Red Bulls End Union’s Long Unbeaten Streak

Danny Jefferson | August 16, 2025

The New York Red Bulls finally put an end to years of frustration against the Philadelphia Union, pulling off a 1–0 win at Red Bull Arena on Saturday night. The result was not only three critical points for New York but also the first time they had beaten the Union in league play since 2019.

The first half was tight and physical, with both sides struggling to create many clear chances. Philadelphia looked to build through possession, while New York pressed high and disrupted their passing lanes. Andre Blake kept the Union steady early with an important save, but his night was cut short by injury, forcing teenager Andrew Rick into action in goal.

The young goalkeeper was immediately thrust into a pressure-filled environment. New York pushed forward, but the Union defense kept the hosts largely contained before the break. The match felt tense, waiting for a breakthrough moment on either side.

Philadelphia had their best chance of the game midway through the second half. Bruno Damiani was brought down in the box and awarded a penalty in the 68th minute. He stepped up to take it himself, but Carlos Coronel guessed correctly and made a sharp stop to deny his former club.

That save changed the tone of the match, and just minutes later, New York struck the decisive blow. In the 74th minute, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting slipped a clever ball into space for Dylan Nealis. The defender finished first-time into the far corner for his first MLS goal, sparking celebrations in front of the home crowd.

Philadelphia tried to answer immediately, sending more players forward in search of an equalizer. Kai Wagner came closest, bending a shot just wide of the post as the Union piled on late pressure. But the Red Bulls defense stayed organized, and Coronel commanded his area well to see out the clean sheet.

On the stat sheet, Philadelphia finished with more possession and a slight edge in total shots, but the Red Bulls made the most of their opportunities. Their ability to capitalize on the penalty save and convert their best chance ultimately proved the difference.

The win was a statement for New York, who not only ended a 16-match unbeaten streak by the Union in this rivalry but also strengthened their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race. The confidence gained from such a result could prove valuable down the stretch.

For Philadelphia, it was a night of missed chances and unwelcome setbacks. Blake’s injury status will be a major concern, and the failure to convert from the spot was a costly turning point. Still, the Union remain in postseason contention, and their response in upcoming matches will define how costly this loss becomes.

In the end, the story of the night came down to two pivotal moments: Coronel’s penalty save and Nealis’s breakthrough goal. Together they ended a long streak, reminded everyone of the fine margins in MLS, and gave New York a victory their fans had been waiting years to celebrate.