On a tense Saturday night in Washington, Tai Baribo scored against his former club, helping D.C. United secure a win over the Philadelphia Union in the 2025 MLS season opener. Baribo’s goal, assisted by João Peglow, proved crucial after Philadelphia’s Ezekiel Alladoh received a straight red card, leaving the Union a player short for the remainder of the match.
Key Moments and Player Debuts Shape the Match
Baribo opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a precise first-touch finish off a through ball from Peglow, beating Philadelphia goalkeeper Andre Blake. Earlier in the game, Baribo had a goal disallowed due to offside. The Union’s Alladoh, a 20-year-old making his MLS debut, was sent off in the 59th minute, forcing Philadelphia to play with ten men.
Louis Munteanu, the 23-year-old Romanian international signed by D.C. United for a record $7 million-plus transfer fee, made his MLS debut after substituting in for Gabriel Pirani in the 70th minute. Veteran goalkeeper Sean Johnson also debuted for United, contributing three saves; Johnson enters the season with 431 MLS starts across stints with Chicago, New York City FC, and Toronto.
Philadelphia’s Past Dominance Contrasts With This Season’s Opener
Philadelphia Union holds a solid historical record against D.C. United, standing at 28 wins, 10 losses, and 7 draws, including an 8-7-6 record on the road. The Union swept United in the 2024 regular season with a 3-0 home victory in April and a resounding 6-0 win away in September. This season’s opener, however, saw D.C. United turn the tables with Baribo’s impactful performance.
Implications for D.C. United and the Season Ahead
This victory, powered by Baribo’s goal against his former team and bolstered by key debuts and disciplined defense, offers D.C. United a hopeful start to their 2025 campaign. The result highlights the shifting dynamics between these rival clubs and sets an anxious yet optimistic tone for United as they aim to build momentum going forward.
“Baribo, who led the Union with 16 last season was acquired via trade for cash in the offseason.” – Source
“On the counter-attack, Baribo beat goalkeeper Andre Blake with a first-touch shot off a through ball played by João Peglow to make it 1-0.” – Source
“Forward Louis Munteanu made his MLS debut for D.C. United when he subbed on for Gabriel Pirani in the 70th minute.” – Source
“Sean Johnson had three saves in his debut for D.C. United.” – Source
