The Black-and-Red host rivals the New York Red Bulls Sunday, Sept. 16 at 1 PM ET at Audi Field. Here's what to know about the opposition ahead of this weekend's showdown.
Standings
The New York Red Bulls are currently no. 1 in the Eastern Conference standings and have clinched a spot in the 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs. D.C. United currently sit in the seventh slot in the East, and are looking to gain three more points against their rivals as they continue their push toward the playoff line.
Players to Watch
The Red Bulls have a variety of goal scorers at their disposal, increasing United's need to be ready to defend on all fronts. Bradley-Wright Phillips leads the team in goals with 16 this season, and Alejandro Romero Gamarra, aka Kaku, leads the league in assists with 14.
But as the saying goes, defenses win championships, and New York has had one of the stingiest defenses all season. With standouts like Tim Parker and Aaron Long, United will have to remain sharp and disciplined to unlock New York’s backline.
Recent Matches
New York are 2-1-2 in their last five matches, with their most recent game being a 3-0 loss to the Montreal Impact. Across those games, they have scored five goals and allowed six. D.C. United are also 2-1-2 in their last five matches, with their most recent game being a 2-1 win over Minnesota United on Wednesday night. D.C. have scored six goals and allowed six goals across those matches, and enter Sunday with three days of rest—the Red Bulls are coming off of a 15-day break since their loss to the Impact.
Head-to-Head
This will be United’s third time facing off against the New York Red Bulls this season. The Red Bulls have won both of this season’s matchups 1-0, with goals from Bradley-Wright Phillips and Kaku. D.C. will be looking to change that narrative when they take the field this Sunday in the second match of their seven-game homestand.
