NYCFC vs D.C. United preview: Looking for the first win since July 3

New York City FC is still seeking the team’s first win since Major League Soccer resumed after the Leagues Cup.  In fact, NYCFC has been winless in the last six regular season games, with the last win coming against CF Montréal on July 3.  They might have had some success in the summer tournament, but their summer of MLS was not successful.

Therefore, the pressure to win on the road will be at an all-time high when NYCFC takes on D.C. United in the nation’s capital.  Except for the three road games in a row that the Pigeons won, being away from home is still a struggle.  There have been fixtures where the team should have won or at least came away with a draw, but that did not happen.

So, how can NYCFC beat D.C. United in their home stadium?  The answer is simple: score goals and do not give up goals late.  Giving up goals late has been a major problem for the backline.  It would also be good to score more than two goals, which they last did on June 28 against Orlando City SC.

There is plenty on the line in this weekend’s fixture.  Here is a preview of the upcoming match between NYCFC and D.C. United.

Date

NYCFC and D.C. United will face off on Saturday, September 14.

Time

The match is at 7:30 PM ET.                  

Location

The fixture will take place in Washington, D.C. at Audi Field.

How to watch

Fans can view the game on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass.

Weather

It will be a beautiful day for a game in the district.  When the match begins, it will be sunny and then a clear night as the sun sets.  It will be around 78 degrees with a slight breeze.                                                                 

Injury report

The injury report is interesting this week since many thought Matt Freese would be out due to an MCL sprain.  Instead, NYCFC has two players on the list: Malachi Jones (right leg) and Julián Fernández (red card suspension). 

Players to watch

NYCFC fans should watch Luis Barraza or Matt Freese, depending on who plays.  It would be wonderful if Freese is available since there was the fear he could be done for the year.  Thankfully, that is not the case.  Many thought he would not be available for this weekend, and perhaps it will be a game-time decision.  If Barraza does play, then everyone should watch to see whether he does better compared to his other matches played this year.

The player fans should pay attention to on D.C. is Christian Benteke.  The striker is the current Golden Boot leader and will be challenging to keep out of the back of the net.  However, the Bronx side shut him down during the April home match, so perhaps they can do it again.

Prediction

NYCFC needs to win but the road continues to be troublesome.  As such, the prediction is that the Pigeons will draw level with D.C. 1-1.  This time they will not give up the late goal and will instead hold on for the point.