How The Philadelphia Union Can Stop, Err, Contain Lionel Messi

The Union need to slow down the greatest of all time to book a spot in the Leagues Cup final.

CHESTER — The Philadelphia Union have the most difficult task in world soccer on their hands on Tuesday night.

They have to stop contain Lionel Messi for 90 minutes.

Three Union players shared the field with Messi in international competitions. Andre Blake and Damion Lowe most recently faced the Argentinian great in a September friendly with Jamaica. Jose Martinez has played against him in CONMEBOL matches with Venezuela.

“He’s a handful,” Lowe said. “We have to stick to our beliefs and what we’re trying to do. Always be aware of where he is because he’s a player who just pops up in places that you don’t expect.”