DC United vs. New York City FC: Preview and How To Watch

Apr 1, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; D.C. United forward Jose Guillermo Ortiz (9) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Philadelphia Union during the first half at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; D.C. United forward Jose Guillermo Ortiz (9) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Philadelphia Union during the first half at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports

This Saturday, DC United hosts New York City FC at RFK stadium in their second match up of the season. We preview the game, including details on how to watch.

The last time DC United played New York City FC, DCU put on a display of all its weaknesses while NYCFC showed off its greatest strengths. DCU had been dealing with defensive midfielder woes, a stagnant offense, and a backline in progress.

NYCFC, on the other hand, had electric wingers, a dominant midfield, and a top tier striker in David Villa. While DCU has started to slowly put things together offensively, NYCFC has continued to make a case as one of the best teams in MLS

Who to watch from DC United

Apr 1, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; D.C. United forward Jose Guillermo Ortiz (9) shoots the ball in front of Philadelphia Union defender Fabinho (33) during the first half at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; D.C. United forward Jose Guillermo Ortiz (9) shoots the ball in front of Philadelphia Union defender Fabinho (33) during the first half at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports

DC United is still without Patrick Mullins, but last week Jose Ortiz proved himself in a big way with a debut goal in his first start. Ortiz will look to continue the momentum as he builds chemistry with Luciano Acosta and rookie Ian Harkes but will be looking to wingers Lloyd Sam and Patrick Nyarko to keep the offense moving at a fast pace.

Who to watch from New York City FC

Apr 1, 2017; New York, NY, USA; NYCFC midfielder Maximiliano Moralez (10) celebrates with midfielder Thomas McNamara (15) after his goal against San Jose Earthquakes during second half at Yankee Stadium. New York City FC defeated San Jose Earthquakes 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2017; New York, NY, USA; NYCFC midfielder Maximiliano Moralez (10) celebrates with midfielder Thomas McNamara (15) after his goal against San Jose Earthquakes during second half at Yankee Stadium. New York City FC defeated San Jose Earthquakes 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

New York City FC is seemingly overflowing with offensive talent which will be looking to take advantage of DCU’s questionable backline. David Villa will again be looking for a multiple goal game against DCU and Andrea Pirlo will be looking to make the most of rookie mistakes Ian Harkes might make.

Other than those two stars, Tommy McNamara has continued to make an impact off the bench, including a recent goal against the San Jose Earthquakes. Look for him to cause trouble for a tired and disoriented DCU defense.

Prediction

NYCFC has been the better team this season, but DC United knows that it needs to continue the good results it began last week. Playing at home after being embarrassed, DCU is likely to focus on defense and force quality attacking opportunities. NYCFC will still have its chance to take advantage of DCU’s struggling and rotating backline, so expect goals from both teams in a draw.

Final Score: 2-2

Next: MLS Power Rankings Week 5: Can Portland Stay On Top For Third Straight Week?

Where to watch

Kickoff: 4:00 pm EST

This game is the match of the week for the new UniMas / Facebook Live deal. For local options, the match will be on ABC7 and NewsChannel8 in the DC area. In the New York Area, you can watch the game on Unimas and WBQU. As always you can see every league game via MLS LIVE.