D.C. United will look to bounce back from a heavy road defeat against Inter Miami CF when they host the New York Red Bulls at Audi Field on Wednesday, Oct. 14. Head coach René Weiler is calling for a response from his squad.
“We have to show a reaction and we want to show a reaction because there’s another opportunity next Wednesday against an opponent closer to our level,” Weiler said.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 pm ET as the Black-and-Red return home following a 4-0 loss at Nu Stadium in Miami on Saturday, Oct. 10. The defeat left United in 12th place in the Eastern Conference standings with 30 points from 27 matches. Meanwhile, the Red Bulls sit in eighth with 36 points from 28 games.
Contrasting Form Heading Into Wednesday
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Weiler emphasized the importance of responding to Saturday’s defeat. He also pointed to the opportunities that New York’s aggressive style of play could create.
The two sides have experienced contrasting fortunes in recent weeks. United has managed just one victory in their last five league matches, with two draws and two defeats. On the other hand, the Red Bulls enter Wednesday’s contest off a commanding 4-1 victory over San Diego FC on Oct. 10.
Despite their position in the standings, United have shown attacking promise. That was especially true in their previous meeting with New York on April 22, when the teams played out an entertaining 4-4 draw at Sports Illustrated Stadium.
Forward Tai Baribo scored a hat trick as United twice recovered from two-goal deficits to secure a point. Jackson Hopkins also found the back of the net, while New York’s Jorge Ruvalcaba scored twice for the hosts.
Weiler Sees Room to Counter
Weiler believes the Red Bulls’ willingness to take tactical risks could give his side chances on the counterattack. However, defensive discipline will remain a priority.
“I remember the game we played there, it’s a very open game,” Weiler said. “It gives us some more chances to play the counter-attack, but first of all we have to defend it well.”
Defensive improvements will be important following United’s recent defeat in Miami, where footballing legends Luis Suárez and Lionel Messi each scored twice. The result marked the fourth consecutive league match without a victory for Weiler’s side.
Lineup Changes Possible
United could also make changes to their starting lineup after the short turnaround between fixtures. Weiler acknowledged the importance of managing his players’ fitness, suggesting squad rotation remains a possibility.
“We have to manage the workload of the entire team,” Weiler said. “Of course there is a possibility that other players are going to start the game next Wednesday.”
Weiler also confirmed that Montellano will remain unavailable for Wednesday’s match, ruling out a return from injury.
United’s home record offers some encouragement, with four wins, five draws and five defeats at Audi Field this season. In contrast, New York have won five of their 14 away matches.
With six points separating the two sides in the Eastern Conference, Wednesday’s match gives United a chance to close the gap on New York. It is also a chance to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
“We know how they play and everybody knows how they play,” Weiler said. “So we want to play a good game ourselves.”
Wednesday’s fixture will also feature the club’s Noche Latina celebration at Audi Field, recognizing the Latino community in Washington, D.C.
For more on the Red Bulls matchup and D.C. United, check out more soccer coverage on Fox Sports 1340.