The Philadelphia Union officially made the MLS Playoffs on Saturday night without having to kick a ball. Other results across the MLS meant the Union qualified ahead of their big game against FC Cincinnati at Subaru Park on Sunday.
New York Red Bulls' win over Montreal and the Columbus Crew defeating DC United meant it became mathematically impossible for Philadelphia to finish outside the playoff places with just two games to go.
The Union currently sit in fourth place in the Eastern Conference with 50 points after 32 games. New York City FC climbed above the Union with their win against Inter Miami. Adding greater emphasis to their game in the final match of the season. With second place still in sight for Jim Curtin's men, he is likely to take both games seriously.
The Union boss was delighted with his team's achievement, having also had a gruelling CONCACAF Champions League campaign to contend with.
He said: “It is a great accomplishment to reach the playoffs and one that has become a standard for this club.
"We are now going to fight to keep a top seed in the conference and to get as many home games as possible. We greatly appreciate the fans that have stuck with us all season to get us here."
The Union have now clinched a playoff spot for the fourth successive season and the sixth in franchise history. With one more win, Philadelphia will all but confirm at least one home game in the playoffs. The New England Revolution will have a home advantage throughout after winning the Eastern Conference and the MLS Supporters Shield.
However, as Union fans will know, that does not guarantee an easy path to the final.
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