Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 16, 2024 10:30 am GMT
As Nashville SC steps onto the pitch for their last home game of the 2024 regular season, the stakes have never been higher. They’ll face D.C. United on October 2 at GEODIS Park, where the Boys in Gold are battling for their playoff chances.
The Final Showdown at GEODIS Park
This match is crucial for Nashville SC. With a record of 8 wins, 9 draws, and 14 losses, they sit in 26th place in the league. Currently, they have 33 points and need to secure victories in the remaining matches against NYCFC and the Chicago Fire to boost their playoff hopes. The match against D.C. United marks their last opportunity to impress home fans until the next season.
<h3.Playoff Scenario
Nashville’s playoff journey hangs by a thread. They will be eliminated from the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs if they fail to secure a victory in this game. Fans are eager to see if the Boys in Gold can turn their fate around in front of their home crowd.
<h2.Key Players and Milestones
Alex Muyl is celebrating a milestone. With his start against New England, he has reached 100 regular-season starts for Nashville SC. He is now the fifth player in team history to achieve this, following notable players like Joe Willis and Hany Mukhtar.
- Joe Willis: 148 starts
- Hany Mukhtar: 131 starts
- Dan Lovitz: 131 starts
- Walker Zimmerman: 113 starts
Additionally, fans are excited about the return of Randall Leal. After being sidelined since April 20, he made his comeback against Inter Miami, bringing hope to the squad.
<h2.D.C. United’s Challenge
D.C. United arrives with a record of 8 wins, 10 draws, and 13 losses, which gives them 34 points and positions them 23rd in the league. While they still aim to improve their standing, the match against Nashville is vital for both teams.
<h3.Standout Players
D.C. United has a great offensive weapon in Christian Benteke, who leads the league in scoring with 21 goals this season. He’s in a tight race for the Golden Boot with Denis Bouanga, who trails by three goals. The match will be a test for Nashville’s defense to keep Benteke at bay.
<h2.Current Team Status
Both teams will have missing players due to injuries. Nashville SC’s injury list includes:
- Tyler Boyd (knee)
- Lukas MacNaughton (ankle)
Meanwhile, D.C. United will be without:
- Matai Akinmboni (ankle)
- Conner Antley (knee)
- Jackson Hopkins (ankle)
- David Schnegg (leg)
<h2.Statistics to Watch
This season, Nashville SC has allowed 47 goals, averaging 1.52 goals against per 90 minutes. They have 8 clean sheets, translating to a 25.8% clean sheet percentage. Their performance shows an expected goals (xG) of 37.6, with a negative goal differential of -16.
In contrast, D.C. United has given up 46 goals, achieving an xG of 48.4. Both teams have struggled defensively this year, which sets the stage for a potentially high-scoring affair.
<h2.Match Details
The match will take place at 7:30 p.m. CT at GEODIS Park in Nashville, TN. Fans can catch the action on Apple TV through the MLS Season Pass or listen via 104.5 The Zone.
For those looking to join the excitement, tickets are available, and fans can explore the Matchday Guide for essential information about transportation and policies.
<h2.Conclusion
Nashville SC is getting ready for their last home game of the season, and it’s going to be super exciting! The players are really motivated, and with all the cheering fans behind them, they’re determined to win against the tough team, D.C. United. It’s a big game, and if they win, they can still make it to the playoffs. Everyone knows the energy in GEODIS Park will be amazing!
