Philadelphia Union vs Columbus Crew Picks and Predictions May 10th 2025

Crew, Union Set for Heavyweight Showdown Atop the Eastern Conference

The Eastern Conference title race gets a marquee matchup on Saturday as the defending MLS Cup champion Columbus Crew visit the surging Philadelphia Union in a clash between two of the league’s top sides. Both teams are riding high, and while few expected the Philadelphia Union to be here so soon under a new coach, the stakes are already sky-high in Chester, Pa.

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Columbus Unfazed Without Cucho

After parting ways with leading scorer Cucho Hernandez in the offseason, many questioned whether Columbus (7-1-3, 24 points) could maintain its elite status. The answer? A resounding yes. With just one loss through 11 matches—a feat achieved only once before in club history—the Crew have leaned on depth, balance, and Wilfried Nancy’s well-drilled game model.

“All the goals came in different ways… we can score in many ways.”
— Wilfried Nancy, Crew Head Coach

Last week’s 4-2 win over Charlotte featured a 17-pass buildup on Jacen Russell-Rowe’s goal, a perfect encapsulation of the Crew’s fluid and patient approach. With this style clicking, they’re becoming a popular play among those analyzing MLS game predictions.

Union Charging Up the Table Under Carnell

Philadelphia (7-3-1, 22 points) has come roaring back into the spotlight this season after missing the playoffs last year. First-year coach Bradley Carnell has rejuvenated the Union, who are tied for second place in the East and riding a three-game MLS win streak.

While their midweek U.S. Open Cup match against Indy Eleven required 120 minutes and penalties, Carnell rotated his squad and remains confident in his group’s ability to recover quickly.

“We have a game model and a squad to be competitive in everything we do.”
— Bradley Carnell, Union Head Coach

The Union are hoping striker Tai Baribo, who’s tied for the league lead with seven goals, can return to form after scoring just once in his last seven outings.

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Gazdag Faces Former Team, Bender Joins the Fold

Adding intrigue to the matchup, Columbus midfielder Daniel Gazdag could face his former club for the first time since being traded from Philadelphia in April. The Union’s all-time leading scorer (59 goals) missed the last match due to injury but signed a contract extension with the Crew through 2027 earlier this week.

The Union also bolstered their roster Friday by signing midfielder Ben Bender, the former No. 1 overall draft pick waived by Charlotte FC last month.

With stars on both sides and top-of-the-table implications, this could be one of the most entertaining matches of the weekend.