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Game: Philadelphia Union vs. Montreal Impact
Date: Saturday, July 23rd
Time: 7:30 PM
Venue: Stade Saputo
Referees: REF: Ismail Elfath AR1: Corey Parker AR2: Kermit Quisenberry 4th: Silviu Petrescu
Television: TCN, Direct Kick
Streaming: MLS LIVE
What the Union will look like: Coming off of a disappointing loss to the New England Revolution in Open Cup play, expect Jim Curtin to make some small changes to the starting lineup against the Impact. After resting Keegan Rosenberry on Wednesday, he will be restored to his starting position at right back. Another possible change could be the replacement of Ken Tribbett with rookie Joshua Yaro. After Tribbett's costly giveaway led to a Revs goal, Curtin could look to give him a rest in favor of Yaro, who has looked impressive so far this year. A Fabinho, Richie Marquez, Yaro, and Rosenberry back line should be able to stifle Didier Drogba and friends. A midfield of Warren Creavalle, Tranquillo Barnetta, Chris Pontius, Roland Alberg, and Sebastien Le Toux (as Ilsinho is suspended), with CJ Sapong up top in a 4-2-3-1 formation will round out the side.
What the Impact will look like: The Impact will be looking to rebound from a 3-1 loss to New York City FC against the Union on Saturday, and Ignacio Piatti will be their main man on the offensive side of the ball. Piatti is considered by many to be the best number 10 in MLS, and for good reason, he has a combination of vision and footwork that makes him a weapon in the attacking third. When Piatti is able to connect with Harry Shipp, Dominic Oduro, and Didier Drogba in the attack Montreal are a formidable team. In the back, Laurent Ciman should be back from an ankle injury, and will probably pair up with Victor Cabrera in the center of defense. Montreal's most important players are located in the spine of the team, Ciman at center back, Piatti in the number 10 spot, and Drogba at striker, will be the main men for the Canadians on Saturday.
Prediction: I think that the Union will be entering this game with confidence, after coming from behind to tie the Red Bulls in their last league game, but a road win against a talented Montreal team might be too much to ask. The teams will split the difference just like their last meeting and tie 1-1.