Philadelphia Union Rout Defence Force 5-0 in CONCACAF Champions Cup

Bruno Damiani's brace leads Union to commanding away victory

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Philadelphia Union secured an impressive 5-0 away win against Defence Force in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, with Bruno Damiani scoring twice after coming off the bench. The MLS side controlled the game from start to finish, allowing Defence Force only a single shot on target throughout the match. Damiani's late brace, including a penalty, put the result beyond doubt and capped an emphatic victory for the Union.

Why it matters

This result places the Philadelphia Union in a commanding position as they approach the second leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup tie, showcasing the strength and attacking prowess of MLS clubs in international competition. The Union's comprehensive win reflects their dominance against Defence Force and raises expectations among fans for a sustained competitive run in the tournament.

The details

Philadelphia Union's victory was powered by contributions from key players like Bruno Damiani, Milan Iloski, Ezekiel Alladoh, and Olwethu Makhanya. Frankie Westfield played a vital role, creating five chances, the most in the match, including the assist that set up Alladoh's headed goal. Iloski opened the scoring with a precise free-kick, giving the Union early control. Alladoh and Makhanya extended the lead with powerful headers, one just before halftime and the other shortly after the break. Damiani's second-half surge delivered two concluding goals after entering as a substitute, sealing the victory for Philadelphia in challenging away conditions.

  • The match was held in Trinidad & Tobago on February 19, 2026.
  • The return leg is scheduled for February 26, 2026 at Subaru Park.

The players

Bruno Damiani

A Philadelphia Union player who scored a brace, including a penalty, to seal the victory for his team.

Frankie Westfield

A Philadelphia Union player who played a vital role in the team's success, creating five chances, the most in the match.

Milan Iloski

A Philadelphia Union player who opened the scoring with a precise free-kick, giving the Union early control.

Ezekiel Alladoh

A Philadelphia Union player who extended the lead with a powerful header just before halftime.

Olwethu Makhanya

A Philadelphia Union player who scored a header shortly after the break to extend the Union's lead.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.