It’s no secret momentum has moved in Philly’s favor since Ryan Richter took over as the team’s interim Head Coach during the World Cup break, but this weekend’s match brings about a new hurdle. Richter has utilized the same starting XI in seven of the team’s last 11 matches, and five of his consistent starters have departed for National Team duty during the September/October FIFA Window. Four of the five starters away from the team, Cavan Sullivan, Frankie Westfield, Andre Blake, and Danley Jean Jacques have been in Richter’s starting XI in each of the team’s unbeaten matches. Neil Pierre started all but one, in which he came off the bench to score his first MLS goal. Richter’s group is otherwise healthy and available for selection.
As for Orlando City, five players have been called up to their respective national teams – Justin Ellis, Wilder Cartagena, David Brekalo, Tyrese Spicer, and Marco Pasalic will all miss this weekend’s match.