Match Preview: D.C. United vs. Toronto FC June 1, 2024

Story of the Match

D.C. United have not won in four matches and the need for points grows with each passing week. In Montreal on Wednesday night, the Black-and-Red were unable to overcome being shorthanded after Matti Peltola was sent off for receiving two yellow cards in the first half of the match.

Despite the loss, D.C. United have continued to see strong performances from multiple players this season. Forward Christian Benteke has continued to stand out in MLS as he finds himself tied for the lead in the MLS Golden Boot Race with 13 goals in 14 games played this season.

Newcomer Aaron Herrera has also had a standout first season for the Black-and-Red, logging six assists from the right back position, and contributing mightily on both sides of the ball.

In 2024, Toronto FC is performing a bit of a turnaround after being the worst team in MLS in 2023. But with seven wins and two draws so far this season, Toronto sits on 23 points which is good for sixth place in the Eastern Conference. Much of the turnaround is due to a high-powered offense led by Federico Bernardeschi and Deandre Kerr, both of whom have five goals apiece. And just behind them with four goals each are Jonathan Osorio and Lorenzo Insigne.

Toronto is also under new leadership from the touchline with former coach of the Canadian Men’s National Team, John Herdman, having been appointed to the head coach position after the completion of the 2023 season.

Both D.C. United and Toronto FC came away with a win each when facing each other in 2023, with the home team coming out on top in each scenario. With the Black-and-Red playing at Audi Field this Saturday night, the energy and urgency to perform from Troy Lesesne and the squad should make for a thrilling 90 minutes of soccer action in the nation’s capital.

By the Numbers

• Aaron Herrera ranks 3rd on the team with 15 clearances and 2nd on the team in crosses with 15 (if you want to add to that Herrera paragraph).
• D.C. United's all-time regular season record against Toronto FC is 17-12-11 (W-L-T) with 72 goals scored and 57 goals against.
• The Black-and-Red have scored 21 of their 72 goals in the first 15 minutes of the match.
• D.C. United is averaging 4.9 shots on target per match (ranked 11th in MLS); Toronto is averaging 4.8 shots on target per match (ranked 14th in MLS).
• The Black-and-Red are ranked 8th in MLS in interceptions per match with 9.5; Toronto ranked 12th with 9.4.

Historical Match Ups

Historically, D.C. United holds the distinct advantage, owning a 17-13-11 (W-L-D) record against Toronto FC.

The goals that put Benteke atop the league's goal scoring list: