Philadelphia Union Survive Indy Eleven Scare in U.S. Open Cup Thriller

May 7, 2025 – Chester, PA
In a dramatic Round of 32 clash at Subaru Park, the Philadelphia Union narrowly escaped an upset against USL Championship side Indy Eleven, advancing 5–4 on penalties after a 1–1 draw through regulation and extra time.

Bedoya Opens the Scoring Early

The Union got off to a dream start when captain Alejandro Bedoya headed home a pinpoint cross from Olivier Mbaizo in the 6th minute. It was a vintage finish from the veteran midfielder, giving Philadelphia early control of the match.

Indy Eleven Fight Back

Despite being the underdogs, Indy Eleven came out strong in the second half. Just three minutes after the break, forward Elvis Amoh found the equalizer, finishing off a slick move that stunned the home crowd and swung the momentum.

Extra Time & Goalkeeper Heroics

Neither side could break the deadlock through extra time, but the match was far from dull. Union’s teenage goalkeeper Andrew Rick and Indy’s Reice Charles-Cook both came up huge, with Charles-Cook making 10 saves on the night to keep his team alive.

Penalty Shootout Drama

The shootout was tense. Both teams converted their first two spot kicks, but it was Rick’s clutch save on Aodhan Quinn’s attempt that made the difference. The Union converted all five of their penalties, booking their spot in the Round of 16 and avoiding a major cup upset.

Final Thoughts

It wasn’t the cleanest performance from Philadelphia, but credit goes to Indy Eleven for pushing an MLS side to the brink. The Union move on, but the warning signs are there—Cup dreams are fragile, and on a night like this, anything can happen.