Philadelphia Union's Benjamin Bender returns to action in CONCACAF Champions Cup

Midfielder played second half in 7-0 win after recovering from groin injury

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Philadelphia Union midfielder Benjamin Bender made his return to the pitch, playing the second half of his team's 7-0 victory over Defence Force FC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup on Thursday. Bender had been sidelined with a groin injury but is now back available for selection.

Why it matters

Bender's return is a boost for the Philadelphia Union as they look to advance in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, the premier club competition in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The 24-year-old midfielder is an important part of the Union's lineup when healthy.

The details

Bender, who has been out with a groin injury, entered the match in the second half and helped the Union cruise to a 7-0 victory over Defence Force FC, a club from Trinidad and Tobago. The win puts the Union in a strong position to advance to the next round of the tournament.

  • Bender played the second half of Thursday's match against Defence Force FC.

The players

Benjamin Bender

A 24-year-old midfielder for the Philadelphia Union who has returned to action after recovering from a groin injury.

Philadelphia Union

A professional soccer club based in Chester, Pennsylvania that competes in Major League Soccer.

Defence Force FC

A soccer club from Trinidad and Tobago that played against the Philadelphia Union in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

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What’s next

The Philadelphia Union will look to build on their 7-0 win over Defence Force FC as they continue their run in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

The takeaway

Bender's return to fitness is a timely boost for the Philadelphia Union as they aim to make a deep run in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, a prestigious continental competition.