NYCFC and Philadelphia Union Set for Playoff Rematch

The two Eastern Conference rivals meet again after last year's MLS Cup Playoffs clash.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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New York City FC and the Philadelphia Union will face off this weekend in a rematch of their 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs meeting. NYCFC enters the game looking to bounce back after a draw against the LA Galaxy, while the Union will be seeking revenge after losing to the Pigeons in the postseason. Both teams are dealing with lineup questions, with NYCFC needing to find a solution up front and the Union looking to build on their strong start in CONCACAF Champions Cup play.

Why it matters

This early-season matchup between two Eastern Conference powers has major implications, as both teams look to gain an advantage in the race for the playoffs. The Union will be especially motivated after their disappointing loss to NYCFC in last year's postseason, while the Pigeons need to find their scoring touch to avoid falling behind in the standings.

The details

NYCFC struggled to create chances and find the back of the net in their opening draw against the Galaxy, leading to questions about their attacking options. Meanwhile, the Union have been impressive in continental competition, routing their first-round opponent 12-0 on aggregate. Both teams will be looking to make a statement in this rematch of last year's playoff clash, which NYCFC won 1-0 despite not having a true striker in the lineup.

  • The game will be played on Sunday, March 2, 2026.
  • NYCFC and the Union last met in the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs.

The players

New York City FC

The reigning MLS Cup champions, NYCFC will be looking to bounce back from their opening-day draw and prove they can win without a true striker in the lineup.

Philadelphia Union

The Union will be seeking revenge after their playoff loss to NYCFC last year, and they'll be aiming to build on their strong start in CONCACAF Champions Cup play.

Nicolás Fernández Mercau

NYCFC's starting striker, who has faced criticism for his lack of production.

Talles Magno

A young NYCFC forward who has been the subject of calls to start up front instead of Fernández Mercau.

Maxi Moralez

The NYCFC midfielder who scored the lone goal in the team's playoff win over the Union last year.

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What they’re saying

“We must find a way to get our attack going against a tough Philadelphia team. The lack of a true striker is concerning, but we have the talent to get the job done.”

— Pascal Jansen, Head Coach, New York City FC (NYCFC Press Conference)

“Last year's playoff loss still stings, and we're eager to get some revenge this weekend. Our team is in great form, and we're ready to put on a show for our fans.”

— Jim Curtin, Head Coach, Philadelphia Union (Union Press Conference)

What’s next

The winner of this match will take an early lead in the Eastern Conference standings and gain momentum heading into the rest of the season.

The takeaway

This highly anticipated rematch between NYCFC and the Philadelphia Union will be a crucial early-season test for both teams as they look to establish themselves as contenders in the Eastern Conference. The Pigeons' ability to find a solution up front and the Union's desire for revenge will make for a thrilling matchup between two of MLS's top teams.