Philadelphia Union Clinches 2025 MLS Supporters' Shield with 1-0 Win Over New York City FC

Philadelphia Union Wins MLS supporters' shield, earns home-field advantage in playoffs

Philadelphia Union secured the Major League Soccer Supporters' Shield after defeating New York City FC 1-0 on Saturday.

The win guarantees the Union home-field advantage throughout the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, including potential games at Subaru Park...

The Philadelphia Union made history with a 1-0 win over New York City FC, securing the MLS Supporters' Shield and solidifying their position as the top team in the regular season standings. Danish striker Mikael Uhre scored the decisive goal in the 40th minute, thanks to a cross from Jovan Lukic, which deflected off NYCFC defender Kevin O'Toole and into the net.

A 40th-minute strike from Jack Uhre proved to be the decisive factor in Philadelphia Union's 1-0 victory. The goal came after a swift counter-attack, and despite New York City's late pressure, the Union held firm to secure the win.

This win not only earned Philadelphia the top seed in the Eastern Conference but also marked a remarkable achievement for coach Bradley Carnell. Having taken over in January, Carnell led the team to the league's best record with one game to spare, showcasing his impressive impact in a short period.

“It's sweet, this has been building since match day one,” Carnell said afterwards. “These guys invested in the very beginning and they get rewarded today.

“You just have to tip your hat to everybody here at the club. It starts with the organisation, and goes all the way down, everyone pulling in the same direction. Just a fun, fun season.”

A SUPPORTERS’ SHIELD WINNING WIN 🤩#DOOP | @PennMedicine pic.twitter.com/658YXMu2zL

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) October 5, 2025

 

The win signifies a dramatic turnaround for Philadelphia Union, who missed the MLS Cup playoffs entirely last season. Under Bradley Carnell's leadership, the team has made a remarkable resurgence, securing the top spot with one game to spare.

THE SHIELD IS OURS 💙#DOOP pic.twitter.com/agXd9bGQec

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) October 5, 2025

 

“This is a winning team and it just needed to be refounded - the foundations just needed to be filed off and polished,” Carnell added.

Elsewhere in MLS on Saturday, Inter Miami returned to the winning column with a resounding 4-1 victory over New England Revolution at Fort Lauderdale's Chase Stadium. Lionel Messi was instrumental in the win, providing three assists in the match. Tadeo Allende and Jordi Alba scored two goals each, with Messi's precise passing and vision playing a significant role in Inter Miami's triumph.

Match Highlights

Tadeo Allende's Brace: Allende scored his 10th and 11th goals of the season, with Messi assisting both goals. Allende's first goal came in the 32nd minute after Messi left him in space on the right end of the box with a precise no-look pass.

Jordi Alba's Contribution: Alba doubled Inter Miami's lead just before halftime and scored his second goal in the 63rd minute, courtesy of Telasco Segovia's pass. This brought his tally to five goals in the season.

Lionel Messi's Milestone: Messi reached 40 goal contributions for the season (24 goals and 16 assists), solidifying his lead in the MLS charts.

Current Standings

Inter Miami is currently third in the Eastern Conference with 59 points, trailing Philadelphia Union by seven points. With one game left in the regular season, Philadelphia tops the conference with 66 points.