The Black-and-Red host the Colorado Rapids at Audi Field to kickoff the 25th season in MLS history on Saturday, Feb. 29. United are 21-13-12 in club history against Colorado and defeated the Rapids 3-2 last season on April 13, 2019 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. The Black-and-Red will look to continue their momentum from preseason that saw them earn wins over Louisville SC (USL Championship), Orlando City and Philadelphia Union.
In the final preseason match against the Philadelphia Union on Feb.22, the Black-and-Red put together their most complete performance in 2020. After looking dangerous from the start, Ola Kamara opened the scoring in the 18th minute off an assist from Ulises Segura. Just before halftime, Jamiro Monteiro equalized for the Union. Following the break, United continued to create chances until Kamara converted from the penalty spot in the 54th minute for his second of the match. The Black-and-Red finished the game off after Julian Gressel picked out Segura in the box to put them up 3-1.
Head Coach Ben Olsen is entering his 10th season in charge of United as he looks to lead the Black-and-Red to the playoffs for the sixth time in his coaching career. D.C. United went through some major changes this offseason as they acquired midfielders Yamil Asad, Edison Flores and Julian Gressel to revamp their attacking unit. After finishing the 2019 season with a league-high 14 clean sheets, United retained their defensive core with Frédéric Brillant signing a two-year contract extension and Bill Hamid returning on a permanent basis.
The Colorado Rapids missed the playoffs in 2019 with a 12-16-6 record. Former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard retired after four seasons with the Rapids. Robin Fraser enters his first full season as head coach after being appointed to the position on Aug. 25, 2019. Danish midfielder Younes Namli arrived in the offseason from Russian side FC Krasnodar as the club's only Designated Player.
The game will be broadcast on WJLA 24/7 News with coverage beginning at 12:30 PM ET.
