Match Preview: D.C. United vs. Houston Dynamo FC June 22, 2024

Story of the Match

D.C. United will face off against Houston Dynamo FC on Saturday, June 22 in an important match for both teams' playoff ambitions. This fixture also marks the return of club legend, Ben Olsen, who is the head coach for Houston. Olsen spent 11 years as a player for D.C. United, helping the club win two MLS Cup Championships (‘99 & ‘04) and was head coach from 2010 to 2020.

D.C. United have not won in their last seven matches and have slipped down the Eastern Conference standings, only managing to earn two points from their previous seven games. After failing to score against Atlanta United FC earlier in the week, Christian Benteke and the Black-and-Red offense are eager to bounce back and put some goals in the net.

Despite their recent struggles, Troy Lesesne’s team remains optimistic as they are still within striking distance of a playoff position, with Atlanta United FC and the Philadelphia Union just one point ahead in the Eastern Conference standings. Forward Christian Benteke is hoping to add to his 13 goals this season and keep him in the MLS Golden Boot race.

On the other hand, Houston Dynamo FC, are currently in eighth place in the Western Conference of Major League Soccer with 24 points and a record of 6-6-6. Houston’s leading goal scorer, Latif Blessing, will be looking to net his 6th goal of the 2024 campaign when they visit Audi Field. Although Houston has a slight advantage in goal differential, D.C. United have scored 25 total goals, three more goals than the Dynamo this season.

This match is crucial for both teams as they are in desperate need of a victory to boost their chances of making it to the playoffs. D.C. United will rely on their home field advantage, while Houston will be motivated to secure points on the road.

By the Numbers

• The Black-and-Red havea 7-15-5 all-time regular season record against Houston Dynamo FC.

• Forward Christian Benteke is averaging 1.8 shots on target per 90 minutes; Benteke has a total of f59 shots with 13 goals this season.

• D.C. United are ranked 4th in the league in accurate crosses per match averaging 6.1; Houston Dynamo FC ranked 12th with 4.3 accurate crosses per match.

• Midfielder Mateusz Klich leads D.C. United with 44 chances created; averaging 2.5 chances created per match.

• The Black-and-Red are averaging 9.0 interceptions per match; Houston averaging 6.6 interceptions per match.

Historical Matchups

This is a rare east-west matchup that has seen Houston Dynamo hold a slight edge over the Black-and-Red. In 29 all-time matches, D.C. United holds a record of 7-16-6 (W-L-D).