Five thoughts on the Philadelphia Union’s scoreless draw

The 0-0 draw against Orlando City at Subaru Park Saturday night proved to be a choppy encounter, leaving Philadelphia Union fans with mixed feelings. The frustration among players was evident as they struggled to find a breakthrough and secure three points. Despite the result, the match offered some valuable insights into how the season could unfold.

1. Teams Come to Subaru Park to Sit Back and Frustrate

The recent matches against St. Louis and Orlando have revealed a clear pattern: visiting teams are arriving at Subaru Park with a defensive mindset, aiming to slow the tempo and grind out results. While this can be frustrating for Union fans who prefer a more open game, it’s a testament to the respect the Union has garnered.

Last season, the Union’s vulnerability made home games feel more dynamic, as opponents felt they could strike at any moment. This year, the team poses a more formidable offensive threat, leading visiting teams to dig in defensively rather than taking risks. As seen against Orlando, the game became chippy and intense, disrupting the Union’s attacking flow.

2. No Wagner, No Party

The absence of Kai Wagner once again left a noticeable void on the pitch. Without Wagner’s trademark overlapping runs and left-footed deliveries, the Union lacked their usual width and creativity. Replacements like Nathan Harriel and Frankie Westfield are less likely to push forward, forcing the team to recycle possession rather than delivering whipped crosses into the box.

The statistics tell the story: just one goal in two matches without Wagner highlights the impact of his absence. Without his presence on the left side, Quinn Sullivan often looked to cut inside rather than having a wide option. Until the Union find a reliable alternative for assists from the left, their attacking prowess will remain stunted.

3. Where Is Gazdag Best Suited?

As the Union’s all-time leading goal scorer, Daniel Gazdag’s quiet start to the season has raised some questions. The issue may lie in his new role. Instead of playing as a classic number 10, Gazdag has been positioned wider this season, often finding himself closer to the sideline than the box.

This adjustment doesn’t suit Gazdag’s style, as he thrives in central areas where he can combine quickly and capitalize on turnovers. His lack of pace makes it challenging to penetrate down the right side, and moving him farther from goal diminishes his scoring threat.

To maximize Gazdag’s potential, a 4-2-3-1 formation could be a better fit, positioning him more centrally and directly in front of goal. Subbing him off early against Orlando was uncharacteristic, indicating that adjustments may be needed to unlock his attacking potential.

4. Vassilev: The Depth the Union Needed

Indiana Vassilev continues to impress, despite limited appearances so far. His versatility and willingness to take control of the game were on full display against Orlando, where his composure and ball control provided a much-needed spark.

Vassilev’s ability to play both centrally and on the right offers the Union a flexible option off the bench or in the starting lineup. His willingness to make things happen, regardless of his role, will be crucial as the season progresses. Fans will soon appreciate the value he brings, much like Jack McGlynn, though Vassilev’s versatility sets him apart.

5. Solid Defensive Foundation

Despite the lack of goals, the Union’s defensive solidity was a positive takeaway. Last season, they were often challenged at home, but this match demonstrated a more composed and confident approach. Maintaining this defensive stability will be vital as they prepare to face NYCFC next week in another typically intense clash.