D.C. United Prepares for 2025 Opener Against Rebuilding Toronto FC

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season kicks off for D.C. United this Saturday, as they face Toronto FC at Audi Field at 7:30 p.m. ET. The match marks the beginning of a critical new chapter for both clubs, albeit with different aspirations.

D.C. United, aiming to bounce back from a disappointing end to the 2024 season that saw them miss the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year, has revamped its roster in hopes of returning to form. Last season ended in heartbreak with a 3-0 loss to Charlotte FC on Decision Day. However, renewed optimism surrounds the club, thanks to significant offseason changes and new signings.

Head coach Troy Lesesne and Chief Soccer Officer Ally Mackay have worked diligently to bolster the roster ahead of the new season. D.C. welcomes new international players, including South Korean goalkeeper Kim Joon Hong and Australian center back Kye Rowles, along with Brazilian winger João Peglow. Moreover, the team has secured trades for midfielder Hosei Kijima from St. Louis CITY FC and defender Derek Dodson from Minnesota United.

Key returning players include Christian Benteke, the 2024 MLS Golden Boot winner, who signed a contract extension through 2025. Brazilian midfielder Gabriel Pirani, who made an impact last season, is also expected to contribute significantly. Captain Lucas Barlett, coming off a breakout season, will help solidify the team’s backline.

The Black-and-Red underwent warm-weather preseason training in Florida, allowing players to establish camaraderie. This preparation was evident in a recent friendly, where D.C. United defeated the Houston Dynamo 3-1, showcasing their potential for the upcoming season.

Conversely, Toronto FC enters the 2025 campaign under new head coach Robin Fraser after a challenging previous season that ended with an 11th-place finish in the Eastern Conference. The team concluded 2024 with an overall record of 11-19-4, failing to qualify for the playoffs.

Fraser’s main objective is to rebuild the squad and restore Toronto FC’s competitive edge. “It’s a new season, D.C. is a good team, they have the top scorer in the league, Christian Benteke, this is going to be a huge test for us,” Fraser said as he prepares for the opener.

The team’s recent preseason training included phases in both Marbella, Spain, and Palm Springs, Florida, where they focused on integrating new additions. Toronto has welcomed Canadian international Theo Corbeanu from Granada CF, Norwegian striker Ola Brynhildsen from FC Midtjylland, and two homegrown players: goalkeeper Adisa De Rosario and midfielder Marcus Cimermancic.

Captain Jonathan Osorio expressed confidence in the team’s progress, stating, “We’ve made good steps from the first day of preseason up to now. The group has worked really hard, and the new additions have come in with a great attitude.” He emphasized that the team’s unity is crucial for success in the forthcoming season.

Saturday’s match promises to set the tone for both clubs as they embark on their respective journeys. While D.C. United aims for playoff contention, Toronto FC seeks to redefine its identity and find success amid rebuilding efforts. The road to achieving their goals starts at Audi Field this weekend.