D.C. United’s Troy Lesesne Reflects on Massive Win, Set-Piece Strategy, and Squad Depth Ahead of Chicago Clash

By Denis Gomez

June 5, 2025

Following D.C. United’s statement victory over FC Cincinnati, head coach Troy Lesesne spoke candidly with the media about the significance of the result, the evolving role of set pieces, and the challenges the club faces heading into this weekend's match against the Chicago Fire.

Turning Point in the Season

Lesesne described the 2-1 win over table-topping Cincinnati as “probably our biggest result” during his time with the club. More than just a confidence boost, the coach sees it as a potential turning point for a team seeking consistency.

“We’ve created momentum at different points during my time,” Lesesne admitted. “But we haven’t sustained it. That’s something we’re all aware of going into this weekend.”

Despite external surprise at the result, Lesesne emphasized that the belief inside the locker room has never wavered. “You say the word ‘shocked’ — I don’t think internally anyone was,” he said. “We believe in ourselves to compete with anyone.”

Set Pieces and Staff Strategy

A key component of the Cincinnati victory came from set pieces, an area Lesesne credited assistant coach Zach Prince for mastering.

“Set pieces have become monumentally important at all levels of the game,” Lesesne said. “Zach’s been instrumental since our time together in New Mexico in organizing and orchestrating those moments. The creativity shown against Cincinnati was a direct product of our preparation.”

One goal resulted from an in-the-moment read by the players; another was a pre-planned sequence identified and drilled by the coaching staff — a testament to the balance of structure and freedom Lesesne encourages.

Players Stepping Up

Lesesne singled out several players for their recent performances, notably Gabriel Pirani and David Schneg. Pirani has shown greater personality on the pitch, while Schneg has been “fantastic” with ball recovery and improved final-third delivery.

But perhaps the most inspiring story is that of Connor Antley, who scored the match-winner against Cincinnati. Once labeled “undersized” by some observers, Antley has become a fan favorite — and a trusted figure in the locker room.

“You can measure height,” Lesesne said. “But you can’t measure willpower. Connor embodies the values we believe in as a club.”

Shorthanded but Determined

Heading into the clash with Chicago, D.C. United faces a daunting challenge: up to ten players could be unavailable due to injuries and international call-ups, including key starters like Christian Benteke, Lucas McNaughton, and João Peglow.

Despite the depleted roster, Lesesne remains resolute.

“We want all our guys fit and healthy, but we also believe deeply in the ones ready to go this weekend,” he stated.

Chicago Threats and the Path Forward

Lesesne identified Chicago’s playmakers — Hugo Cuypers, J. Bamba, and Brian Gutiérrez — as central threats, noting that neutralizing them will be key to securing a result. After strong defensive performances against New England and Cincinnati, the focus will be on synchronization and discipline.

“We’ve shown we can compete with top teams,” Lesesne said. “Now the challenge is to make those performances the norm, not the exception.”