Rene Weiler has successfully changed D.C. United’s defense from weak to strong, making it one of the key stories early in the MLS season.
D.C. United, now a tougher team, will face FC Dallas on Saturday in Washington.
Last season, they allowed the most goals (66) in the Eastern Conference, but this year D.C. (2-2-1, 7 points) has only conceded four goals.
Weiler became the manager in August and came with a defensive focus. After a season of implementing his strategies, his players have adapted well.
A significant offseason addition was goalkeeper Sean Johnson, who has made 16 saves.
“The commitment and mentality of the players is what makes a strong defense,” Johnson stated.
Weiler now aims to boost the offense. D.C. has scored only four goals this season, with three coming from Tai Baribo.
“It’s easier to solidify the defense than to create effective attacking plays,” Weiler noted. “We need more players who can score. This is the most complex area.”
FC Dallas (2-1-2, 8 points) is known for its strong offense, led by Petar Musa, who has six goals, half of which were scored during a 3-3 match with San Diego FC.
In their last game before the international break, Dallas won the Texas Derby against Houston Dynamo 4-3, with Logan Farrington scoring twice early in the match and Musa netting the winning goal in the 86th minute.
“They are a well-organized team that is tough to play against,” said Dallas coach Eric Quill about D.C. United. “We must be smart in how we break them down and avoid giving them counterattack opportunities.”
This will be D.C. United’s first match at Audi Field since starting the season with a 1-0 victory at home against the Philadelphia Union.
“I believe we will have chances to score,” Weiler added. “They play very directly and in the opponent’s half, which I prefer because it keeps us away from danger in front of our own goal.”
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