Match Preview: D.C. United @ New York Red Bulls June 29, 2024

Story of the Match

D.C. United head north to Red Bull Arena on Saturday, June 29, for a crucial Eastern Conference matchup against their rivals, the New York Red Bulls. The Red Bulls will look to cement themselves further at the top of the conference table while D.C. United are aiming to swing back into the playoff spots. Points are tight in the middle of the pack, making this match week significant for postseason aspirations.

The Red Bulls are on a roll so far in 2024. Flying high with new signing Emil Forsberg, RBNY sits comfortably in third place in the East. Their high-pressing style and strong midfield have been key to their success. Midfielder Cameron Harper is in excellent form, having recently scored his first goal of the season. At home, the Red Bulls boast a strong record, especially against D.C. United, winning their last three meetings at Red Bull Arena.

For Troy Lesesne’s squad, D.C. United look to break the winless streak. The Black-and-Red come into the match on the back of some inconsistent results, but they are still within striking distance of a higher spot in the standings. With that said, however, D.C. United have their work cut out for them. The list of injured D.C. United players is long, plus Christian Benteke and Matai Akinmboni both received red cards last match against the Houston Dynamo meaning they’ll be unavailable for the away trip this weekend. If D.C. United are going to come away with points, they’ll have to rely on other players such as midfielder Jared Stroud, who has shown flashes of creativity and leads the team in assists. Whoever Lesesne picks for his starting XI on Saturday night will be crucial in unlocking the Red Bulls’ defense.

By The Numbers

• Midfielder Martin Rodriguez leads D.C. United with 53.7 accurate passes per 90 minutes; Rodriguez has a passing accuracy of 90.4%.

• The Black-and-Red rank 4th in MLS with 35.0 expected goals this season; New York ranked 8th with 30.2.

• Defender Aaron Herrera is ranked 2nd in MLS with 33 blocks this season.

• D.C. United ranked 4th in MLS in big chances this season with 60; New York ranked 9th with 51.

Historical Match Ups

D.C. United's all-time regular season record against RBNY is 37-35-17 with 146 goals for and 135 goals against.