The 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup continued in historic fashion as Defence Force FC hosted the Philadelphia Union in the first leg of their Round One series at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain. The occasion marked the first meeting between the two clubs and a significant milestone for both; it was the first time Defence Force had faced opposition from the United States, and the first time the Union had played a team from Trinidad and Tobago.
Bermudian interest was high as FIFA Assistant Referee Clinton Hayward was on hand in Trinidad to assist in officiating the high-profile match. On the pitch, however, it was the Major League Soccer side that asserted their authority, securing a comprehensive 5-0 victory to take a commanding lead into the second leg.
The Philadelphia Union took control of the contest in the 29th minute through a moment of individual brilliance. Milan Iloski opened the scoring by smashing a sensational free kick from outside the box that left the Defence Force goalkeeper with no chance. The visitors doubled their advantage just three minutes later as Ezekial Alladoh connected with a precise cross from Frankie Westfield to head home.
The Union continued their relentless pressure in the second half, effectively putting the tie out of reach in the 64th minute. Iloski once again proved to be the architect, whipping in a dangerous corner kick for Olwethu Makhanya, who rose highest to bury another header. With five goals on the night, Philadelphia have all but secured their place in the next round, leaving the Trinidadian champions with a monumental task ahead for the return leg.
|
