Daniel Gazdag came back to Chester, but on the opposite side of the line. Subaru Park welcomes this Saturday one of those games that turn around, break hearts, and on top of everything, decide the MLS Eastern Conference lead. Philadelphia Union and Columbus Crew are separated by just two thin points, 24 to 22. A match that pits the greatest start in Union history against the near-impossible consistency of the Crew. And in the middle, Gazdag, Philadelphia's all-time leading scorer, returns for the first time as a visitor. Could anything be more symbolic?
Union is gaining momentum and causing fear, even without its idol
Gazdag was purchased last month for up to $4.5 million and is a highly valued asset to the Crew's rotation. Union, on the other hand, is riding a four-game winning streak and its best start in 11-game history. With 22 points and a better goal difference against the visitor (11 to 8), the home team knows that a win this weekend would push them to the top position and prove that losing their top scorer did not weaken the team.
Philadelphia is coming in confident. With wins over Atlanta United, DC United, and CF Montreal, the team achieved another win over Indy Eleven in the US Open Cup. That brings the home wins for the team to five for the season so far. Not only did the team respond well to Gazdag's departure, it also found leaders again. Tai Baribo is in great form and now leads the chase for the Audi Golden Boot on seven goals. Quinn Sullivan, who graduated through the academy, has also established himself as a midfield mainstay and has already provided one goal and six assists.
Columbus Crew still undefeated on the road
Columbus Crew are not conference leaders for nothing. The team has 24 points, one defeat in 11 games, and an attack bolstered by the boots of Diego Rossi. The Uruguayan is having an MVP-level season: six goals and a solitary assist, with performances that count. Led off the field by Landon Donovan and on the field by Wilfried Nancy.
The Crew comes into the field with less pressure. They're on top, playing solidly, and have already demonstrated they know how to win on the road. The mission this Saturday is to cool Union's fervor and take advantage of any emotional weaknesses the game presents. The team knows the significance of a game like this.