Philadelphia Union become second team to clinch a playoff spot after draw in D.C.

Clinching a playoff berth used to be something for the Philadelphia Union to celebrate. Now, it’s expected.

The Union became the second team in MLS to clinch a playoff berth Wednesday night with a 2-2 draw at D.C. United. It’s the fifth playoff berth for the team and the third straight season they’ll have additional soccer to play.

The Union have five games remaining, the same number they had left when clinching a spot in the playoffs in 2019.

Toronto FC was the first team to clinch a berth after a 1-0 win over FC Cincinnati on Sunday. Toronto remains three points clear of the Union in first place in the East and in the Supporters’ Shield race.

“We aren’t cracking any champagne like we would maybe in previous years for making the playoffs,” Curtin said post-game. “This is kind of expected this season and now we’re gonna fight for those top spots in the conference and want to get as many home games as possible.”

The Union travel to New England to play the Revolution on Monday night, and play three of their last four games at home against Toronto, Chicago and New England. Their last road game will be at Columbus.