Match Preview: D.C. United vs. Celtic FC July 20, 2024

Story of the Match

D.C. United will host Scottish giants Celtic FC at Audi Field tomorrow in a highly anticipated friendly match with kickoff set for 7:30 PM. The game will serve as a special tribute to longtime defender Steven Birnbaum, who announced his retirement earlier in the week. As D.C. United prepares to say goodbye to one of its most iconic players, the Black-and-Red will welcome one of Europe's most storied clubs to the nation's capital. To purchase tickets for the Celtic FC friendly and to witness Birnbaum’s final game, click HERE.

Captain Steven Birnbaum has had an illustrious career with the Black-and-Red since being drafted 2nd overall in the 2014 MLS SuperDraft. He made his debut for the club on June 7, 2014, and would assume the captain's armband three years later in 2017. In 11 seasons with D.C. United, the 33-year-old has appeared in 262 MLS matches, scoring 13 goals with seven assists, 488 interceptions and 1,216 clearances. Birnbaum has made 275 career appearances for D.C. United, making him the third-most featured player in club history behind Jaime Moreno (386) and Bill Hamid (297).

Fresh off their domestic treble, Celtic will be using this match to kick off their preseason tour of the United States. Following their match in the nation’s Capital, the Hoops will travel to North Carolina then South Bend, Indiana before heading back to start their 2024-25 season.

The star-studded Celtic roster includes the likes of USMNT defender Cameron Carter-Vickers, as well as Honduran forward Luis Palma, Japanese forward Kyogo, and longtime Scotland national team midfielder, Callum McGregor. The Scottish side is led by manager Brendan Rodgers, who has seen previous successful coaching journeys with Premier League Clubs Liverpool and Leicester City.

Expect a passionate atmosphere at Audi Field as fans come together to celebrate Birnbaum's career and witness the attacking prowess of the Scottish champions.

Historical Match Ups

D.C. United and Celtic FC met previously in the states, back in 2006 when Celtic visited for a match up that finished 4-0 in favor of the Black-and-Red. Goals from Freddy Adu, Jamil Walker, Bobby Boswell, and Andy Metcalf.