The upcoming clash between Orlando City and DC United promises to be an exciting fixture in Major League Soccer.
Scheduled for Saturday night at the Inter&Co Stadium, this match is crucial for both teams as they look to improve their standings in the Eastern Conference. Here's an in-depth look at the teams, their current form, news, and predictions.
Team Form and Recent Performance
Orlando City
Orlando City is aiming to secure consecutive league victories for the first time in 2024. The team recently ended a five-game winless streak by winning two out of their last three matches.
Their latest victory was a narrow 2-1 win against Toronto FC, which was crucial in keeping their playoff hopes alive. Currently, Orlando sits 10th in the Eastern Conference table, trailing ninth-placed Atlanta United only on goal difference.
Key players for Orlando include Duncan McGuire, who has managed to score seven goals in 18 MLS appearances, showing resilience after a failed transfer to Blackburn Rovers.
However, the Lions have struggled at home, securing only nine points from 10 home matches.
DC United
DC United, under the leadership of Troy Lesesne, has experienced a challenging season.
They are currently at the bottom of the Eastern Conference with a 10-game winless streak. Their latest defeat was a 3-2 loss to FC Cincinnati, despite putting up a strong fight.
Christian Benteke has been a standout player for DC United, netting 14 goals in 18 appearances and remaining a contender for the MLS Golden Boot.
Despite their poor overall performance, DC United has managed to be somewhat competitive away from home, drawing five of their 10 away matches.
Team News and Lineups
Orlando City
Orlando City will be missing goalkeeper Mason Stajduhar due to a leg injury, but they will have their first-choice goalkeeper Pedro Gallese back after Peru's early exit from the Copa America.
Michael Halliday remains sidelined with a knee injury, giving Iceland international Dagur Dan Thorhallsson the opportunity to start at right-back.
DC United
DC United faces significant injury concerns, particularly in defence and midfield.
Garrison Tubbs and Steven Birnbaum are both out, while Jackson Hopkins and Russell Canouse continue to recover from their injuries.
Key Players to Watch
Duncan McGuire (Orlando City)
McGuire has been a crucial player for Orlando City, especially after overcoming the disappointment of a failed transfer.
His ability to find the back of the net will be essential for Orlando's success in this match.
Christian Benteke (DC United)
Despite DC United's poor season, Benteke has been a shining light with his goal-scoring prowess.
His performance will be vital if DC United hopes to upset Orlando.
Match Prediction
Given Orlando City's recent improvement and DC United's ongoing struggles, Orlando is favoured to win this match.
Orlando's inconsistent home form could be a concern, but facing the bottom team in the conference gives them a solid chance to secure a victory.
Our Prediction: Orlando City 2-1 DC United
D.C. United 
Orlando City 
