Red Bulls' struggling defense clashes with woeful D.C. offense

Field Level Media|published: Tue 21st April, 19:32 2026

Apr 4, 2026; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; Red Bull New York forward Emil Forsberg (10) tries to gain control of the ball against FC Cincinnati during the second half at Sports Illustrated Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images

D.C. United and the New York Red Bulls are struggling at the opposite ends of the pitch.

Over their last four MLS matches, D.C. United have failed to score. Meanwhile, over the Red Bulls' last four league games, they have surrendered 14 goals.

When the teams meet Wednesday night in Harrison, N.J., they will be seeking answers for their recent woes.

The lack of scoring punch is nothing new for D.C. United (2-4-2, 8 points). Last year, the club scored 30 goals, the fewest in MLS. D.C. also failed to score in four straight league matches from May 10-24, 2025.

It's been a challenge for the Black and Red to remain positive. In addition to going 0-2-2 during their scoreless MLS run, they fell last week on penalty kicks to One Knoxville SC in a U.S. Open Cup match in which they put up three goals.

"I think we've shown we can create. I think it's just about being very precise in some moments on both sides of the ball," said D.C. goalkeeper Sean Johnson, who had four saves in a scoreless draw Saturday at the Philadelphia Union.

The offensive struggles of D.C. were evident as it took just six shots against Philadelphia, none of which were on frame. Coach Rene Weiler said he expects a similar challenge against New York (3-3-2, 11 points).

"You have to find ways to score goals," Weiler said. "First of all, you have to accept the fight and the physical game because most of the teams on our side of the league are very physical."

The Red Bulls look to rebound from a dispiriting 4-1 loss Saturday at CF Montreal in which their lone tally was an own goal.

Lowly CF Montreal has just two wins this season, both against the Red Bulls, who they have outscored 7-1.

Julian Hall (five goals, two assists) and Emil Forsberg (one goal, two assists) provide firepower for New York, which hopes to rediscover its defense against its longtime MLS rival.

"Games against D.C. United always carry extra weight," Red Bulls manager Michael Bradley said. "We're gonna step on the field at home on Wednesday night ready to give everything we have to respond in a really strong way."

--Field Level Media

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