Match Preview: D.C. United vs. Orlando City SC | Saturday, April 25, 2026

Match Preview: D.C. United vs. Orlando City SC | Saturday, April 25, 2026

D.C. United return to Audi Field this Saturday, April 25 for an Eastern Conference matchup against Orlando City SC in the club's tenth match of the 2026 MLS season. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET in Washington, D.C. The Black-and-Red enter the weekend at 2-4-3 with nine points, looking to build on Wednesday's dramatic comeback draw at the New York Red Bulls and earn three points in front of the home faithful.

Wednesday's 4-4 draw at Sports Illustrated Stadium showed the character of this group. Forward Tai Baribo delivered a hat trick as the Black-and-Red twice battled back from two goals down to secure a point in Harrison. Baribo now leads the club with six goals through nine matches and will look to carry that form into Saturday's home contest. Head Coach René Weiler will look to generate a consistent performance across 90 minutes against an Orlando side that arrives with momentum of its own after a midweek result. Saturday also marks Talons Birthday theme night at Audi Field, giving fans an added reason to be loud and back the Black-and-Red.

Orlando City SC arrive in the nation's capital under interim head coach Martín Perelman, who took charge on March 11 following the departure of Óscar Pareja after six seasons leading the club. The Lions sit at 2-6-1 with seven points in the Eastern Conference after securing a 4-1 victory at Charlotte FC on Wednesday, with forward Martín Ojeda scoring twice in the win. Ojeda leads Orlando with four goals and 26 shots through nine matches and has been the driving force of the Lions' attack all season, ranking among the league leaders in corner kicks taken with 25. Midfielder Ivan Angulo has provided the creativity to set up chances, leading Orlando with five assists in 2026. Forward Duncan McGuire offers a physical presence up front and has been sharp in front of goal this season. Goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau has started eight of nine matches but carries a 2.79 GAA, and Orlando have conceded 26 goals on the year, giving D.C. United reason for optimism in the attacking third.

Saturday's match is the first meeting between the two clubs in the 2026 MLS regular season. The all-time regular season series is tied 9-9-3, with D.C. United holding a 5-3-2 record against the Lions at Audi Field.

By the Numbers:

• The all-time regular season series between D.C. United and Orlando City SC is tied 9-9-3. D.C. United hold a 5-3-2 record against the Lions at Audi Field.
• Forward Tai Baribo leads D.C. United with six goals in eight appearances this season.
• Forward Duncan McGuire leads all current Orlando City SC players with three goals in six career appearances against D.C. United.
• Forward Martín Ojeda leads all current Orlando City SC players with two goals and three assists in six career appearances against D.C. United.
• Forward Martín Ojeda leads Orlando City SC with four goals and 26 shots through nine matches in 2026.
• Orlando City SC have conceded 26 goals through nine matches in 2026, posting a 2.89 goals against average as a team.

Last Match Against Orlando City SC | September 13, 2025 at Audi Field

In the most recent meeting on September 13, 2025, D.C. United and Orlando City SC played to a 1-1 draw at Audi Field. Midfielder Jackson Hopkins gave the Black-and-Red the lead in the 33rd minute, assisted by Conner Antley, but Orlando equalized to earn a point and share the spoils. D.C. United will look to convert a similar showing into three points when the two clubs meet again on Saturday.

How to Watch

D.C. United fans can catch all the action of their favorite team on Apple TV. With this, you can watch every D.C. United match live, whether it’s home or away, along with exclusive pre- and post-match coverage. Simply open the Apple TV app, navigate to MLS Season Pass, and enjoy the entire 2026 season. Whether you're at home or on the go, you'll have access to every match, ensuring you never miss a moment of D.C. United's season. Enjoy seamless streaming on your Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, and more!   

Radio broadcasts will be available live on the iHeartRadio App and Freedom 104.7 FM. Legendary broadcaster Dave Johnson, who has called matches for D.C. United since the club’s inception in 1996 will return to the booth alongside Bruce Murray, former United States National Team player (1985-1993, 85 caps and 21 goals) and Class of 2011 National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee. The pair have partnered on radio calls since 2023 to deliver high-quality and passionate radio calls for fans. Supporters watching D.C. United MLS Regular Season matches on MLS Season Pass can opt to listen to Dave Johnson and Bruce Murray calling the match on the MLS Local Radio Broadcast channel.