DC United vs. Sporting KC: Preview & How To Watch
This Saturday, DC United hosts Sporting Kansas City in its final home opener at RFK stadium. Here, we preview the game with details on how to watch.
13 years ago, whispers of a new MLS stadium in Washington DC began to build, with the belief that within 3-5 years DC United would move out of RFK Stadium, built in 1961, into a new soccer specific stadium of its own. However, with the red tape and bureaucracy that bogs down many development efforts in our nations capital, it took a while for construction to begin, with shovels first hitting the ground this Monday.
Claiming this season to be the final season at RFK stadium, vets and homegrown players who were raised watching and respecting this stadium are hoping to give it a worthy farewell this season, kicking off with the season opener at home against Sporting Kansas City.
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Sporting Kansas City had a tumultuous year in 2016, with a 13-8-13 record, losing controversially in the first round of the playoffs against eventual MLS Cup winners Seattle Sounders. DC United’s season wasn’t much different, with a first round loss in the playoffs as well. The critical difference between the two, if there is one, is that Sporting Kansas City peaked early in the season, while DC United peaked heavily towards the end of theirs.
Who to watch from Sporting Kansas City
The usual suspects for this team are World Cup Veterans Matt Besler (Defender) and Graham Zusi (Midfielder turned Defender), resurgent USMNT player Benny Feilhaber (Midfielder), new Designated Player Gerso Fernandes (Winger), and prolific striker Dom Dwyer. A stout defense with great attacking strength, the question for this team is how well can they all play together early in the season and how will Zusi contribute to the team as his position on the flanks may be changing with his club team.
Who to watch from DC United
DC United is fortunate in that Bill Hamid (Goalkeeper) is returning for the opening game despite a preseason injury. An incredible shot stopper, keep an eye open on players who recently resigned for long contracts including Steve Birnbaum (Defender), Luciano Acosta (Midfielder), and Patrick Mullins (Striker). This team was high scoring at the end of 2016, but it’s difficult to anticipate how productive wingers Sam and Nyarko will be in their age, and how strong the defense will be with new CB Franklin and RB DeLeon, two mainstays for the team playing in new positions.
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Prediction
I think DC United is coming into this season with something to prove, with depth in which each player knows they could be out of the starting XI next week. With a lot of pressure and excitement to send RFK off with the best possible season, I’m expecting a strong start against a team which may still be finding its identity and chemistry. I’m going with DC United 2-1.
Where to watch
Kickoff: 7pm EST