Weiler’s Spark: D.C. United Reclaims Winning Form Against Orlando City SC

Rene Weiler's arrival at D.C. United has ignited a spark, breaking a frustrating winless streak that stretched back to late May. The team's recent victory against New York City FC in their last MLS encounter marks a turning point under Weiler's leadership, instilling a renewed sense of hope and determination within the squad.

Taking over from Troy Lesesne, Weiler has steered D.C. United through three matches, securing two draws against CF Montreal and Inter Miami, culminating in the triumphant win over NYCFC. This transformation is significant, especially considering the team had only managed a single point from the previous 27 available before Weiler's appointment.

Despite remaining at the bottom of the Eastern Conference and out of playoff contention, D.C. United has five regular-season matches remaining, offering opportunities to build on their newfound momentum. The upcoming clash with Orlando City SC presents another challenge and a chance to showcase their improved performance.

"We are all happy that we have won, finally," Weiler expressed. "It was a tough time for everybody. Frustrating after a long time without one single win." His relief and satisfaction were palpable, emphasizing the collective effort required to overcome the prolonged drought. He added, "I am happy for the players first, and then for the club and the fans that we have that feeling back. They played very solid, very compact. Everybody helped each other."

Weiler acknowledged the difficulty of the match, recognizing NYCFC's dominance and recent form. "It was difficult. They dominated. They were in a good flow. They won four of the last five games. But it was a very good performance from the team," he concluded, highlighting the resilience and tactical discipline displayed by his players.

GAME OVER pic.twitter.com/9ZdHS5cT4k

— D.C. United (@dcunited) August 31, 2025

Orlando City SC, on the other hand, enters the match after a period of rest following a heavy 5-1 defeat to Nashville SC on August 23. In that match, Martin Ojeda scored as a substitute before being sent off, ending a four-match winning streak in the MLS and causing them to lose ground in the race for the top four.

Currently positioned fifth in the Eastern Conference, three points behind Nashville and Charlotte FC, Orlando City head coach Pareja believes the extended break will benefit his team as they push towards the postseason. "We took advantage of the fact that we had this break, and we tried to generate space for the players," Pareja explained. "Some of them needed to rest and bring that energy back."

He further elaborated on the team's preparation, stating, "But some of them needed to work and participate and compete in the drills to keep them active. It has been a little bit of a mix. We’re good, though. We are mentally prepared to continue our next journey towards the next objective." Pareja emphasized the clear goals set for the remainder of the season: "There are goals that are evident. The first is to qualify the team for the playoffs. But we want to qualify in the first four. It would be great for us to have that advantage in the playoffs."

Pareja remains ambitious, adding, "Having six games and that many points still, we are aiming higher to try to do the best we can and compete for the highest position possible." His confidence underscores Orlando City's determination to secure a favorable playoff spot.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

D.C. United – Gabriel Pirani

Gabriel Pirani's two goals in D.C. United’s victory over New York City marked his first brace of the season, and only the second by a D.C. player in 2025. The previous brace came from Peglow against the New York Red Bulls in April.

Orlando City – Martin Ojeda

Martin Ojeda scored but was sent off in Orlando's last regular-season match. The Lions will rely on their leading scorer who has 14 league goals in 27 appearances this season.

Ojeda has a strong record against D.C. United, with five goal involvements (two goals and three assists) in previous encounters.

MATCH PREDICTION: ORLANDO CITY WIN

Orlando City has won three consecutive matches against D.C. United, including a 4-1 victory on March 22. While simulations favor Orlando, they have lost their last three matches after an eight-match unbeaten streak.

D.C. United ended an 11-match winless run with their recent victory over New York. They aim to win consecutive matches for the first time since October 2024.

OPTA WIN PROBABILITY

D.C. United – 22.7%

Draw – 22.3%

Orlando City – 55%