DC United vs New York Red Bulls Prediction & Picks - Major League Soccer

Prediction published on 5/24/25, 4:01 PM  by Erik Gibbs in Major League Soccer Picks

DC United and the New York Red Bulls will renew their rivalry on Saturday at Audi Field in a highly anticipated Atlantic Cup clash. While the fixture traditionally carries weight for regional bragging rights, this edition comes with added pressure as both teams struggle to find consistency in Major League Soccer this season.

DC United enter the match languishing in 12th place in the Eastern Conference, having managed only four draws from eight home fixtures. Their recent run of form has been far from convincing, with a goalless draw against Nashville SC marking their third consecutive MLS match without a goal. The Black and Red have failed to secure back-to-back wins all season, highlighting their ongoing battle with inconsistency.

A key blow to DC United’s attacking hopes is the absence of their top scorer, Christian Benteke, who is sidelined with an injury. With six goals and one assist to his name this season, Benteke’s presence has been crucial for DC’s forward play.

Without him, an already goal-shy side faces an even tougher challenge breaking down opposition defenses. The team has also struggled defensively, with the second-worst record in the league—partly due to a persistent and arguably flawed tactical choice of playing with just three defenders at the back.

Their opponents, the New York Red Bulls, are not faring much better. They were defeated 2-0 by city rivals NYCFC in their most recent outing, extending their goalless run to three straight MLS matches—their longest such streak since a five-game drought in 2023.