The New York Red Bulls will head down the turnpike to take on the Philadelphia Union in the first round of the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs.
New York and Philly split the season series this year, with each team winning on their home turf.
On June 8, in Talen Energy Stadium, the Red Bulls jumped out a two goal lead in the first half. A one-touch cross from Kyle Duncan set up Kaku for the skittering ball into the side netting for the first score of the game. Brian White flicked a bouncing ball from Alex Muyl over the keeper and two Union defenders and watched it bounce into the back of the net to double the lead before halftime.
But the tide would turn in the second half with the introduction of Ilsinho into the match. In a span of 12 minutes, the 33-year-old Brazilian assisted Philly's first goal, tied up the game with one of his own and then put the Union on top for good with a brace, rebounding a penalty attempt. The Union came away with a 3-2 victory at home off the back of a virtuoso Ilsinho performance.
The two teams met again in late September, with New York seeking revenge. Just past the half hour mark, Tom Barlow was able to clean up a big Andre Blake gaffe, blasting home a ball that got away from the Union keeper.
Daniel Royer sealed the match - and the three points - after Kaku deftly pulled down a Luis Robles service, dished to Bradley Wright-Phillips, who unselfishly passed to a wide-open Royer for the dagger. New York, who had locked up a spot in the postseason without taking the pitch earlier, put a bow on the day with a 2-0 victory.
Major League Soccer confirmed that the Red Bulls first round match of the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoffs against the Union is set for Sunday, October 20, at 3 p.m. ET, with coverage on FS1, Fox Deportes and Red Bulls Radio.
