The 2026 season of DC United is about to start with a match against Philadelphia Union, and the team has made significant changes under the new coach René Weiler, including the signing of Louis Munteanu and the acquisition of Tai Baribo, who will play his first game with DC United against his old team. Philadelphia Union, the current Supporters' Shield champions, will try to keep their dominance in the rivalry, having won the last three games with a total score of 13-0. The game will start on February 22, 2026, at 00:30. DC United will not have Lucas Bartlett, who is injured, and Matai Akinmboni, who is suspended, while Philadelphia Union will not have Quinn Sullivan due to a long-term injury. The team's philosophy of giving young players a chance will be evident, with 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan and Nathan Harriel expected to play important roles. With Andre Blake ready to play in goal, Philadelphia will try to show that their team chemistry and system can beat DC United's new and expensive players. The stakes are high for DC United, who want to show that their changes have finally made them competitive with their rivals. The team will try to take advantage of their new players and make a statement in the first game of the season. The game can be watched on Apple TV, and fans who are traveling can use a VPN to watch it live.