Philadelphia Union Thrashes Defence Force In Champions Cup As Cavan Sullivan Shines

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Philadelphia Union marched into the Champions Cup last 16 with a 7-0 second-leg win over Defence Force, sealing a 12-0 aggregate success. Six different scorers featured, but 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan stood out at Subaru Park with two goals and two assists in a one-sided first-round tie.

Sullivan’s brace delivered the first two professional goals of the 2009-born midfielder’s career. Across the two legs, Sullivan supplied three assists and scored twice, directly involved in five goals. Sullivan also became the youngest American player to score in the Champions Cup, underscoring the scale of this performance.

The scoring started early when Geiner Martinez struck after seven minutes, guiding a first-time effort into the bottom-left corner from inside the area. The lead doubled soon after, as Jovan Lukic converted a penalty following Shirwin Noel’s foul on Jeremy Rafanello, leaving Defence Force chasing the game almost immediately.

Philadelphia continued to attack down the right flank, and Sullivan’s first key contribution arrived in the 12th minute. After sharp combination play on that wing, Sullivan produced a deft flick that released Stas Korzeniowski through on goal, with Korzeniowski finishing calmly to tighten the MLS side’s grip on the contest.

The second half brought more damage for the Trinidad and Tobago club. Korzeniowski claimed a second goal, before Ben Bender drilled in at the near post from Sullivan’s lofted pass. Sullivan then drove into the area and curled beyond Isaiah Williams, later adding an 88th-minute tap-in from Sal Olivas’ square ball.

Head coach Bradley Carnell watched his team dominate every department. Philadelphia produced 19 shots and 3.83 expected goals, while Defence Force failed to register any attempts in the second leg. The Union’s relentless pressure left the visitors pinned back for long spells and protected a clean sheet without major scares.

Sullivan’s display drew wider attention beyond the scoreline. The teenager’s two goals, three assists and Champions Cup age record highlighted a standout night in continental competition, adding another storyline to Philadelphia’s progress and offering the club further attacking depth for the challenges awaiting in the knockout rounds.

Philadelphia Union leave the first round with a 12-0 aggregate, a flawless defensive record and a young midfielder already making history. With Sullivan’s emergence and the team’s dominant metrics, Carnell’s side move into the last 16 carrying confidence and a clear attacking threat for future Champions Cup opponents.