Three keys to a Philadelphia Union victory against Toronto FC

1.) Watch for the mismatch: Last year, Toronto FC had a field day against the Union. They lined Sebastian Giovinco up on their left (the Philadelphia Union’s right) and Jozy Altidore on their right (Union’s left). This put Giovinco up against Keegan Rosenberry and Ken Tribbett and Altidore up against Fabinho and Richie Marquez. The Union will need to avoid these scenarios, instead looking to either force the TFC forwards to cross and putting the physical Oguchi Onyewu up against Altidore and giving Giovinco to Marquez, or force the Toronto forwards – especially Giovinco -out wide toward the full backs.

2.) The atmosphere at Talen Energy Stadium: Yes, it’s going to be cold. But with the fans in full throat behind the Union it will certainly give the club a lift. There’s all sorts of new amenities at the stadium, including some fantastic artwork that continue the rich tradition of the City of Philadelphia’s own murals.

3.) Someone has to score: It will be almost impossible to keep Toronto off of the board. They’re too talented to be held scoreless very often, and they’ll be looking to come back from a 0-0 draw against Real Salt Lake. Whether it’s Jay Simpson, Alejandro Bedoya, Chris Pontius, or someone else, the Union will almost have to score in order to get any points today.