Montreal takes on Philadelphia Union at Stade Saputo
Only six games to go in the regular season, and things cannot be tighter out in the East. Now back from the international break, CF Montréal will take on the Philadelphia Union, this Saturday at Stade Saputo at 1pm, in a game presented by Allstate Insurance. You can purchase tickets for the game here.
Wilfried Nancy’s men went into the break following a huge win over Atlanta United, a win that allowed them to jump over the Georgian representatives and back into a playoff spot. CF Montréal is currently seventh in the Eastern Conference, while Saturday’s opponent sits five points ahead in third.
With just eight points separating third from ninth in the conference, it’s looking more and more likely that the playoff race will be decided on Decision Day.
“There’s a lot of excitement, a desire to face this challenge head on,” explained head coach Wilfried Nancy. “That’s what I’m feeling from the group. They’re the ones who have written this story. I gave them a direction, and they followed the path. They know this is the final stretch and they simply want it to start, so that they can do their best and go as far as possible.”
This final stretch of the regular season starts with a stiff test against the Union. Montreal put up a good performance the last time these two met in Philadelphia, although they conceded late and settled for the draw. Head coach Jim Curtin’s men are currently on a good stretch, unbeaten in their last five MLS games.
“They play with a system I like, because it causes the opponent lots of issues in terms of creating man advantages. We’ll have to adjust to counter that. They’re a very direct team and they’re very good at playing that way. I love these games because the players are obligated to go out of their comfort zones and focus on the moment.”
Injury update
Head coach Wilfried Nancy gave us an update on the status of forward Romell Quioto, who suffered an injury following his two-goal performance against Atlanta before the break. Although he won’t be available Saturday, the coach hopes to see him back with the squad as of next week.
“Hopefully he’ll be with the team next week,” said Nancy. “We’ll see, but we have a chance to have him back early, but we’ll have to wait and see.”