bring a more balanced approach to the match. Still yet to face defeat this tournament, they have conceded just two goals in four matches while scoring five times. Still looking to get their offense sharpened up, Philadelphia have still been among the most impressive teams this tournament under manager Jim Curtin. Curtin will feel confident that his strong defense, anchored by Mark McKenzie and Jack Elliott, can keep the SKC attack at least somewhat quiet.

Next. MLS is Back: Ranking the four quarter-finals. dark

These are two of the best teams in MLS in 2020. They will have hopes of competing for the eventual MLS is Back title. But first, they must get past the other. This could be a true battle of the best.

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