Austin FC vs. D.C. United: Can Austin Keep Rolling?

Austin FC heads to D.C. United for a Saturday night clash, with both teams in drastically different situations. Austin is riding high after hosting a successful MLS All-Star Game, while D.C. United is struggling through a difficult patch. Let's break down what to expect.

Austin FC: Building on Momentum

Austin FC is looking to capitalize on the positive energy surrounding the club after the All-Star break. Goalkeeper Brad Stuver, a fan favorite, is a key player. His outstanding performance this season, including eight clean sheets, is a major reason for Austin's playoff contention.

Coach Josh Wolff will be aiming to solidify their playoff position with a win on the road. A victory against a struggling D.C. United would be a significant boost as they approach the season's final stretch.

D.C. United: Searching for a Spark

D.C. United is in a tough spot, currently without a permanent manager and on a long winless streak. Interim head coach Kevin Flanagan is optimistic, citing positive training sessions. He emphasizes focusing on improving performance in all aspects of the game and identifying areas to exploit against Austin.

Since June 1st, D.C. United has struggled, with six losses and one draw across all competitions. Their most recent defeat was a 2-1 loss to the Columbus Crew. Flanagan is hoping to turn things around, but faces an uphill battle against a confident Austin FC side.

Key Matchup

This game presents a crucial opportunity for Austin FC to gain valuable points on the road against a weaker opponent. They need to take advantage of these opportunities if they hope to secure a playoff spot. For D.C. United, it's about finding any sign of improvement and building momentum for the remainder of the season. The pressure is on D.C. to defend their home turf and show resilience against a motivated Austin FC team.