D.C. United has to bounce back quickly after having a five-game unbeaten streak broken, as tonight’s game against the Philadelphia Union is likely to be pivotal for both teams. A win could get the Black-and-Red within three points of the final playoff berth in MLS’s Eastern Conference and within six of Philadelphia. Meanwhile, a victory for the Union would push Philly within 1 point of Columbus in 4th, essentially turning the “five teams battling for two playoff spots” narrative in the East into a situation where four teams are vying for 6th place.
To get a vital win, United needs to reverse some unpleasant recent history against the Union.