Story of the Match
D.C. United will face Western Conference opponent LA Galaxy at Dignity Health Sports Park on July 12, with kickoff set for 10:30 p.m. ET.
The Black-and-Red will look to build on a 0-0 draw against Atlanta United in their most recent MLS match on July 5, a result that brought their season record to 4-10-7. In that match, goalkeeper Luis Barraza recorded his third clean sheet of the season behind a solid defensive effort from the backline. Austrian left back David Schnegg and center back Lucas Bartlett played full 90-minute shifts to help secure the shutout, providing some much-needed defensive stability.
A major boost for D.C. United was the return of star forward Christian Benteke to the starting lineup. Benteke made his first start since May 14 and logged 72 minutes against Atlanta, registering two shots and winning 10 duels in an active performance. His presence up top noticeably increased the Black-and-Reds attacking pressure. Despite the offensive frustrations in recent matches, the 2024 MLS Golden Boot winner’s return gives D.C. a focal point in the attacking third and a proven chance-creator. Benteke ranks among top 10 MLS leaders in expected goals this season in fewer appearances with 10.01. With Benteke back and players like Barraza, Schnegg, and Bartlett in form, D.C. United will aim to turn their renewed energy into a positive result away from home on Saturday night.
LA Galaxy enters this matchup as the defending MLS Cup champions, but their 2025 season has been a difficult one. As of July 10, the Galaxy sits at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a 2-6-13 record. Los Angeles has won just one of their first 20 matches this season, but they may be starting to turn a corner in form. In their most recent outing on July 4, the Galaxy earned a convincing 3-0 home victory over Vancouver Whitecaps FC. Their second consecutive victory at home, snapping a long winless run and providing a surge of confidence for Greg Vanney’s squad.
Despite their low standing, the Galaxy possesses dangerous attacking talent capable of testing any defense. German international Marco Reus and MLS veteran Christian Ramirez have been key contributors, each tallying four goals to lead the team in scoring. Reus has been especially influential, compiling 10 goal contributions (four goals, six assists) in 15 MLS appearances as the creative engine of LA’s offense. The Galaxy attack was further bolstered in their last match by winger Joseph Paintsil, who recorded a brace in the 3-0 win over Vancouver. With Reus pulling the strings in midfield, Ramirez providing a finishing touch up front, and newcomers like Paintsil in form, the Galaxy have the firepower to be far more dangerous than their record suggests. D.C. United’s defense will need to remain compact and alert to handle the visitors’ attacking threats, even as the Galaxy continues to seek consistency this season.
D.C. United is coming off a U.S. Open Cup Quarterfinal matchup against Nashville SC, that saw the Black-and-Red's tournament come to an end in a 5-2 loss at GEODIS Park on July 9. The team parted ways with Head Coach Troy Lesesne and Assistant Coach Zach Prince shortly after the defeat. Current Director of Academy & Player Development, Kevin Flanagan, will take over as the Interim Head Coach while D.C. United fills the vacancy.
By the Numbers | D.C. United vs. Atlanta United | June 28, 2025
- Goalkeeper Luis Barraza recorded his third clean sheet of the season, facing one shot on target and comfortably making the save to keep the match scoreless.
- Forward Christian Benteke returned to the starting lineup for the first time since May 14, recording two shots and winning a match-high 10 duels in 72 minutes played.
- Defender David Schnegg completed the full 90 minutes, contributing both defensively and offensively, registering five recoveries and delivering four successful crosses.
- Midfielder Jackson Hopkins made his 50th MLS appearance for D.C. United, coming on in the 80th minute and nearly scoring a late winner in stoppage time.
Last Match Against LA Galaxy | May 20, 2023 @ Audi Field
In their last meeting, D.C. United secured a convincing 3-0 victory over LA Galaxy at Audi Field on May 20, 2023. After a tightly contested first half, Christian Benteke broke the deadlock in the 71st minute, setting the stage for a late offensive surge. Just two minutes later, Benteke turned provider, assisting midfielder Cristian Dájome to double United’s lead. The Black-and-Red capped off the scoring spree in the 80th minute, with midfielder Matuesz Klich adding a third goal to seal the win. The dominant performance showcased United's attacking prowess and resilience at home, as they outshot the Galaxy 13-11, controlling the pace and momentum throughout the match.
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.
