D.C. United interim head coach Kevin Flanagan remains optimistic ahead of their upcoming fixture against Austin FC.

Since their last win on June 1, D.C. have lost six of their last seven MLS matches (D1) and were knocked out of the U.S. Open Cup by Nashville SC in the quarter-finals.

Their most recent fixture saw them lose 2-1 to the Columbus Crew as Christian Benteke's first goal back from injury was overshadowed by a late red card for Aaron Herrera.

Despite their recent form, which sees them placed 14th in the Eastern Conference, Flanagan believes the extra time between games has helped the players train better.

"I think that is the key, having that time to get onto the pitch and dig into some details. In possession, out of possession, in transition," said Flanagan.

"The sessions this week have been positive. That's the main reason we are feeling good going into the weekend.

"[We are] breaking down patterns of play and digging into areas where we can create chances from. We are looking at areas we can improve, paying close attention to the opponent on the weekend to see if there are any areas where we can take advantage.

"The locker room is full of competitors; the belief is there. These things just need to turn into results in order for any movement into a positive direction related to the table.

"The main focus has been on top performance in all moments of the game. We believe if we can do that on Saturday [against Austin], we should achieve success."

Austin are currently eighth in the West after defeating LA Galaxy 2-1 on the road, thanks to a goal and an assist from Myrto Uzuni.

That result came on the back of two MLS games without a win (D1 L1) and without a goal.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

D.C. United – Christian Benteke

Benteke has been prolific for D.C. United this season. He is the club's top scorer with seven goals, two of which have been the critical first of the match.

His goal against Columbus last time out was his 16th headed goal in MLS, more than any other player since he joined the league in 2023.

Austin FC – Jon Gallagher

With Brandon Vazquez sidelined by injury, forward Jon Gallagher will need to step up for Austin.

Gallagher has scored three times in four career regular-season matches against D.C., his most against any opponent.

MATCH PREDICTION – DRAW

Austin FC have suffered only two defeats in their last 12 matches in all competitions, including a 2-1 win at the Galaxy in their last match. Austin have won consecutive away matches in all competitions just once in the last three years, doing so in March against Los Angeles FC and St. Louis City SC.

D.C. have lost seven of their last eight matches in all competitions (D1), including the last four in a row. D.C.'s lone result over that time was a 0-0 draw in their last home match against Atlanta United on July 5.

Austin won each of their first two matches against D.C., scoring three goals in both wins. Austin’s only previous visit to D.C. was a 3-0 victory in October 2023.

In their last six league matches, DC United have drawn one and lost five. Austin, meanwhile, have won three, drawn one and lost two in their last six.

OPTA WIN PROBABILITY

D.C. United – 32.4%

Draw – 25.5%

Austin FC – 42.1%