D.C. United Faces FC Cincinnati Amidst Losing Streak in MLS

WASHINGTON, D.C. — D.C. United will host FC Cincinnati at Audi Field on Saturday night, looking to break a drei-match losing streak in Major League Soccer. The match is crucial for United, who currently sit 12th in the Eastern Conference with just six points from seven matches.

Last weekend, D.C. United suffered a crushing 6-1 defeat to the San Jose Earthquakes, marking their third consecutive loss. The performance was one of the team’s most disappointing, with their defense leaking 17 goals so far this season, the worst in the league.

“We have to continue to stay together, we have to continue to fight,” said D.C. United head coach Troy Lesesne. “We can’t let this snowball into more defeats.” United previously suffered heavy losses against Orlando City (4-1) and also against the New York Red Bulls. With only one win and three draws in their first seven matches, they are below CF Montreal, Toronto, and New England Revolution in the standings.

In contrast, FC Cincinnati is heading into the match with momentum after securing back-to-back victories, including a 1-0 win against New England Revolution last Sunday. Brazilian forward scored the winning goal, marking his contribution to the team’s recent successes. Cincinnati holds a fifth-place position in the Eastern Conference with 13 points, aiming to seize a third consecutive victory for the first time since August 2024.

Cincinnati head coach Pat Noonan expressed pride in his team’s ability to perform under pressure. “It’s one of our best wins,” he noted after the match against New England. “We were missing key players, but the group showed discipline and composure.”

United will be missing several key players, including American midfielder, who has been sidelined with a severe ankle injury. Additionally, another defender remains out due to a knee injury. Cincinnati faces its own injury concerns, with three players unavailable for selection this weekend.

The expected lineups for the match will see D.C. United deploying Kim in goal, followed by Dodson, Rowles, Bartlett, and Schnegg in defense. Cincinnati will likely start Celentano as goalkeeper, with Flores, Hagglund, Engel, and Yedlin forming their defensive line.

Despite recent struggles, D.C. United has a history of competitive encounters with Cincinnati, having gone unbeaten in ten of their last thirteen matchups since February 2019. However, their current form leaves fans questioning their chances of turning the tide.

As the two teams collide at Audi Field, D.C. United aims to restore pride, while FC Cincinnati looks to capitalize on their current form. With both clubs at opposing ends of the table, the match promises to be a high-stakes encounter.