FC Cincinnati vs DC United: Hefti Out, Baribo a Doubt for DC
FC Cincinnati host DC United in MLS Matchday 23 on Saturday evening, looking to capitalise on a visiting side depleted by suspension and injury. While the home side have reported no fresh fitness concerns, DC United will be without suspended right-back Silvan Hefti and could be missing top scorer Tai Baribo.
Team News and Injury Latest
FC Cincinnati have a clean bill of health according to the league’s player status report. The Orange and Blue can choose from a full-strength squad as they push for a playoff spot.
For DC United, the picture is far more complicated. Right-back Silvan Hefti is suspended after accumulating yellow cards, while goalkeeper Jordan Farr (shoulder) and forward Gabe Segal (lower leg) are definitely out. Striker Tai Baribo, who leads the team with 12 goals, is douptful with a knee issue, and defender Kye Rowles is also a doupt due to a thigh problem. Head coach Rene Weiler admitted after the draw with LAFC that his squad is stretched: “We don’t have a massive squad … it’s a pity that we didn’t win this game.”
DC United Form Guide
The Black and Red’s recent form has been inconsistent. Their last five results have produced just one win — a 2-1 victory over Toronto FC — alongside draws with Nashville (2-2) and Montral (1-1), and defeats to New England (0-3) and Charlotte (1-3). With 28 goals scored and 36 conceded, Weiler’s side have struggled for balance, and the potential absence of Baribo would rob them of their most reliable finisher.
FC Cincinnati’s Attacking Options
Cincinnat’s attack has been carried by Thomas Barlow’s six goals, with midfielders Pavel Bucha and Kenji Mboma Dem chipping in five each. Their recent form — two wins, two draws and one loss in their last five — suggests they are capable of punishing a reshuffled DC defence. The absence of Hefti could open space down the visitors’ right side that Cincy will look to exploit.