Philadelphia Union gave a blow of authority in the Concachampions 2026 (officially called CONCACAF Champions Cup) after thrashing Defence Force of Trinidad and Tobago 5-0 in the first leg of the First Round, a result that leaves them with a foot and a half in the Round of 16, where they could face Club América of Mexico.
The MLS team traveled to the Caribbean and won the tie with a resounding victory. Although they dominated possession from the start, the goals ended up making the difference in the final score.
A win that brings the crossroads against América closer
The team led by Bradley Carnell imposed conditions and ended up signing a comprehensive victory thanks to goals from:
Milan Iloski (29′)
Ezekiel Alladoh (32′)
Olwethu Makhanya (64′)
Bruno Damiani (69′ and 81′)
With this result, Philadelphia Union has a virtually definitive lead in the 2026 Concachampions.
To be eliminated, Defence Force would need a 6-0 away win at Subaru Park, a highly improbable scenario considering the difference shown in the first leg.
For fans in the United States, the second leg will be key to officially confirming the crossover against América, one of Liga MX’s most winning and media-friendly clubs.
Tentative dates for possible Philadelphia vs América
If qualification is confirmed, the Round of 16 series would be played in March:
First leg: between March 10 and 11 (in Philadelphia)
Second leg: between March 17 and 18 (in Mexico)
This potential clash between Philadelphia Union and America would rekindle the historic sporting rivalry between MLS and Liga MX, one of the main attractions of the 2026 Concachampions.
MLS takes center stage in Concachampions 2026
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Philadelphia Union was not the only MLS club to take advantage in the first leg of the Concachampions 2026.
LAFC, FC Cincinnati and Nashville SC also won their respective matches.
It is shaping up to be a scenario where several U.S. teams could advance to the decisive rounds.
In recent years, MLS has increased its competitiveness in international tournaments.
This generates greater interest among soccer fans in both the United States and Mexico.
For those who live in the U.S., these types of crossings represent the opportunity to watch top-level continental matches at home without the need to travel abroad.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
