The MLS Eastern vs. Western Conference clash heats up as D.C. United hosts Austin FC at Audi Field on Saturday, July 26, 2025. With D.C. United desperate to end an eight-match winless streak and Austin FC pushing for playoff security, this Major League Soccer fixture offers high stakes and contrasting narratives.
Match Details
Fixture: D.C. United vs. Austin FC
Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025
Kickoff Time: 7:30 PM ET
Venue: Audi Field, Washington, D.C.
Broadcast: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
Team Form & Standings
| Team | Record | Points | Last 5 Matches | Conference Rank |
| D.C. United | 4-13-7 | 19 | L-L-L-L-D | 14th (East) |
| Austin FC | 8-8-6 | 30 | W-L-W-D-W | 8th (West) |
D.C. United has not won since June 1 and has lost 7 of their last 8 matches.
Austin FC is unbeaten in 3 of their last 4 and recently defeated LA Galaxy 2–1.
Tactical Breakdown & Key Players
D.C. United
Interim Manager: Kevin Flanagan
Formation: 4-1-4-1
Key Players:
Christian Benteke – 7 goals; aerial threat and clinical finisher
Gabriel Pirani – 4 goals in last 10 games
Luis Barraza – 63 saves in last 17 appearances
Strategy:
Direct play through Benteke
Defensive vulnerabilities in wide areas
Struggles in transition and late-game collapses
Austin FC
Manager: Nico Estévez
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Key Players:
Myrto Uzuni – 1 goal, 1 assist vs. LA Galaxy; emerging striker
Owen Wolff – 4 assists; dynamic midfield engine
Brad Stuver – 8 clean sheets; MLS All-Star goalkeeper
Strategy:
Possession-based buildup with quick flank play
Strong defensive shape (only 24 goals conceded in 22 matches)
Depth in midfield with Ilie Sánchez and Dani Pereira
Injury & Suspension Report
D.C. United:
Aaron Herrera – SUSPENDED (red card)
Kristian Fletcher – OUT (ACL)
Lukas MacNaughton – DOUBTFUL (thigh)
Jacob Murrell – OUT
Austin FC:
Brandon Vazquez – OUT (ACL tear)
MATCH ODDS
D. C. United + 145 Draw + 225 Austin FC + 165
Over 2.5 – 115 Under 2.5 – 115
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, July 25, 2025
