Defence Force vs Philadelphia Union in the first leg of their 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup Round One tie, with the Caribbean side looking to make a statement against one of Major League Soccer’s strongest teams.
The match, played in Port of Spain, marks a historic first-ever meeting between the two clubs and a rare clash between the Trinidad & Tobago opposition and a top MLS contender.
For the Philadelphia Union, this fixture also represents the start of their 2026 campaign after a successful 2025 season that saw them lift the MLS Supporters’ Shield.
However, roster changes and injuries mean this is not the same side, adding an element of uncertainty heading into the tie. Defence Force, meanwhile, enter with continental pedigree and home advantage, hoping to trouble a Union side adjusting to a new-look squad.
Defence Force vs Philadelphia Union Match Info Prediction, Team News, Starting XI
| Match | Defence Force vs Philadelphia Union |
|---|---|
| Competition | CONCACAF Champions Cup |
| Date | 18 February 2026 |
| Kick-off | 23:00 UTC / 6:00 PM ET |
| Venue | Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port of Spain |
Head-to-Head
This will be the first-ever meeting between the Defence Force and the Philadelphia Union in any competition.
Team News
Defence Force Team News
- Defence Force qualified after finishing third in the 2025 Caribbean Cup.
- The Trinidad & Tobago side brings experience in continental competitions, having previously won the tournament twice (1978, 1985).
- No major confirmed injury concerns reported ahead of the first leg.
Philadelphia Union Team News
- The Union enters as the 2025 MLS Supporters’ Shield winners.
- Several squad changes from last season, including key departures, mean a slightly reshaped team.
- Injuries/absences include players like Quinn Sullivan (long-term) and others dealing with fitness issues.
- This match marks their 2026 season opener.
Defence Force vs Philadelphia Union Possible Starting XIs
Philadelphia Union
- im Curtin ki team 4-2-2-2 formation ke saath utar sakti hai.
- GK: Andre Blake
- DF: Frankie Westfield, Olwethu Makhanya, Japhet Sery Larsen, Nathan Harriel
- MF: Danley Jean Jacques, Jovan Lukić, Alejandro Bedoya, Cavan Sullivan
- FW: Milan Iloski, Ezekiel Alladoh
- Injuries: Indiana Vassilev, Finn Sundstrom.
Defence Force F.C.
- T&T ki team apne veteran players par bharosa karegi.
- GK: Jabari St. Hillaire
- DF: Isaiah Garcia, Sheldon Bateau, Curtis Gonzales, Jelani Felix
- MF: Justin Sadoo, Kevon Goddard, Kevin Molino, Hashim Arcia
- FW: Reon Moore, Jamille Boatswain
Key Players
Defence Force
- Kevin Molino — experienced attacker who can create and score; key to breaking down MLS defense.
- Sheldon Bateau — defensive leader who must organize against a strong Union attack.
Philadelphia Union
- Andre Blake — elite goalkeeper, often decisive in tight away fixtures.
- Dániel Gazdag — creative engine in midfield and a consistent goal threat.
Prediction
Philadelphia Union enter as favorites on paper due to their MLS pedigree and recent success, but away trips to the Caribbean are rarely straightforward. Defence Force’s physicality and home support could make this a competitive first leg.
However, even with squad changes, the Union’s tactical structure and quality should give them the edge over two legs.
Predicted Score: Defence Force 1–2 Philadelphia Union
Where to Watch the Defence Force vs Philadelphia Union Match
- USA: FS2, FOX Sports platforms, Prime Video
- Caribbean: SportsMax / regional broadcasters
- Global: CONCACAF GO / official streaming partners
- Always check local listings for accurate broadcast details.