Match Preview: DC United vs Houston Dynamo FC, June 22, 2024

DC United will face Houston Dynamo FC on Saturday, June 22 in an important match for both teams’ playoff ambitions. This game also marks the return of club legend Ben Olsen, who is the head coach of Houston. Olsen spent 11 years as a player for DC United, helping the club win two MLS Cup championships (’99 and ’04) and served as head coach from 2010-2020.

DC United are winless in their last seven matches and have slipped down the Eastern Conference standings, managing to gain just two points in their previous seven matches. After failing to score against Atlanta United FC earlier in the week, Christian Benteke and the Black and Red offense are eager to bounce back and score some goals.

Despite their recent struggles, Troy Lesesne’s team remains optimistic as they are still within reach of a playoff spot, with Atlanta United FC and Philadelphia Union just one point ahead in the standings of the Eastern Conference. Forward Christian Benteke hopes to add to his 13 goals this season and keep him in the race for the MLS Golden Boot.

For their part, Houston Dynamo FC currently occupies eighth place in the Western Conference of Major League Soccer with 24 points and a record of 6-6-6. Houston’s leading scorer Latif Blessing will look to score his 6th goal of the 2024 campaign when he visits Audi Field. Although Houston has a slight advantage in goal differential, DC United has scored 25 goals in total, three goals more than Dynamo this season.

This matchup is crucial for both teams as they desperately need a win to increase their chances of making the playoffs. DC United will rely on their home-field advantage, while Houston will be motivated to score points on the road.

It was a rare east-west clash that saw the Houston Dynamo hold a slight advantage over the Black and Red. In 29 matches all-time, DC United holds a record of 7-16-6 (WLD).