WASHINGTON, D.C. — D.C. United will wrap up their 2026 Major League Soccer regular season at home tomorrow, Saturday, November 7, 2026, when they host New York City FC. The match represents the 34th and final game of the campaign for both clubs on what promises to be a high-stakes MLS Decision Day across the league.
Entering the final weekend with a 7-14-12 record (33 points), Head Coach René Weiler’s Black-and-Red squad is out of playoff contention but aims to finish the year on a high note in front of the home crowd. D.C. United looks to bounce back from a tough 3-0 road loss against the Columbus Crew and replicate the success of their previous meeting with NYCFC, which resulted in a 2-0 victory at Citi Field back in May. Meanwhile, New York City FC (9-12-12, 39 points) arrives in the District fighting to solidify their postseason positioning, led by the dangerous Nicolas Fernández, who has logged 16 goals and 10 assists this season.
DC United's Defender, Kimito Nono, was just named Player of the Month (October). That is quite the honor. The 24-year-old right back has been highly impactful since arriving from Japan's J1 League side Kashima Antlers. He put D.C. United on the board during a tense October 21 matchup against FC Cincinnati. His chemistry with teammate João Peglow peaked in October. The duo earned the team's "Connection of the Month" honors for a beautifully timed run and calm finish. His consistent individual efforts earned him a spot on the MLS Team of the Matchday roster during October.
Because DC United is out of the postseason picture, two of their players have decided to get needed surgeries and will be out tomorrow. Forward Tai Baribo underwent core muscle repair surgery this week. Dr. William Meyers of Vincera Institute in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania performed the surgery on Tuesday, November 3rd. Baribo is expected to be sidelined for two to three months as he completes rehabilitation. Goalkeeper Sean Johnson underwent knee arthroscopy surgery this week. Dr. Jeffrey Giuliani of Inova Sports Medicine performed the surgery on Tuesday, November 3rd at the Inova Loudoun Ambulatory Surgery Center. Johnson is expected to be sidelined for 6-10 weeks as he completes rehabilitation.
Auditioning for 2027: Building the Future
While the postseason is out of reach, tomorrow's finale serves as a vital proving ground for the 2027 roster. Head Coach René Weiler and the front office will treat this match as a live-game assessment to evaluate who fits into the club's long-term blueprint and who might be on the chopping block during the winter transfer window.
- Testing Youth and Depth: With the pressure of the playoff race lifted, expect to see extended minutes for academy products and reserve players looking to secure senior roster spots for next year.
- Evaluating Tactical Formations: Weiler has the flexibility to experiment with alternative tactical shapes and structural combinations against a playoff-caliber opponent, offering a preview of next season's potential identity.
- Deciding Contract Options: For players sitting on the roster bubble or facing dynamic option years, this final 90-minute audition is their last chance to prove their competitive value to the coaching staff.
Match Timings
- Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
- Gates Open: 2:30 PM EST
- Kickoff Time: 4:00 PM EST / 1:00 PM PST
- Venue: Audi Field, Washington, D.C.
Broadcasting & How to Watch
- Live Video Streaming: The match will broadcast live exclusively on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass. Fans can stream the full game along with pre-game and post-game analysis on any compatible smart TV, iOS device, or computer.
- English Radio: Live radio commentary will be available on the iHeartRadio App and locally on Freedom 104.7 FM. Legendary voice Dave Johnson will call the action alongside former USMNT player Bruce Murray.
- Local Audio Sync: Supporters watching the match on Apple TV's MLS Season Pass will also have the option to switch the audio track to the local D.C. United radio broadcast channel to hear Johnson and Murray's call synced directly to the live feed.