D.C. United beats Club America in a friendly Eagles Derby

D.C. United and Club América have a very limited history, having played only a few times, including a 2007 match where D.C. United won 1-0. The Black-and-Red earned a second consecutive win against Liga MX powerhouse America, a 3–1 victory in an international friendly, highlighted by goals from Joao Peglow, Caden Clark, and Gabriel Pirani. The friendly had a competitive intensity worthy of a Concacaf Champions Cup.

Lineups 

Rene Weiler rotated his squad, starting Jordan Farr in goal with a backline of Conner Antley, Lukas MacNaughton, Lucas Bartlett, and Derek Dodson. The midfield featured Boris Enow, Brandon Servania, Joao Peglow, and Jared Stroud, while Dominique Badji and Caden Clark led the attack. Club América fielded a strong lineup, including former Newcastle United winger Allan Saint-Maximin and ex-Barcelona midfielder Jonathan Dos Santos.

Match Recap

The match came alive in the second half. In the 49th minute, Joao Peglow opened the scoring for United, capitalizing on a poor clearance by the América defense. Just minutes later, a defensive lapse saw Lukas MacNaughton turn the ball into his own net, leveling the score at 1–1.

D.C. quickly responded in the 55th minute, as Caden Clark marked his debut with a composed finish, restoring the lead for the Black-and-Red. Post-match in the mixed zone, he stated: "I'm very happy to finally make my debut and help my team win".

Late in the game, Benteke nearly extended the advantage, forcing a sharp save from Rodolfo Cota in the 88th minute.

The insurance goal came deep into stoppage time (90+3’), when Gabriel Pirani rifled a shot into the top-right corner after a clever assist from Benteke, sealing a 3–1 win.

Atmosphere 

The crowd remained lively throughout, with Mexican supporters making their presence known by chanting their famous goal-kick cheer. Despite multiple warnings to stop the game due to the discriminatory chant, play continued without major disruption. Club América traveled with its full squad, giving the friendly a competitive edge.

Looking Ahead 

With the victory, D.C. United remains undefeated in the Rene Weiler era. Next, they turn their attention back to MLS play, facing Orlando City this upcoming Saturday, September 13th, who are pushing to secure maximum points and improve their playoff positioning for home-field advantage.

Final Score: 

D.C. United 3 – 1 Club América Goals: Peglow (49’), MacNaughton (OG, 54’), Clark (55’), Pirani (90+3’)