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The Chicago Fire will finally open their 2024 season tomorrow when they take on the star-studded Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park, a place they haven't won in over a decade. To help preview the big game, we spoke to Union beat reporter José Núñez, who answered our questions about the team from the City of Brotherly Love.
Chicago and Philadelphia faced off in two competitive duels in the early portion of last season. How different does the Union team look compared to previous years?
To be frank, not very different at all. The Union are running it back once again. In fact, they have probably lost more first-team depth due to the departures of Perea and Torres over this past offseason. So, the Union's patented low possession and fast counter-attacking approach is going to be similar to years past.
A Julián Carranza hattrick fuelled a comeback 3-2 win over Saprissa midweek. How will the Concacaf matchup impact preparations for Saturday’s game?
No one expected the Union to walk into "La Cueva" in Costa Rica and have an easy bout with Saprissa. However, I don't believe anyone expected a freak own goal by Jakob Glesnes, an injury scare with Andre Blake, and one of the worst performances from José Martínez ever to happen during the same match.
Fortunately for Philadelphia, Julián Carranza saved the day, but probably at the expense of having to run players to the last minute instead of securing a victory early.
Philadelphia has been one of the most consistent teams in MLS over the last few seasons, both in level and style of play. How will Jim Curtin’s team approach the game this weekend?
Jim Curtin will do Jim Curtin things and not change a bit. His approach has worked for over the last four to five years, with the same high pressure, starting with Carranza, Gazdag, and Uhre. A no-nonsense approach from José Martínez, and some long runs and crosses by Kai Wagner, who was just announced as being available for the weekend.
Cory Burke was a constant threat against the Fire in years past when he played for the Union. Which player could be the “x-factor” for the Union on opening day?
Hard to be in any better form after scoring a second-half hat-trick against the best Costa Rican team at one of the most hostile CONCACAF venues, so expect Julián Carranza to be the lifeblood of the Union. Last year, he was the striker with the most fouls committed last year, something that Curtin appreciates and displays just how well he plays the role of the first line of defense. His finishing is exquisite when given decent service. So, expect the Argentine to be the one to propel this team through a tough early schedule.
