Match Preview: D.C. United @ Philadelphia Union - Sept. 22, 2024

Story of the Match

D.C. United faces a pivotal clash against the Philadelphia Union on Sunday, September 22 in a match that could significantly impact their playoff aspirations. The Black-and-Red have shown renewed vigor and determination in recent weeks, with positive performances in each of their last three games serving as a testament to the resilience displayed over the course of a long season.

Aiding the performances has been current Golden Boot leader, Christian Benteke. The Belgian striker has netted five goals in the last five MLS games for D.C. United and leads the league in goals scored with a two-goal cushion. Not only that, but since arriving in MLS in 2022, Benteke has managed to score 34 times in his 63 games played.

Under the leadership of Coach Troy Lesesne, D.C. United has adopted an energetic and positive style that has yielded positive results as the season progressed. Some of their standout strengths this season have included offensive set pieces, and the ability to create a disruptive press.

While the Union pose a formidable challenge, D.C. United's recent turn in form could provide them with something Philadelphia hasn’t come to expect from D.C. United in recent matchups.

Coached by Jim Curtin, Philadelphia enters the match with their own playoff ambitions on the line as well. Their recent 5-1 win against NYCFC on Wednesday reminded the league of the same quality that has led them to recent Supporters Shields as well as the 2022 MLS Cup Final.

The match promises to be an exciting contest with both teams fighting for crucial points. D.C. United will be without defender Lucas Bartlett, who has started 27 of the 28 MLS matches for the Black-and-Red, due to yellow card accumulation. D.C. United's determination and recent performances give them a strong chance of securing a victory and keeping their playoff hopes well intact.

By the Numbers

• D.C. United is looking for their 10th all-time regular season win against the Philadelphia Union.
• Forward Christian Benteke added another goal to his tally last match making it 19 goals in 25 matches this season; Benteke continues to lead the MLS Golden Boot Race by two goals.
• The Black-and-Red have scored 44 goals this season; 25 from open play, 13 from set pieces, 5 from the penalty spot and one directly from a free kick.
• Midfielders Mateusz Klich and Jared Stroud both lead the team in big chances created with 13 and in assists with 10 a piece.
• D.C. United is ranked 12th in MLS with 45.6 expected goals this season ; the Philadelphia Union are ranked 2nd with 52.5.