D.C. United returns to Buzzard Point looking to bounce back and earn crucial points against Nashville SC, who sit in third place in the Eastern Conference. The Black-and-Red aim to capitalize on a Nashville team coming off a midweek road win and quick turnaround, while also trying to end Nashville’s impressive 12-game unbeaten streak.

This matchup comes just six weeks after the Black-and-Red played to a 0-0 draw with Nashville at GEODIS Park. Goalkeeper Luis Barraza kept a clean sheet for D.C. with crucial saves to hold off a fiery Nashville attack. Head coach Troy Lesesne emphasized this week that the focus is squarely on delivering consistency and capitalizing on the opportunities ahead, including the MLS playoff race and the U.S. Open Cup.

“The opportunity’s there, and that’s the approach we’re taking 100%,” Lesesne said. “If we can accomplish that target… we’re taking the right steps toward success in 2025.”

Lesesne could get a boost in squad depth this week with the return of players from international duty, including Matti Peltola (Finland U-21), Kye Rowles (Australia), and Boris Enow (Cameroon). Another potential boost for the Black-and-Red? Key players returning to practice (and possibly the pitch) after being sidelined with injuries, including Christian Benteke and João Peglow.

Hear everything Head Coach Troy Lesesne had to say at the pre-game press conference here.

Let us know your thoughts about tonight’s match in the comments below and be sure to join us live here during the game to chat with your fellow supporters.

Key Player: Luis Barraza

With Nashville’s offensive dream team on deck, the Black-and-Red will look to Luis Barraza to pull off a repeat performance and keep a clean sheet. With 49 saves across 12 matches this season, Barraza is up to the task. 

Watch Out For: Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar 

Nashville’s offensive engine is firing on all cylinders. Sam Surridge leads MLS with 15 goals and is coming off a hat trick against New England, while Hany Mukhtar, the 2022 MLS MVP, continues to be one of the league’s most dangerous creators with 11 assists and 42 shots on target. Slowing down this duo is non-negotiable if D.C. wants a result.

Challenges: Nashville arrives in peak form, unbeaten in 12 straight matches, where they’ve racked up 27 goals. The quick turnaround after a midweek game might offer D.C. an edge in energy levels, but Nashville’s cohesion, fitness, and depth make them a formidable opponent. The Black-and-Red must also contend with the absence of key players, including Aaron Herrera, still away with Guatemala at the Gold Cup, and potentially Christian Benteke and João Peglow, who are questionable for tonight’s match.

Previously: The first leg of the series between D.C. and Nashville on May 17 ended in a 0-0 stalemate at GEODIS Park. The Black-and-Red leaned on goalkeeper Luis Barraza, who recorded five saves to secure the clean sheet. Both sides struggled to create clear chances, with D.C. registering just three shots and 45.8% possession.

D.C. United Availability

Out: Aaron Herrera (International – Guatemala), Kristian Fletcher (knee), Lukas McNaughton (thigh)

Questionable: Christian Benteke (ankle), João Peglow (thigh)

Nashville SC Availability

Out: Tyler Boyd (knee), Maximus Ekk (knee), Wyatt Meyer (hamstring), Tate Schmitt (hamstring), Jacob Shaffelburg (international duty), Taylor Washington (knee), Walker Zimmerman (international duty)

Questionable: None

Location: Audi Field, Washington, DC
Kickoff time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Referee: Ricardo Fierro
Available streaming: MLS Season Pass on Apple TV