Podcast
The Free Kick
Maryland's Number One Philadelphia Union Podcast! The Free Kick is a weekly podcast hosted by Todd Lewis and José Nuñez, in which they are joined by weekly guests that include MLS commentators and journalists from around the league. Each week consists of match previews, reviews, and news and rumors from around the league!
- Episodes
- 472
- Releases
- Twice a week
- Typical length
- 1 hr 16 min
- On air since
- 2019
- Latest episode
- 1 day ago
Episodes
472 episodes, newest first
-
1 hr 16 min
Episode 447 - Should There Be Concern That Union Are Winless in Their Last Three
Season 1, Episode 447
Show notes
The Philadelphia Union have now gone three consecutive games without a win after falling 1-0 to FC Cincinnati, a result that guarantees the Union can finish no higher than sixth place in the Eastern Conference. Todd and José discuss the latest Union news, including a New York Times article on Holden Trent, Neil Pierre's new contract, and Jack McGlynn's continued success in the English Championship with Stoke City. They also share their thoughts on the loss to Cincinnati, with topics including whether there is reason for concern about the Union's recent form and which players took advantage of the opportunities created by the team's injuries and suspensions. Finally, Todd hands out Blunder of the Week to Ramses Sandoval and Miguel Gallardo for their comments about Kai Wagner.
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
https://www.goal13foundation.org
The extraordinary life of Holden Trent, who defied the odds to play the sport he loved
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1 hr 18 min
Episode 446 - Union Pick Up Surprising Point Against Nashville (feat. Nate Bukaty)
Season 1, Episode 446
Show notes
In what many would consider a shock result, the Philadelphia Union picked up a point against Supporters' Shield winners Nashville SC on a night that saw the Union officially clinch a playoff spot. Todd discusses his thoughts on the game with topics including: Ezekiel Alladoh and Malik Jakupovic partnership, the Union's strong defensive performance, and clinching a playoff spot with two games to go. MLS play-by-play commentator Nate Bukaty joins to help preview Saturday's FC Cincinnati v Philadelphia Union game.
Nashville v Philadelphia Union
•
Ezekiel Alladoh and Malik Jakupovic partnership: [8:52]
•
Union's strong defensive performance: [35:05]
FC Cincinnati v Philadelphia Union Preview:
•
Union's turnaround under Ryan Richter: [55:54]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
Nate's Social Media:
Twitter: @nate_bukaty
Instagram: @natebukaty
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1 hr 14 min
Episode 445 - Union Suffer First Loss Since May 24 in 2-1 Loss to New England
Season 1, Episode 445
Show notes
The Philadelphia Union's 15 game unbeaten run has finally come to an end with a 2-1 loss to New England Revolution. Todd discusses the latest MLS news that includes MLS' 2026 22 Under 22 and Bruno Damiani named to Uruguay's preliminary roster. Todd also gives his thought's on the Union's loss with topics including: Chance creation without Cavan Sullivan, Union's lack of depth, and Kai Wagner calls out teammates. Finally, Blunder of the week goes to the dumpster fire that is Manchester United.
News:
•
MLS 22 Under 22: [3:30]
•
Bruno Damiani named to Uruguay preliminary roster: [8:30]
Philadelphia Union v New England Revolution:
•
Andre Blake makes six saves: [16:18]
•
Union concede preventable goes again: [19:07]
•
Union's chance creation without Cavan Sullivan: [26:22]
•
Union's lack of depth: [36:42]
•
Kai Wagner calls out teammates: [51:36]
Blunder of The Week:
•
Manchester United are a dumpster fire: [1:01:54]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
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1 hr 20 min
Episode 444 - Union Extend Unbeaten Streak to 15 with 2-2 Draw Against Charlotte
Season 1, Episode 444
Show notes
Philadelphia Union drew against Charlotte 2-2, which sees there 8-game winning run come to an end, but their unbeaten run continues to 15. Todd and José discuss their thoughts from the game including: playoff like atmosphere, Union concede preventable goals, should Bruno Damiani have come off with his prior head injury. And finally, Todd discuss Blunder of The Week which goes to maybe the worst penalty kick ever?
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
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1 hr 14 min
Episode 443 - Bruno Damiani & Milan Iloski Lead Union to 3-1 Win Over Chicago (feat. Jessica Charman)
Season 1, Episode 443
Show notes
The Philadelphia Union continue to roll, defeating the Chicago Fire by a score of 3–1 behind a brace from Bruno Damiani and Milan Iloski's 18th goal of the season. The Union extended their unbeaten streak to 14 games, including a current eight-game winning streak. Todd and José discuss their takeaways from the game, including Bruno Damiani and Milan Iloski's continued success, whether Iloski should be a DP, injury updates on Danley Jean Jacques, and Ryan Richter's tactics against a 10-man team. Finally, MLS play-by-play commentator Jessica Charman joins the show to preview Saturday's match against Charlotte FC.
Chicago Fire v Philadelphia Union:
•
Danley Jean Jacques injury update: [7:20]
•
Bruno Damiani and Milan Iloski can't stop scoring: [15:12]
•
Should Milan Iloski be a designated player: [29:03]
•
Ryan Richter's tactics against 10-man Chicago Fire: [1:04:38]
Philadelphia Union v Charlotte FC Preview:
•
Charlotte's 2026 form: [41:27]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
Jess' Social Media:
Twitter: @JessTalksFootie
Instagram: @jesstalksfootie
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1 hr 24 min
Episode 442 - Union Extend Unbeaten Run to 13 with 2-1 Win Over Real Salt Lake
Season 1, Episode 442
Show notes
Philadelphia Union extended their unbeaten run to 13 with a 2-1 win over Real Salt Lake with goals from Bruno Damiani and Milan Iloski. Todd and José share their thoughts from the game with topics including: the chemistry between Bruno Damiani and Milan Iloski, Union's defensive efforts, and how much longer could this streak go on for? Finally, Todd discusses Blunder of The Week which goes to Manuel Neuer and Matt Freese.
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
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44 min
Episode 441 - What Kind of Impact Will USMNT Call Up Have on Union Trio (feat. Chris Wittyngham)
Season 1, Episode 441
Show notes
After recently returning to Philadelphia Union will their time away with the USMNT, Cavan Sullivan, Frankie Westfield and Neil Pierre look to continue to build on their impressive seasons as the Philadelphia Union host Real Salt Lake on Saturday. Todd is joined by MLS commentator Chris Wittyngham to talk about Cavan Sullivan's form since post World Cup, when did Chris realize the Union were a good team, would it be best for the Union to lose now before the playoffs and previewing Saturday's game against RSL.
• What will USMNT do for Cavan's confidence: [5:45]
• What moment did Chris realize the Union are a good team: [8:26]
• Would it be best if Union lost a game now before playoffs: [13:56]
• Real Salt Lakes form: [17:15]
• What will USMNT do for Frankie Westfield and Neil Pierre: [22:33]
• Will the Union play down to their opponent: [30:33]Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
Chris' Social Media:
Twitter: @ChrisWittyngham
Instagram: @chriswittyngham
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1 hr 7 min
Episode 440 - Philadelphia Union Acquire Mark McKenzie
Season 1, Episode 366
Show notes
The Philadelphia Union announced that they have re-acquired defender Mark McKenzie, with the deal taking effect in January 2027. Todd and José discuss their thoughts on the deal and what exactly could the Union's team look like next season with the 27-year-old in the prime of his career.
Philadelphia Union acquire Mark McKenize: [6:48]
How can Union lineup next year: [16:05]
Union's options with DPs: [42:27]
Why would a player want to sign when there is uncertainty with the head coach: [58:40]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
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1 hr 34 min
Episode 439 - Union Set Club Record of 12 Unbeaten with 4-2 Win Over Orlando
Season 1, Episode 439
Show notes
Philadelphia Union continued their unbeaten streak on Saturday night with a 4-2 victory over Orlando City, which sees the Union sit comfortably in 6th place in the Eastern Conference, five points ahead of Orlando. Todd discusses the latest news which includes José Nuñez's report of Philadelphia Union turning down a deal for Malik Jakupovic from Borussia Dortmund and Cavan Sullivan, Frankie Westfield and Neil Pierre all making their USMNT against Peru. Todd gives his thought's on the game against Orlando City with topics including: Depth stepping up, what similarities does Ryan Richter see to the 2022 Union team, and Milan Iloski's second hat trick this season. Finally, Todd discusses Blunder of The Week which goes to Manchester City for being found guilty of 114 financial charges.
News:
•
Philadelphia Union turned down an offer from Borussia Dortmund for Malik Jakupovic during the most recent transfer window: [5:50]
•
Cavan Sullivan, Frankie Westfield and Neil Pierre all make debut with USMNT: [14:37]
Philadelphia Union v Orlando City:
•
Union avoid conceding early penalty: [24:58]
•
Depth steps up with five starters missing: [37:04]
•
Milan Iloski scores second hat trick of the season: [47:23]
•
Similarities Ryan Richter sees between 2022 team and this team: [56:03]
Blunder of the Week:
•
Manchester City charged with 114 financial charges: [1:16:20]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
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1 hr 12 min
Episode 438 - Relentless Union Complete 4-3 Comeback
Season 1, Episode 358
Show notes
For the third time in 11 games, the Philadelphia Union once again overcame a 2+ goal deficit, defeating Sporting KC 4-3, which sees the Union move into 6th place in the Eastern Conference. Todd and José discuss their thoughts from the game including: the Union's disastrous start to the game, halftime adjustments, the teams mentality under Richter and the playoff picture ahead.
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
-
1 hr 15 min
Episode 437 - Cavan Sullivan, Neil Pierre and Frankie Westfield Called-Up to USMNT (feat. Callum Williams)
Season 1, Episode 437
Show notes
The Philadelphia Union are looming to extend their 10 game unbeaten streak as they face off against Sporting KC this Saturday on the road. Todd and José are joining by MLS play-by-play commentator Callum Williams to preview the upcoming game. They discuss the Union's current streak and the reliance on their homegrown talent, what are realistic expectations for a playoff spot, and Cavan Sullivan, Neil Pierre and Frankie Westfield called up to the United States Men's National Team. Todd and José also discuss Jovan Lukic's contract extension with the Union through 2028-2029.
Philadelphia Union's season:
•
Turnaround after Bradley Carnell was sacked: [7:13]
•
Union's homegrown revelation: [13:53]
•
Union trio called up to USMNT: [18:33]
•
Sporting KC v Philadelphia Union preview: [22:40]
•
Jovan Lukic extension: [30:50]
•
Danley Jean Jacques call up to Haiti: [39:21]
•
Philippe Ndinga call up to Gabon: [40:57]
•
Cavan Sullivan, Frankie Westfield and Neil Pierre first call up to USMNT: [44:24]
Photo Credit: Don Robson
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
Callum's Social Media:
Twitter: @CalWilliamsComm
Instagram: @calwilliamscomm
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1 hr 25 min
Episode 436 - The Homegrown Takeover is Alive and Well in Philadelphia
Season 1, Episode 436
Show notes
The Philadelphia continued their winning ways Sunday night as they defeated San Diego FC 5-0, to mark the clubs second consecutive 5-0 win. Todd and José discuss the latest bit of news that includes Anthony Fontana signing for Brooklyn FC of the USL Championship. They also discuss their thoughts from Sunday's game with topic's including: 10 straight games undefeated for interim head coach Ryan Richter and the homegrown takeover.
News:
•
Anthony Fontana signs for Brooklyn FC: [6:24]
San Diego FC v Philadelphia Union:
•
Standout performers / Jovan Lukic: [13:22]
•
Where is Nathan Harriel's best position / what does his future look like: [24:35]
•
Cavan Sullivan continues to make case for USMNT: [33:53]
•
Cavan praise for Malik Jakupovic / could Malik play himself into a key role off the bench: [39:38]
•
Could Manchester City send Cavan to Europe earlier: [46:09]
•
Is this the best group of homegrown players ever for the Union: [54:33]
•
Union unbeaten in 10 games / comparisons to 2022 team [1:02:11]
Blunder of The Week:
•
Manchester derby controversial calls: [1:16:07]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
-
1 hr 9 min
Episode 435 - Bruno Damiani Bags First Career Hat TricK in 5-0 Union Win Over Cincinnati
Season 1, Episode 435
Show notes
Philadelphia Union picked up their biggest thrashing under interim head coach Ryan Richter, as they defeated FC Cincinnati by a score of 5-0 with Bruno Damaini scoring his first career trick, and Quinn Sullivan and Milan Iloski scoring from the penalty spot. Todd and José discuss their thoughts on the game including: Bruno Damiani's performance, Ryan Richter's sub choices after being up 4-0, and the Sullivan takeover in Philadelphia.
Philadelphia Union v FC Cincinnati:
•
Overall thoughts on red card, strong defensive effort, and Union one point off 6th place: [9:54]
•
Bruno Damiani's performance: [23:06]
•
Ryan Richter's sub choices after being up 4-0: [43:25]
•
The Sullivan takeover in Philadelphia: [50:05]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
-
1 hr 23 min
Episode 434 - Union Continue to Fly Under Ryan Richter With Eighth Straight Game Unbeaten
Season 1, Episode 434
Show notes
Philadelphia Union found a way to grind out a win over CF Montréal as Danley Jean Jacques and Cavan Sullivan scored in the 2-0 victory. Todd and José discuss the latest MLS news which includes: Markus Anderson loaned to Lyngby, Jack McGlynn sold to Stoke City and Union acquire GAM from LAFC and Real Salt Lake. They also discuss their thoughts from the game against Montréal with topics including: Union find a way to grind out a win, Cavan Sullivan's historic season, and Ryan Richter's faith in Bruno Damiani.
News:
•
Markus Anderson loaned to Lyngby: [10:28]
•
Jack McGlynn sold to Stoke City: [16:13]
•
Union acquire GAM from LAFC and RSL: [24:30]
Philadelphia Union v CF Montréal:
•
Why sports matter: [25:35]
•
Union grind out a win: [32:08]
•
Cavan Sullivan's historic season: [48:46]
•
Mauricio Pochettino on Union players: [53:22]
•
Ryan Richter's faith in Bruno Damiani: [1:08:55]
Blunder of The Week:
•
Prince Owusu failed panenka: [1:13:44]
Photo Credit: Don Robson
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
Mauricio Pochettino praises the Union's young stars, and opens the door to USMNT call-ups
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47 min
Episode 433 - Can The Union Make it Eight Straight Unbeaten Since World Cup Break? (Feat. Moisés Linares)
Season 1, Episode 433
Show notes
The Philadelphia Union play host to CF Montréal on Saturday, as the Union look to extend their unbeaten streak to eight games since the World Cup break. Todd and José are joined by MLS Spanish commentator Moisés Linares to preview the game.
The Spanish side of things for Apple TV / MLS:
•
Calling games solo: [3:11]
•
Incorporating English / Spanish style of commentary into your own: [9:20]
Philadelphia Union v CF Montréal:
•
How surprising is it that the Union are one point of a playoff spot: [15:50]
•
How big of a factor is Montréal's brutal travel scheduling going to play an affect: [22:43]
•
How big of a signing will Alexis Sánchez turn out to be: [26:50]
•
What will be key for a Union victory: [29:25]
•
Nathan Harriel reaches over 10000 minutes in MLS for Union: [36:38]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
Moisés Social Media:
Twitter: @MlinaresDC
Instagram: @mlinaresdc
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1 hr 27 min
Episode 432 - Cavan Sullivan Continues Case For USMNT Call-Up
Season 1, Episode 427
Show notes
The Philadelphia Union continued their flying start under interim head coach Ryan Richter, defeating Red Bull New York 3-1 behind goals from Milan Iloski, Cavan Sullivan, and Neil Pierre. The victory moved the Union to within one point of a playoff spot. Todd and José discuss the latest news from around MLS, including Stas Korzeniowski's loan move to Rhode Island FC and Dániel Gazdag's transfer to the New England Revolution. They then break down the Union's victory on Saturday night, with topics including Cavan Sullivan's case for a USMNT call-up and have the Union emerged as a legitimate playoff threat? Finally, they wrap up with Blunder of the Week, an honor that goes to José's beloved Manchester City.
News:
•
Stas Korzeniowski loaned to Rhode Island in USL Championship: [9:40]
•
Dániel Gazdag to New England Revolution: [15:27]
Red Bull New York v Philadelphia Union:
•
Danley Jean Jacques continues to impress / Andre Blake with a stellar performance: [24:57]
•
Cavan Sullivan continues to make case for USMNT call-up in September: [39:10]
•
Have the Union emerged as a legitimate playoff threat: [52:15]
Blunder of The Week:
•
Manchester City use AI for their third kit: [1:14:55]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
-
47 min
Episode 431 - MLS' Latest Homegrown Wave Ahead of Red Bull New York (ft. Chris Wittyngham)
Season 1, Episode 424
Show notes
The Philadelphia Union return to action on Saturday night as they face off against Red Bull New York, looking to keep their six-game unbeaten run intact. Todd and José are joined by MLS and CBS Sports commentator Chris Wittyngham to preview the match. They discuss topics such as the current homegrown wave in MLS, the differences in preparation for Bradley Carnell and Ryan Richter, the impact of Kai Wagner since his return, whether Cavan Sullivan should be called up during the next USMNT window, and Red Bull New York's current form. Todd and José wrap up the show with their thoughts on MLS' exit from the Leagues Cup and how close Agustín Anello is to earning more minutes.
Red Bull New York v Philadelphia Union:
•
MLS Homegrown wave: [4:45]
•
Difference in preparation between Bradley Carnell and Ryan Richter: [11:08]
•
Impact of Kai Wagner since his return: [15:23]
•
Is Cavan Sullivan playing with a chip on his shoulders: [20:00]
•
Should Cavan Sullivan be called up in the next USMNT window: [24:10]
•
Red Bull New York's current form: [27:26]
•
Agustín Anello pushing for more minutes: [40:10]
Leagues Cup:
•
MLS teams' eliminated from Leagues Cup: [34:54]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
Chris' Social Media:
Twitter: @ChrisWittyngham
Instagram: @chriswittyngham
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1 hr 12 min
Episode 430 - Neil Pierre Shines in Philadelphia's 1-1 Draw Against Austin
Season 1, Episode 430
Show notes
The Philadelphia Union remain unbeaten through interim head coach Ryan Richter's first six MLS games, as the Union and Austin played to a 1-1 draw at Q2 Stadium. Todd is joined by Evan Konigsberg to discuss the game and topics such as Neil Pierre's strong defensive performance, Ryan Richter's first six games in MLS, and Richter using the same starting XI against Austin that faced Inter Miami three days ago. Finally, Todd talks about the Blunder of the Week, which involves Crew Alexandra and Northampton Town.
News:
•
The Seattle Sounders have agreed to a deal to acquire star forward Dejan Joveljic from Sporting KC for $6M: [3:35]
•
Sporting KC offered $25M for Nico Fernandez Mercau: [6:29]
•
The San Jose Earthquakes agreed to a deal to acquire midfielder Eduard Löwen from St. Louis City: [13:00]
Austin FC v Philadelphia Union:
•
Cavan Sullivan's second goal / Andre Blake saves: [18:01]
•
Ryan Richter goes with same XI as he did against Miami: [28:38]
•
Bench options: [36:26]
•
Ryan Richter through six MLS games: [44:35]
•
Neil Pierre's strong performance: [53:07]
Blunder of The Week:
•
Crewe Alexandra's Josh March steals the ball coming from behind the Northampton goalkeeper to score the winner: [59:47]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
Evan's Social Media:
Twitter: @evanknowsball
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1 hr 35 min
Episode 429 - Broad Street Sullivan's
Season 1, Episode 429
Show notes
Philadelphia Union and Inter Miami played to a 2-2 draw on Wednesday night, in a match where the Philadelphia Union looked the better side. In a game that should've been about the Union's strong performance, unfortunately got overshadowed by Inter Miami's antics throughout the game. Todd is joined by Evan Konigsberg to discuss the match, with topics including: Inter Miami's antics throughout the match + red cards to Yannick Bright and Cavan Sullivan, assessing Ryan Richter's first five MLS games, and missed opportunities for three points.
News:
•
Neil Pierre named to MLS Team of The Matchday 21: [4:14]
•
Mark McKenzie re-joining Philadelphia Union in 2027 of January: [8:11]
Philadelphia Union v Inter Miami:
•
Overall atmosphere: [17:50]
•
Big moments in the game / Indiana Vassilev / Nathan Harriel / Neil Pierre: [27:18]
•
Miami antics over the years: [48:19]
•
Ryan Richter deserves credit from national media: [52:00]
•
Missed opportunities: [58:29]
•
Miami antics / Cavan Sullivan and Yannick Bright situation: [1:09:30]
**Photo Credit: Carl Gulbish**
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
Evan's Social Media:
Twitter: @evanknowsball
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1 hr 24 min
Episode 428 - Philadelphia Union Erase Another 2-0 Deficit, As They Defeat NYCFC 3-2
Season 1, Episode 428
Show notes
The Philadelphia Union have made it back-back MLS games that they have comeback from 2-0 deficits in MLS, as they scored three goals in the second half with Danley Jean Jacques and Bruno Damiani to complete a 3-2 win over NYCFC. Todd and José give their thoughts on the win and discuss topics such as: Bruno Damiani's much needed performance, Sullivan brothers both shine, should Ryan Richter be given the first team job permanently because of his relationship with the Sullivan brothers, and Richter's second half changes prove key. Todd also gives his Blunder of the Week that involves high school soccer.
NYCFC v Philadelphia Union:
•
Danley's performances under Richter and the cost of midfielders World Wide: [6:10]
•
Controversial penalties given up: [18:06]
•
Bruno Damiani's first MLS brace: [25:09]
•
Sullivan brothers shine: [36:12]
•
Should Ryan Richter be given the Union job permanently for his relationship with Sullivan brothers / Ryan Richter's second half changes: [58:53]
Blunder of The Week:
•
Punches thrown in a High School soccer game in South Dakota between Rapid City Central vs. Brookings: [1:09:07]
Social Media:
https://thefreekick.substack.com/
Jose's Social Media:
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