DC United kicked off their 2026 MLS season with a hard-fought 1-0 win against the Philadelphia Union at Audi Field. A solitary goal in the second half was enough to separate the two Eastern Conference rivals in a tense and physical encounter. Both teams had chances in a match defined by strong defensive structures, but it was DC United who found the decisive moment, much to the delight of the home crowd. The Philadelphia Union, a perennial contender, will be disappointed to start with a road loss but showed enough to suggest they will be competitive again this season. The three points give DC United an ideal start to their campaign.