D.C. United's Busy Week

D.C. United had a busy week already, putting in a match on Saturday against the New England Revolution, then jetting straight to California to face Western Conference darlings, LAFC. While neither game ended in D.C.'s favor, progress was seen.

Building a Team Takes Time

Building a team takes time. I've said this before, and I'll certainly say it again. While this building phase can be painful in the short term, what a difference a few transfer windows can make. We've already experienced one transfer window under Lucy Rushton and Wayne Rooney's watch and can only hope subsequent windows are as productive.

Tonight's Match

Tonight, the Black-and-Red will have to capitalize on their defense while remaining brave on the ball to take three points from first-place Philadelphia Union (currently with 48 points).

Listen to what Wayne Rooney had to say after the match with LAFC here:

Key Player: Taxi Fountas

Fountas continues to be the Black-and-Red's top and most dangerous goalscorer. His absence definitely creates issues for D.C. United.

Watch Out For: Dániel Gazdag

While Gazdag is the top scorer for the Union, D.C.'s last match against the Union showed that danger could come from anywhere in the lineup.

Challenges

During the season's final stretch, every game is a must-win for last place D.C. United if they want a chance at making the playoffs.

Previously

The last meeting between D.C. United and Philadelphia Union was, well, let's just say we'd be thrilled to never speak of it again. The Black-and-Red were downed 7-0 at Subaru Park. However, during the 2021 season, each side won at home. Let's hope that trend holds true tonight.

D.C. United Availability

Out: Steve Birnbaum (red card suspension), Adrien Perez (foot), Brendan Hines-Ike (foot), Brad Smith (knee)

Questionable: Bill Hamid (hand), Nigel Robertha (hamstring)

Philadelphia Union Availability

Out: None

Questionable: None

Location

Audi Field, Washington, DC

Kickoff Time

7:30 pm ET

Referee

Ted Unkel

Available TV

NBC Sports Washington, TeleXitos

Available Streaming

dcunited.com, ESPN+ (both subject to blackouts)

Feel free to check our DCU how to watch guide to figure out what your best option is.

For listings in other countries, check out LiveSoccerTV.com.