The thrilling MLS Eastern Conference rivalry between DC United vs Philadelphia Union is set for Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET. The match at Audi Field in Washington, D.C. features a struggling DC United team looking to turn their season around, taking on a Philadelphia Union side aiming for a strong finish and a shot at the Supporters’ Shield.
D.C. United has faced recent setbacks, including a 3-2 loss to Inter Miami CF where Lionel Messi scored a brace, marking their first defeat under new coach René Weiler.
The club parted ways with general manager Ally Mackay and hired Dr. Erkut Sogut as managing director of soccer operations amid ownership scrutiny. Forward Murrell has contributed two goals and three assists in 22 appearances, approaching a career-best, while the team focuses on rebuilding after a tough 2025 campaign.
Philadelphia Union secured a crucial 1-0 home win over New England Revolution, with Bruno Damiani’s second-half goal helping maintain their grip on the Supporters’ Shield race.
The team celebrated Kick Childhood Cancer weekend and emphasized their home dominance. Despite an earlier 7-0 loss to Vancouver Whitecaps, recent form shows resilience, with locker room reactions highlighting the importance of the victory as they head into the final matches of 2025.
DC United vs Philadelphia Union Match Preview
As the 2025 MLS regular season concludes, this Eastern Conference clash at Audi Field could impact playoff positioning, with Philadelphia Union chasing the Supporters’ Shield and D.C. United is seeking a morale-boosting win.
Expect a competitive game given the rivalry, but Philly’s form and defensive solidity may give them the edge over a rebuilding D.C. side.
Team News and Analysis
D.C. United enters with no major reported injuries but under pressure after recent losses and front-office changes. Their attack relies on players like Benteke, but defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed. The focus is on home form to salvage pride in a disappointing season.
Philadelphia Union has a healthy squad following their recent win, with emphasis on maintaining momentum. Coach Jim Curtin’s side has shown defensive resilience and attacking threats, positioning them well for a road victory despite the rivalry’s intensity.
Head-to-Head Record
Philadelphia Union holds a strong edge in the head-to-head record against D.C. United, with 22 wins to D.C.’s 10 and 8 draws across 40 meetings. Matches average 3.10 goals, often high-scoring. Philly’s recent 3-0 victory in April 2025 highlights their dominance in this fixture.
| Date | Competition | Result | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 26, 2025 | MLS Regular Season | Philadelphia Union 3-0 D.C. United | Subaru Park |
| (Historical Average) | MLS | Philadelphia Wins: 22, Draws: 8, D.C. Wins: 10 | Various |
DC United vs Philadelphia Union Predicted XI Lineups
D.C. United Predicted XI (4-3-3):
- Barraza; Antley, Bartlett, Rowles, Schnegg; Enow, Pirani, Servania; Herrera, Benteke, Peglow.
This lineup focuses on a solid backline with Benteke leading the attack, aiming to exploit counter-opportunities at home.
Philadelphia Union Predicted XI (4-4-2 diamond):
- Blake; Wagner, Glesnes, Harriel, Makhanya; Bueno, Flach, Sullivan; Gazdag; Uhre, Baribo.
Philly’s formation emphasizes midfield control and wing play, with Gazdag pulling strings for the forwards
Key Players
For D.C. United, Christian Benteke is the focal point with his goal-scoring threat, supported by Gabriel Pirani’s creativity in midfield. Luis Barraza’s goalkeeping could be crucial in keeping the game close.
Philadelphia Union’s Andre Blake provides elite shot-stopping, while Jakob Glesnes anchors the defense. Bruno Damiani and Dániel Gazdag offer attacking flair, with recent contributions highlighting their importance.
DC United vs Philadelphia Union Match Prediction
Philadelphia Union is predicted to win 2-1, capitalizing on their superior form and historical edge, with a 46% chance of victory. Expect over 2.5 goals given the rivalry’s scoring history, though D.C.’s home crowd could make it competitive.
Where to Watch DC United vs Philadelphia Union
In the U.S., the DC United vs Philadelphia Union game will be available exclusively on Apple TV through the MLS Season Pass. Coverage begins at 7:30 PM ET, with no national TV broadcast.
For live scores and highlights, visit ESPN or the official MLS website.