Philadelphia Union beat Toronto FC 4-1 at Subaru Park in the 2026 MLS regular-season finale, securing sixth place in the Eastern Conference. Cavan Sullivan scored twice and won a penalty in the victory.
Sullivan completes a brace
The 17-year-old winger scored his first goal in the 28th minute and added his second 30 minutes later. It was his second brace of the season, following the two goals he scored against San Diego FC in September.
Quinn Sullivan converted the penalty won by Cavan Sullivan in the 41st minute at Subaru Park.
Return from injury
Sullivan returned to action on Oct. 31, playing 30 minutes off the bench in Cincinnati. Ryan Richter, the Union’s interim manager, said after Saturday’s win: “Cav was great.”
Richter added: “He was out a couple weeks and came in last game just to get back into the rhythm, and he was excellent tonight.”
Sullivan was all smiles after the game. He said: “Huge credit to the team ... They have given me confidence in my steps back to fully returning, just telling me to go out there and enjoy myself and play free. I thought you could see that today. Just playing with confidence and having fun.”
Regular-season production
Sullivan ended the regular season with 23 total goal contributions, excluding the penalty kick he won. He had eight goals and 10 assists in league play since Aug. 16.
Philadelphia Union had a 15-game unbeaten streak in the fall.
Sullivan told Sports Illustrated in early September: “I didn’t change as a player all that much. ... having a new coach and one that believed in me. A lesson I learned—it was a tough one—is that not everyone is going to like you. It’s a tough lesson for a 14-, 15-year-old kid.”
United States national-team involvement
USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino named Sullivan in his 25-man squad for the upcoming November international camp. Sullivan started two of the USMNT’s four friendlies, against Peru and Mexico. Mexico lost 3-0, with Sullivan scoring against Mexico.
A two-match series with Haiti is set for the Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals. A win on aggregate will secure advancement to the Nations League Finals next March and an automatic berth in the 2027 Concacaf Gold Cup.
Pochettino said after Sullivan’s debut against Peru: “I’m so happy with his performance, I feel really proud. At 16 years old, performing, fighting and playing with personality. With character.”
Sullivan is eager to continue making his mark in red, white and blue. He said: “confidence is good. Really happy and just looking to continue with the national team. It’s going to be a great experience. Meet new people, make new friends, and it’s competitive games this time.”
