Match Preview – D.C. United vs. Philadelphia Union on Apr. 26 @ Subaru Park

Story of the Match

D.C. United plays on the road for the second consecutive match and fifth in 2025 against the Philadelphia Union this Saturday, April 26 at Subaru Park, with kickoff scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET. After a thrilling 2-1 win over the New York Red Bulls, the Black-and-Red will look to carry that momentum into another tough road match and secure their second away win of 2025.

The Eastern Conference clash against longtime rivals, the New York Red Bulls, saw D.C. United finally break through on the road in dramatic fashion. The Black-and-Red started on the front foot, immediately testing New York’s backline and nearly taking the lead in the 16th minute with a powerful Benteke header that forced a diving save from Carlos Coronel. A few minutes later in the 29th minute, Christian Benteke was forced off the pitch due to an injury with Dominique Badji replacing the 2024 MLS Golden Boot winner.

The Black-and-Red continued to push forward, and that relentless pressure paid off when João Peglow stepped up in spectacular fashion, scoring a brace before halftime, including a highlight-reel bicycle kick in the 44th minute that stunned the home crowd and earned him MLS Team of the Matchday honors. New York pulled one back through Choupo-Moting early in the second half and nearly equalized on a late corner, but former NYCFC goalkeeper Luis Barraza came up with key saves to preserve the win. D.C. United now turns its attention to a dangerous Philadelphia Union side who have been historically strong against the Black-and-Red at home, commanding a 3-12-1 record at Subaru Park since 2011.

The Philadelphia Union is coming off an emphatic 3-0 win against Atlanta United on April 19. Entering the match with a 5-3-1 (win-loss-tie) record, Philadelphia will be looking to get another win in front of their home fans at Subaru Park. The Union continues to be one of the Eastern Conference’s most difficult teams to break down, with a disciplined backline led by Jakob Glesnes and the veteran presence of goalkeeper Andre Blake. In the final third, forward Tai Baribo has been in standout form, leading the team with seven goals in eight matches this season. Supporting him is Danish striker Mikael Uhre, who adds depth and experience to the Union’s attack, while 21-year-old rising midfielder Quinn Sullivan continues to develop into a dynamic playmaker capable of creating chances in tight spaces. The Black-and-Red midfield and backline will need to stay sharp and compact throughout the match to limit Philadelphia’s attacking rhythm.

By the Numbers:

Forward João Peglow scored his first Black-and-Red goal in the 35th minute and his second in the 44th minute. Peglow had two goals off three shots and completed six dribbles in 83 minutes played on Saturday, April 19 against New York Red Bulls.

Goalkeeper Luis Barraza made his second start for the Black-and-Red this season on Saturday, April 19 against New York Red Bulls, recording two saves from three shots on target and one assist.

Midfielder Brandon Servania won 100% of his tackles and recorded an 84% passing accuracy in 83 minutes played against New York Red Bulls.

Defender Aaron Herrera recorded his second assist of the season tonight and had five
clearances for the Black-and-Red; he completed 90 minutes against New York Red Bulls.

Last Match Against Philadelphia Union | September 22, 2024 @ Subaru Park

The last encounter between D.C. United and Philadelphia Union ended in a 4-0 loss at Subaru Park on September 22, 2024. Philadelphia was the dominant side in the match as Mikael Uhre opened the scoring in the 13th minute, followed by Daniel Gazdag’s strike just three minutes
later. The Union extended their lead in the second half with goals from Tai Baribo and another from Daniel Gazdag in the 69th minute. Despite some solid individual efforts, including Christian Benteke’s link-up play, D.C. United struggled to break down Philadelphia’s defense and was unable to generate any significant chances.

How to Watch

• D.C. United fans can catch all the action of their favorite team by subscribing to MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. With this subscription, you can watch every D.C. United game live, whether it’s home or away, along with exclusive pre- and post-match coverage. Simply open the Apple TV app, navigate to MLS Season Pass, and subscribe to enjoy the entire 2025 season. Whether you're at home or on the go, you'll have access to every match, ensuring you never miss a moment of D.C. United's season. Enjoy seamless streaming on your Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, and more!
• Radio broadcasts will be available live on 1190 iHeart Sports DC, 101.1 HD2, and the iHeartRadio App. Legendary broadcaster Dave Johnson, who has called games for D.C. United since the club’s inception in 1996 will return to the booth alongside Bruce Murray, former United States National Team player (1985-1993, 85 caps and 21 goals) and Class of 2011 National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee. The pair have partnered on radio calls since 2023 to deliver high-quality and passionate radio calls for fans. Supporters watching D.C. United MLS Regular Season games on MLS Season Pass can opt to listen to Dave Johnson and Bruce Murray calling the game on the MLS Local Radio Broadcast channel.