Playoff hopefuls Toronto, D.C. United out to earn crucial 3 points

Field Level Media|published: Fri 24th July, 18:47 2026

Jul 22, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; D.C. United offense Tai Baribo (9) celebrates his goal against the Houston Dynamo FC in the second half at Shell Energy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

With an MLS-high seven draws apiece, D.C. United and Toronto FC are fit to be tied entering their match Saturday in Washington.

While D.C. (4-5-7, 19 points) has played to standoffs in its last three matches, Toronto (3-6-7, 16 points) has done the same in its last two -- both scoreless draws on the road after MLS resumed play following the World Cup pause.

It's been an inconclusive year for both teams as they reside near the postseason cut line, with D.C. United clinging to the last rung in the Eastern Conference and Toronto in close pursuit.

Both played on the road against quality teams Wednesday. While Toronto stifled the New England Revolution in a 0-0 draw, D.C. got a late header from Tai Baribo to escape with a 1-1 deadlock against the Houston Dynamo.

Coming to the rescue for D.C. United was newly acquired Nathan Ordaz, who headed a pass across the box to Baribo as he broke past a defender to score his team-high ninth goal in the 78th minute.

D.C. United paid $2.375 million to pick up Ordaz from Los Angeles FC. The 22-year-old also plays for the El Salvador national team.

Also playing his first game Wednesday for D.C. was central midfielder Andre Dozzell, formerly of Portsmouth FC of the EFL Championship.

Given the heat and humidity at Houston on Wednesday and Saturday's game looming, D.C. coach Rene Weiler substituted liberally in the second half.

"I had to change to give them the rest during the game, and at the same time to get out a good result," Weiler said.

Toronto also added two players during the World Cup break, including midfielder Nelson Palacio from Real Salt Lake, but the Reds have continued their slide, extending their winless streak to 10 matches (0-4-6). They haven't won since April 4 vs. Colorado.

"Going to D.C. Saturday, it's pretty much a must-win," said Toronto keeper Luka Gavran, who had six saves in recording two straight clean sheets.

The top threats for Toronto are Daniel Salloi (four goals, five assists), Josh Sargent (three goals, one assist) and Emilio Aristizabal (three goals).

Toronto is trying to snap its five-year streak without a playoff appearance. D.C. United has the longest MLS postseason drought at six seasons.

--Field Level Media