Sam Surridge scored a hat trick as Nashville SC topped the Philadelphia Union, 3-1, Tuesday night at GEODIS Park to advance to the 2025 US Open Cup final.
In the Oct. 1 title match, Nashville will visit the winner of Wednesday's semifinal between Minnesota United FC and Austin FC (8:30 pm ET | Paramount+, CBS Sports Network). The winner will claim a 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup spot, prize money and silverware.
Surridge carried his hot MLS scoring form into one of the biggest games in club history, breaking the ice in the 36th minute with a wide-open header following a throw-in, before doubling their lead early in the second half after another set-piece.
Quinn Sullivan pulled one back for the Union midway through the second half with a fantastic right-footed shot from outside the box.
However, Surridge would have the final say with an equally stunning finish, first-timing Daniel Lovitz's service past goalkeeper Andrew Rick in the 85th minute to cap a memorable night for Nashville.
Goals
Three Things
- THE BIG PICTURE: Nashville will play their second tournament final after a runner-up finish in Leagues Cup 2023. Can they add the first piece of silverware to their trophy case? It would be a crowning achievement in their first full season under head coach B.J. Callaghan, who also has the club fighting for home-field advantage in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs.
- MOMENT OF THE MATCH: With Philadelphia threatening to equalize late in the game, Surridge saved the best of his three goals for last, sealing a hat trick that secured a historic result for Nashville.
- MAN OF THE MATCH: The MLS Golden Boot presented by Audi leader with 21 goals, Surridge is just as dangerous for Nashville in the US Open Cup.
Next Up
- NSH: Saturday, Sept. 20 at Orlando City | 7:30 pm ET (MLS Season Pass) | MLS regular season
- PHI: Saturday, Sept. 20 vs. New England Revolution | 2:30 pm ET (MLS Season Pass) | MLS regular season
