The Philadelphia Union and D.C. United are set to face off in an Eastern Conference MLS matchup on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 PM ET. This game features two teams with contrasting starts to the season, making it a pivotal contest for both sides.
Team Overview:
Philadelphia Union:
The Union enter the game with a 5-3-1 record, sitting in fifth place in the Eastern Conference standings. Philadelphia is coming off an emphatic 3-0 victory over Atlanta United, where they showcased their attacking prowess and defensive discipline. The Union have been one of the most productive teams offensively, leading the Eastern Conference with 16 goals scored. Tai Baribo has been the standout performer, netting seven goals in eight matches, making him one of the league’s top scorers. Philadelphia’s defense has also been solid, conceding just nine goals in nine matches, ranking them among the best in MLS. Head coach Bradley Carnell will look to build on the team’s momentum as they aim to climb higher in the standings.
D.C. United:
D.C. United has had a challenging start to the season, holding a 2-4-3 record and sitting in 13th place in the Eastern Conference. Despite their struggles, the team is coming off a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls, where João Peglow scored both goals, including a spectacular bicycle kick. Christian Benteke, the team’s leading scorer with five goals this season, remains a key figure, but his availability is uncertain after exiting the last match due to injury. D.C. United’s defense has been a concern, conceding 19 goals in nine matches, the most in MLS. Interim coach Kerry Zavagnin will need to address these defensive issues to give his team a chance against a strong Philadelphia side.
Key Players to Watch:
Philadelphia Union:
- Tai Baribo: The forward has been in sensational form, leading the team with seven goals this season. His ability to find the back of the net will be crucial.
- Quinn Sullivan: The young midfielder has been a creative force, contributing five assists and adding dynamism to the Union’s attack.
- Jakob Glesnes: The defender anchors Philadelphia’s backline, providing stability and leadership.
D.C. United:
- João Peglow: The Brazilian forward is coming off a two-goal performance and will look to build on that momentum.
- Christian Benteke: If fit, the veteran striker’s physical presence and finishing ability make him a constant threat.
- Luis Barraza: The goalkeeper will need to deliver a standout performance to keep D.C. United in the game.
Matchup Analysis:
Offense vs. Defense:
Philadelphia’s high-powered offense, led by Baribo and Sullivan, will test D.C. United’s shaky defense, which has struggled to contain opposing attacks. Conversely, D.C. United’s attack, bolstered by Peglow and potentially Benteke, will face a disciplined Union backline.
Home Advantage:
The Union have been dominant at Subaru Park, boasting a 12-3-1 record against D.C. United at home since 2011. This strong home form gives Philadelphia a significant edge.
Momentum:
Philadelphia enters the game with confidence after a commanding win over Atlanta, while D.C. United will look to build on their recent victory over the Red Bulls. However, the Union’s consistency and overall form make them the favorites.
MATCH ODDS
Philadelphia Union – 140 Draw + 290 D.C. United + 310
Over 2.5 – 175 Under 2.5 + 135
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 25, 2025
