Story of the Match
Major League Soccer action heats up on July 6 as Orlando City SC welcomes D.C. United to Inter & Co Stadium. Orlando, despite a season of ups and downs, has an opportunity to string together back-to-back wins for the first time this season. Victories in consecutive matches would be a major step forward in their quest for a playoff berth, solidifying their position in the Eastern Conference standings.
D.C. United, however, has a much steeper climb ahead. Unable to find a win in the last ten games, the Black-and-Red now sit at the bottom of the Eastern Conference table. With 20 points so far this season, they are currently level with the Philadelphia Union.
A halt to the winless streak is needed for Troy Lesesne and the squad to brighten up the season and start a positive turnaround in momentum. With two new signings, David Schnegg and Dominique Badji, the roster has been given some much-needed depth. Although, neither player will be able to see any action on the pitch until they receive their International Transfer Certificates (ITC).
The biggest bright spot for D.C. Untied heading into this match, is the return of striker Christian Benteke who missed the last two matches due to a red card and then yellow card accumulation.
Both teams will be tested by injuries heading into this pivotal matchup. D.C. United's backline has been hit particularly hard, with defender Steven Birnbaum being unavailable for selection the past five matches and with Garrison Tubbs missing the last two due to injury. Orlando will also miss the services of their starting right-back, Michael Halliday. These absences present vulnerabilities on both sides, and the team that can exploit them most effectively will have a significant advantage in securing a crucial three points.
By the Numbers
- D.C. United are ranked 4th in MLS averaging 5.8 accurate crosses per match; Orlando ranked 7th with 5.2 accurate crosses per match.
- Forward Christian Benteke's Goal Average over 90 minutes is 0.81 with 14 goals in 18 matches played. Also continues to lead the league in aerial duels with 265.
- The Black-and-Red are averaging 9.0 interceptions per match with a total of 198 interceptions. Orlando are averaging 7.1 interceptions per match with a total of 150.
- Midfielder Jared Stroud leads the team with eight assists this season and ranks 2nd in total shots with 35.
- D.C. United all-time regular season results against Orlando City SC is 9-7-2 with 31 goals scored and 27 goals against
Historical Match Ups
Since arriving in MLS in 2015, Orlando City SC and D.C. United have played a total of 19 times during the regular season, with the Black-and-Red holding the edge with a record of 9-3-7 (W-D-L).
Check out Gabriel Pirani's late goal after coming on as a substitute against FC Cincinnati:
