United hasn't won a game title in six attempts. Their current record is 0-1-5 and they've got a negative ten goal differential. The Red and Black started the month of August in beginning of the Eastern Conference, however, they've got fallen to fourth place and they are in danger of slipping out from the playoff picture.
United already have got 45 points and following your home match against NYCFC they merely have two games left in MLS season. Regardless of the struggles, if D.C. can take out a victory on Friday resistant to the expansion side, they'll clinch a place in the postseason. Losing the match might drop these phones sixth place when the Montreal Impact and Toronto FC win their matches last week.
That being said, United will require their goalie Bill Hamid to square tall as they faces NY’s resurgent attack. New York’s currently is on a three game winning streak where they have got outscored their opponents seven to 3. The expansion side offense is led by: David Villa, Frank Lampard and Andrea Pirlo. He will probably be busy, but when the midfield can contain this new confident attack, it can help decrease Hamid’s role.
At the very center of United's midfield, Perry Kitchen need to be certain that he prevents Lampard and Pirlo from developing any rhythm inside match. However, it doesn't matter how good United’s defense and midfield play, their forwards requires to return to scoring quickly. In their current six games slump, United just has scored three goals, it pretty sure that their offense is lacking a punch. Forwards like: Chris Rolfe, Álvaro Saborío and Fabián Espíndola need to break their slump on Friday should they want to get over New York in your house.
As for NYCFC, it is simple whenever they lose this match then they'll need the Philadelphia Union to defeat Toronto at BMO Field on Saturday. Then New York need a favor from fellow expansion club, Orlando City SC, to get over Montreal on the Citrus Bowl on Saturday simply to keep their playoff hopes alive. In other words, New York needs to win with just two games remaining left inside the regular season there is absolutely no room for error.
Prediction: D.C. United 2-0 New York City FC
United understands that they are just three points far from qualifying towards the playoffs. In front of these home fans, the Red and Black will have inspired and appearance to break down the NYCFC defense. New York’s goalie, Josh Saunders, is playing now this season and contains done his share to aid his club fight for any postseason berth. However, their playoff lives can come to an end on Friday at RFK Stadium.
