South African defender Olwethu Makhanya headed home a second-half corner to help Philadelphia Union to an emphatic 5-0 away victory over Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Force in Wednesday’s first leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup first-round tie.
It sets up Union for a comfortable second leg in Philadelphia next week, where they are expected to ensure progress to face Mexican powerhouse Club América in the round of 16 next month.
The CONCACAF Champions Cup is the North American and Caribbean region’s version of the African and UEFA Champions League, and this year’s winner is guaranteed a place at the next Club World Cup in 2029.
Makhanya’s header in the 64th minute was the third goal of the game in Port of Spain for Union, coached by former Bafana Bafana fullback Bradley Carnell.
The 21-year-old Makhanya, who joined Philadelphia from Stellenbosch more than two years ago, was a regular as Carnell’s side finished last year’s regular MLS season in top place but has been pointedly ignored by South Africa coach Hugo Broos.
Philadelphia begin the new Major Soccer League season at the weekend with an away trip to Washington to take on DC United, before next Thursday’s return leg against the Trinidad side.