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Major League Soccer
team-logoDC United
Audi Field
team-logoPhiladelphia Union

How to watch today's DC United vs Philadelphia Union Major League Soccer game: Live stream, TV channel, and start time

For 2026, a standard Apple TV subscription now includes access to all MLS matches in many regions, removing the need for a separate "Season Pass" add-on. Check your local Apple TV app for specific regional details.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you are travelling abroad or just want to access your usual streaming services from a different part of the world, you may run into geo-restrictions. This is where a Virtual Private Network (VPN) comes in handy.

A VPN, such as ExpressVPN, allows you to establish a secure, encrypted connection online. By virtually changing your location to a country where the game is being broadcast, you can bypass blackout restrictions and watch your favourite team live. Click here for a step-by-step guide or, alternatively, check out GOAL's guide to the best VPNs for streaming sports.

This Eastern Conference clash marks a pivotal "new era" for D.C. United as they host their I-95 rivals in the 2026 season opener. The stakes couldn't be higher: the Philadelphia Union arrive as the reigning 2025 Supporters' Shield winners, having dominated this fixture recently with a staggering 13–0 aggregate score across their last three meetings. However, the Black-and-Red have undergone a complete identity shift under new head coach René Weiler, headlined by the record-breaking signing of Louis Munteanu and the acquisition of Tai Baribo—who, in a scripted twist of fate, makes his D.C. debut against the very Union side he led in scoring last season. While Philadelphia looks to maintain their stranglehold on the rivalry following a midweek 5–0 Champions Cup rout, D.C. United is desperate to prove that their off-season overhaul has finally closed the gap.

DC United vs Philadelphia Union kick-off time

Today's game between DC United and Philadelphia Union will kick-off at 22 Feb 2026, 00:30.

Team news & squads

DC United vs Philadelphia Union Probable lineups

Probable lineup

Substitutes

Manager

  • R. Weiler

Probable lineup

Substitutes

Manager

  • B. Carnell

Injuries and Suspended players

Injuries and Suspensions

  • No sidelined players

Injuries and Suspensions

  • No sidelined players

D.C. United enters this 2026 season opener practically unrecognizable, fueled by an aggressive offseason overhaul under new manager René Weiler. The headline story is undoubtedly Tai Baribo, who looks to haunt his former club immediately after his high-profile $4.6 million move from Philadelphia. He’ll likely lead the line alongside club-record signing Louis Munteanu, creating a strike partnership that D.C. fans hope will finally erase the memory of last year’s offensive struggles. However, the Black-and-Red aren't without their hurdles; they’ll have to navigate the opener without the anchor of their defense, Lucas Bartlett, who remains sidelined with a knee injury, while young talent Matai Akinmboni serves a holdover suspension from the 2025 campaign.

The Philadelphia Union arrive at Audi Field with the confidence of reigning Supporters' Shield winners, though they are already juggling the physical demands of a deep CONCACAF Champions Cup run. While the squad is riding high after a midweek 5–0 thrashing in continental play, manager Bradley Carnell has some tactical puzzles to solve due to the long-term absence of Quinn Sullivan. On the bright side, the Union’s "youth-first" philosophy is in full bloom, with 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan and Nathan Harriel expected to take on even larger roles this season. With Andre Blake rested and ready to resume his post between the pipes, Philadelphia looks to prove that their chemistry and established system can overcome D.C.’s expensive new roster.

Form

Head-to-Head Record

Standings

Step-by-step VPN guide to watch DC United vs Philadelphia Union today

NordVPN streaming online from abroadNordVPN

  1. Download & Install: Sign up to ExpressVPN or another reputable VPN service (check out GOAL's guide here) and download the app on your device.
  2. Connect to a Server: Open the app and select a server location where the match is being shown (e.g. if you are in the UK but want to watch a US stream, connect to a US server).
  3. Clear Cache: Sometimes your browser holds onto your old location. Clear your cookies or refresh your browser to ensure the change takes effect.
  4. Start Streaming: Go to your broadcaster's website and app and enjoy the game.

How to watch on the Big Screen

Watching on your phone or laptop is fine, but live sports belongs on the big screen. Here is how to get the VPN working on your TV:

  • Smart TVs & Fire Stick: Most Android-based TVs and devices like the Amazon Fire TV Stick or Google Chromecast with Google TV have native VPN apps. Simply search for your VPN provider in the app store on your TV, log in, and connect just like you would on your phone.
  • Apple TV, Roku & Consoles: These devices often don't support direct VPN apps. The easiest workaround is to use Smart DNS (usually found in your VPN account settings) or Mirror/Cast the stream from your VPN-connected phone or laptop to your TV.

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