The Free Kick podcast

50:36

The Philadelphia Union took care of business, beating D.C. United by a score of 3-0 thanks to goals from Jakob Glesnes, Danley Jean Jacques, and Bruno Damiani. With the win, the Union end a two-game home stand against Atlanta United and D.C. United, collecting the maximum possible six points. Todd is joined by José Nuñez to talk about the win, and they discuss several topics: getting goals from players other than strikers, winning against teams they should beat, and whether there is any concern about a lack of chance creation. Philadelphia Union v D.C. United: Any concern with lack of chance creation the last couple of games: [5:37] Getting goals from other players that aren't the forwards: [21:36] Union winning against teams they should beat: [36:44] Quinn Sullivan interest: [43:37] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/…

The Free Kick

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Episode 349 - Philadelphia Union Cruise to 3-0 Win Over Atlanta United 1:11:47

7 days ago1:11:47

1:11:47

The Philadelphia Union ended a three-game winless streak with a 3-0 win over Atlanta United, with Quinn Sullivan, Danley Jean Jacques, and Tai Baribo scoring. Todd is joined by José Nuñez to discuss Quinn Sullivan's inclusion in MLS' Team of the Matchday for Week 9 and share their thoughts on the Atlanta game, with topics including Bradley Carnell's makeshift backline, Mikael Uhre starting over Tai Baribo, the Union's game plan against Atlanta, and Andre Blake picking up his 100th clean sheet for the Union. MLS News: Philadelphia Union to face Indy Eleven in US Open Cup: [6:55] Quinn Sullivan named to MLS Team of The Matchday 9: [16:25] Philadelphia Union v Atlanta United: Union backline - Westfield, Glesnes, Harriel, Wagner: [20:52] Andre Blake keeps third clean sheet of the season / 100th career Union career clean sheet: [28:19] Bradley Carnell starts Mikael Uhre over Tai Baribo: [39:06] Union’s Offensive Performance: [52:16] Three Stars: [1:00:47] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ José Nuñez High School Playoff Goal VOYCENOW Foundation and the Goalies for Good Initiative - Andre Blake Jersey…

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Episode 348 - Philadelphia Union Fall 1-0 to NYCFC, Winless in Four of Last Five 56:04

14 days ago56:04

56:04

The Philadelphia Union fell to NYCFC by a score of 1-0, leaving the Union winless in four of their last five games. The biggest storyline from the game was Andre Blake's absence from the matchday squad due to an adductor injury, which meant Andrew Rick started his second game of the season. Todd discusses his thoughts on the game, covering topics including: the attack's recent struggles, a costly defensive mistake by another Union centerback, and the Union's current winless run. Finally, Todd ends the show with Blunder of the Week, awarded to Kylian Mbappé for his tackle on Alavés' Antonio Blanco. NYCFC v Philadelphia Union: Andre Blake out of matchday squad due to adductor injury, should Union fans be concerned: [8:26] Olivier Mbaizo out of the matchday squad for first time this season with hamstring injury: [17:21] A draw would've been suitable: [22:09] What's happened to the Union's attack: [37:04] Another costly centerback mistake: [45:42] Blunder of The Week: Mbappe challenge on Antonio Blanco: [51:36] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/…

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Episode 347 - Philadelphia Union Trade Dániel Gazdag To Columbus Crew 1:21:25

19 days ago1:21:25

1:21:25

The Philadelphia Union shocked the MLS world when Tom Bogert first reported that the Columbus Crew had agreed to a deal with the Union to acquire Dániel Gazdag. Todd is joined by José Nuñez to discuss the deal and what it means for the Union’s future plans. First reaction when it was announced Gazdag would be traded between Philadelphia Union and Columbus Crew: [3:48] Other MLS Cash For Trade Deals: [18:27] Union Open Up DP Spot, Can Select Two DPs, 4 U22s in Summer: [36:32] Comparing Gazdag to Other 10s in MLS: [46:24] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/…

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Episode 346 - Ian Glavinovich Tears His Meniscus In 0-0 Draw Against Orlando City 55:29

21 days ago55:29

55:29

After beating Orlando City 4-2 in Week One of MLS play, the league's two highest-scoring teams played to a 0-0 draw at Subaru Park in Week Seven. The result puts the Union in third place in the Eastern Conference with a 4-2-1 record. Todd shares his thoughts on the draw, covering topics such as Orlando City's game plan, Frankie Westfield starting at right back while Nathan Harriel plays at left back, Bradley Carnell's substitution choices, and Ian Glavinovich tearing his meniscus—and what that injury means for the Union moving forward. Todd also discusses the Blunder of the Week, which involved James Tarkowski’s challenge on Alexis Mac Allister. Philadelphia Union v Orlando City: MLS' two highest scoring teams heading into the game: [5:32] Union starting XI (Damiani in for Uhre, Westfield right and Harriel left): [9:07] Carnell's sub choices/playing Uhre as a lone striker: [23:20] Orlando City's game plan: [33:38] Ian Glavinovich tears meniscus: [43:33] Blunder of The Week: James Tarkowski Challenge on Alexis Mac Allister: [50:09] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/…

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Episode 345 - Missed Chances Cost Union A Point Against Inter Miami 1:26:58

30 days ago1:26:58

1:26:58

The Philadelphia Union found themselves down 2-0 against Miami before Dániel Gazdag brought the score within one. Todd is joined by José Nuñez to discuss the Union's second loss in three games with topics including: The Union's starting XI, which included no Kai Wagner in the matchday squad with an abdominal injury, Union couldn't convert their chances, and are Chris Donovan's days numbered with the Union? Finally, Todd discusses Blunder of The Week, which includes the unprofessional question asked to Miami head coach Javier Mascherano. Inter Miami v Philadelphia Union: Messi scores his fourth career goal against the Union: [5:46] More than just Messi and Cavan Sullivan in MLS: [10:56] Is MLS doing enough during Messi's tenure: [19:46] Union's starting XI: [21:16] Bradley Carnell's substitutions: [37:29] Union had chances, couldn't convert: [50:23] Chris Donovan's time is ticking: [1:01:28] Blunder of The Week: Brandon Marshall's question at Inter Miami press conference / Inter Miami's lack of communication: [1:09:12] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Lionel Messi scores moments into Inter Miami return Reading United AC 2025 Kits and Foundation Launch…

The Free Kick

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Episode 344 - Union Get A Goal From An Unlikely Player in 1-0 Win Over St. Louis CITY 1:00:17

5 weeks ago1:00:17

1:00:17

The Philadelphia Union got a big goal from Ian Glavinovich off a Kai Wagner corner kick as they defeated St. Louis CITY 1-0. With that win, the Union have started 2025 with a 4-1-0 record in five MLS matches, tying their highest point total (12) in their first five games, which they set in 2022. Todd discusses Saturday night's victory and talks: Nathan Harriel shines unique role, Jakob Glesnes stepping up from last week's performance against Nashville, and the Union's depth getting the job done. Todd also shares his three stars of the night and the Blunder of the Week. Philadelphia Union v St. Louis CITY: Union dominate in the first half / must win game against St. Louis CITY / Alejandro Bedoya update: [3:03] Union depth steps up: [14:47] Nathan Harriel shines in a unique role: [28:18] Jakob Glesnes bounces back from Nashville performance: [33:56] Three Stars: [46:12] Blunder of The Week: João Klauss bumps into Bradley Carnell after the game: [55:15] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Bradley Carnell and João Klauss "Moment" [Picture Only] Berhalter Ball - José Nuñez’s latest MLS Article…

The Free Kick

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Episode 343 - Reunion Weekend: Vassilev & Carnell Face Their Former Club (feat. Matt Baker) 50:25

6 weeks ago50:25

50:25

It's reunion weekend for Philadelphia Union head coach Bradley Carnell and midfielder Indiana Vassilev, as the duo is set to face off against their former club, St. Louis CITY, this Saturday. Todd is joined by Flyover Footy host and contributor to Big 550 KTRS and CITYSC Report, Matt Baker, to discuss this weekend's first-ever matchup between Philadelphia Union and St. Louis CITY. Todd and Matt discuss: Carnell's time in St. Louis: [4:43] What went right and what went wrong: [9:40] Does Bradley Carnell really believe in playing the young kids: [14:22] Is Carnell's style sustainable: [17:25] Indiana Vassilev's two-season stay in St. Louis and what he brings to the table for the Union: [22:30] The new acquisitions made by St. Louis this offseason: [32:43] St. Louis' stingy defense, as they are the only club yet to concede in MLS this season: [36:35] St. Louis' attack, which started slow but has now scored in back-to-back games: [42:09] Injury updates/International Break: [45:00] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Matt's Social Media: Twitter: @FlyoverFooty Twitter: @MattBakerSTL https://linktr.ee/flyoverfooty…

The Free Kick

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Episode 342 - Penalties, Non Penalty, Flying Hotdogs And A Red Card 57:17

6 weeks ago57:17

57:17

The Philadelphia Union fell to Nashville SC by a score of 3-1, marking their first loss of the season. The game was full of controversy, including a non-penalty call and two penalties given. Todd and José Nuñez discusses the latest news, including Marlon LeBlanc coaching the USYNT U18s and Kai Wagner and Jovan Lukić earning Team of the Matchday honors for Matchday 3. He shares his thoughts on the game against Nashville, analyzing the defensive mistakes, the lack of chances created, and the controversial calls. Todd also highlights the Blunder of the Week, which includes the behavior of Philadelphia Union fans during the game. News: Marlon LeBlanc to coach USYNT U18 Camp: [2:37 Kai Wagner and Jovan Lukić named to Team of The Matchday 3 team: [5:20] Philadelphia Union v Nashville SC: Time to see what this team is about: [5:58] Union lacked any real clear cut chances: [14:45] Nashville were more physical than the Union: [20:21] Defensive Mistakes: Jakob Glesnes at the forefront of all three goals conceded: [24:41] International Duty / Ian Glavinovich injury update: [31:12] Controversial Referee Decisions: [38:58] Blunder of The Week: Philadelphia Union fans throwing hot dogs on field: [48:42] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/…

The Free Kick

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Episode 341 - Union Start 3-0 For First Time In Club History 1:19:24

7 weeks ago1:19:24

1:19:24

The Philadelphia Union have started the season 3-0 for the first time in club history, as the Union defeated the New England Revolution by a score of 2-0, thanks to goals by Tai Baribo and Jovan Lukić. Todd is joined by Mark Kelkenberg and José Nuñez to discuss Saturday night's victory, with topics including Tai Baribo's hot start — could that mean a potential move in the future? — the Union's away record since 2022, the Union's defensive adjustments in three games, and the Danley Jean Jacques and Jovan Lukić partnership. Todd, Mark and José also share their three stars of the match, and Todd gives his Blunder of the Week for what he calls the worst penalty call of all time. Signing players that fit Bradley Carnell's system: [2:08] MLS News: Tai Baribo, Quinn Sullivan and Bradley Carnell named to Team of The Matchday 2: [14:49] New England Revolution v Philadelphia Union: Tai Baribo continues hot form/could he potentially be transferred: [16:11] Could Olivier Mbaizo be on the trade block: [28:15] What would it take to keep MLS players in MLS: [33:56] Defensive adjustment/Union roads form: [36:38] Danley Jean Jacques and Jovan Lukić partnership: [55:24] Blunder of The Week: Penalty in the GKS Wikielec v Legia II Warszawa (Poland Fourth division game): [1:10:16] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Mark's Social Media: Twitter: @MarkKelkenberg YouTube: @KelkenSport https://kelkensport.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Sage Hurley’s Post Game Interview With Jovan Lukić Same Interview For Those Who Don't Have Twitter…

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Episode 340 - Baribo Scores Hat Trick As Union Dominate Cincy 1:02:13

8 weeks ago1:02:13

1:02:13

The Philadelphia Union are 2-0 to start the season for only the second time in club history, with the first coming during the 2011 season. The Union's attack continues its red-hot form, having scored four goals in consecutive weeks, with Tai Baribo leading the way with five, including a hat trick against Cincinnati! Todd and José Nuñez discusses the latest Philadelphia Union news, including MLS releasing clubs' spring roster profiles. They breaks down their thoughts from the game against Cincinnati, covering topics such as the attack’s form, a Nathan Harriel update, Jovan Lukić and Danley Jean Jacques bossing the midfield, and whether the Union can sustain this style of play throughout the season. Todd and José also highlights their three stars of the night and discuss Todd's Blunder of the Week. MLS News: MLS Roster Profiles for Spring 2025: [3:54] Philadelphia Union v FC Cincinnati: Attack’s Form – Baribo on fire: [9:57] Lukić & Jean Jacques dominate the midfield: [27:18] Nathan Harriel Update: [39:21] Can the Union sustain this style all season: [44:34] Three Stars of the Night: [49:56] Blunder of The Week: Houston Dynamo "apology" for Messi not showing up: [53:31] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Tai Baribo off to landmark start to season with Philadelphia Union…

The Free Kick

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Episode 339 - Harriel, Vassilev & Damiani Ready for Union’s Test vs. Cincinnati (feat. Justin Blair) 53:54

9 weeks ago53:54

53:54

The Philadelphia Union look to continue their winning ways as FC Cincinnati comes to town for the Union's 2025 home opener—Bradley Carnell's first match in charge at Subaru Park. Todd is joined by Justin Blair of Cincinnati Soccer Talk to preview the matchup between these two teams. Topics include availability reports on Nathan Harriel, Indiana Vassilev, Bruno Damiani, Sergio Santos, and Luca Orellano; Cincinnati's busy offseason, moving on from Lucho Acosta but bringing in Kevin Denkey and Evander; Cincinnati's hot start to the season; their struggles against a Red Bulls-style of play; and the last few meetings between the Union and Cincinnati. Player availability: [4:56] FC Cincinnati's busy offseason: [10:14] FC Cincinnati start season off strong: [28:36] Last few meetings with Philadelphia and Cincinnati: [33:40] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Justin's Social Media: Twitter: @_jeblair Twitter: @CincySoccerTalk https://cincinnatisoccertalk.com/…

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Episode 338 - Philadelphia Union Dominate Orlando: Baribo’s Brace & Carnell’s Winning Debut 1:04:15

9 weeks ago1:04:15

1:04:15

The Philadelphia Union started the Bradley Carnell era with a bang, defeating Orlando City 4-2 on the opening night of MLS. Four players made their Philadelphia Union debut, and Andre Blake appeared in his 300th game for the club across all competitions. Todd recaps the game and discusses the 4-2-2-2 formation and where the Union found success, Frankie Westfield's stellar debut, the three stars of the night, the Union's trade for Indiana Vassilev, and Blunder of the Week: believing faceless accounts spreading fake transfer rumors. News: Official: Philadelphia Union Acquires Indiana Vassilev From St. Louis CITY For $1M in GAM: [4:03] Orlando City v Philadelphia Union: Olwethu Makhanya, Frankie Westfield, Jovan Lukić and Ian Glavinovich Make Their Debut: [11:55] Andre Blake Makes His 300th Appearance For The Club: [15:10] Too Many Shots Concede / Breaking Down The Goals Conceded: [26:00] 4-2-2-2 Formation / Union's Attack: [32:25] Frankie Westfield Stars on His Debut: [45:30] Three Stars: [54:00] Blunder of The Week: The AP's glaring mistakes in their Union Review write up: [57:17] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ [Indiana Vassilev Thoughts on Bradley Carnell - KMOX Sports] YouTube Link…

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Episode 337 - What Are The Union Getting In Bruno Damiani (feat. Daniel Solana) 41:20

10 weeks ago41:20

41:20

With the signing of Bruno Damiani now official, Todd and José Nuñez are joined by Daniel Solana of ARRIBA BOLSO to discuss what Damiani brings to the Philadelphia Union and MLS overall. Daniel brings a wealth of experience as part of the media covering Uruguay’s Nacional and discusses Bruno’s time with the Primera División giants, as well as his loan spell at Boston River last season. Todd and José also analyze the Union's overall roster and what moves need to be made to comply with MLS's February 21 deadline. Bruno Damiani's playing style: [4:55] Who's a good comparison in MLS to Damiani: [10:56] Damiani's transfer market value compared to what the Union actually paid: [11:57] Adjusting to stadium sizes in MLS: [20:50] Damiani's rise through Nacional's academy: [22:57] Union's squad age / getting roster compliant: [30:40] Social Media: Twitter: @FreeKickPod Instagram: @FreeKickPod Facebook: @FreeKickPod YouTube: The Free Kick https://thefreekick.substack.com/ Jose's Social Media: Twitter: @JoserNunez91 https://nunezj.substack.com/ Daniel's Social Media: Twitter: @danisolana5 https://www.arribabolso.com/…

The Free Kick

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Episode 336 - Union To Sign Bruno Damiani From Nacional 1:02:44

11 weeks ago1:02:44