Philadelphia Union x FC Cincinnati

Baribo’s Hat Trick Powers Philadelphia Union Past FC Cincinnati in 4-1 Rout

The Philadelphia Union put on a show in their home opener at Subaru Park, dismantling FC Cincinnati 4-1 in a dominant display on March 1, 2025. The night belonged to Tai Baribo, who bagged a hat trick and stamped his mark as the early-season scoring leader in MLS.

From the opening whistle, the Union looked sharp, pressing high and dictating play. It took just six minutes for them to break through, as Kai Wagner delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, finding Baribo, who clinically finished to send the home crowd into a frenzy.

Cincinnati, coming off a strong start to their season, struggled to find their rhythm against Philadelphia’s relentless pressure. The Union doubled their lead in the 30th minute when Daniel Gazdag pounced on a misplaced pass and set up Baribo for his second goal of the night. The Israeli striker made no mistake, calmly slotting it past the keeper to give Philly a commanding 2-0 advantage.

The second half picked up right where the first left off—more Union dominance. Just seven minutes after the restart, Gazdag once again played provider, threading a perfect pass to Baribo, who completed his hat trick with a clinical finish. Three goals, three points seemingly secured, and a home crowd loving every moment.

Cincinnati managed a response in the 58th minute, as Evander fired a stunning left-footed strike from outside the box to cut the deficit to 3-1. But the visitors never truly threatened a comeback, and the Union weren’t done yet.

Deep into stoppage time, Philadelphia put the finishing touch on their emphatic win. Quinn Sullivan, making an impact off the bench, set up Bruno Damiani, who marked his club debut with a coolly taken goal, sealing the 4-1 scoreline.

With this win, Philadelphia remains undefeated to start the season, setting a club record with eight goals in their first two matches. Baribo’s five-goal tally in two games makes him the league’s leading scorer, and the Union’s attacking chemistry looks as sharp as ever.

[Photography by Trey Madara]