U.N.A.M. - Pumas vs DC United Prediction (30.07.2023)

While Liga MX and Major League Soccer are away, Leagues Cup will play. The very best from Mexico and the United States are battling it out in an electric tournament this summer as we attempt to determine who the best club in North America is. Today, we’ll be taking a look at a clash between UNAM Pumas and DC United.

UNAM Pumas were, as harsh as it is to say, very poor last season. They couldn’t seem to get out of their own way and it doesn’t feel like they’re well-placed to rectify that this time around either. Historically speaking, they are part of the Big Four and always will be, but they need to find some new solutions if they want to try and mix it up in the top end of the table.

UNAM knew the pressure was on for them to perform against Montreal, but in the end, they could only muster up a 2-2 draw. From there, they went to penalties, and the shootout didn’t fall their way in a 4-2 defeat.

Between gimmicks, big signings and many tactical changes, DC United have tried many new ways to get the franchise back to where it once was - and they’ve largely failed to do so. Another midtable season with a glimpse of hope for the playoffs is on the cards again, but for the boys from the capital, we’d imagine they’ll be getting a bit tired of the same old status quo, especially when they’ve shown signs of potential.

It took until the 70th minute, but DC’s clash with Montreal was finally decided by a late goal in the second half. Erik Hurtado scored it, giving United what many would deem to be an undeserved 1-0 win.

It doesn’t really feel like either of these two teams has an edge when it comes to quality, or confidence, for that matter. DC are better when it comes to pulling a surprise rabbit out of the hat but we just can’t see things playing out that way, which is why we’re going to back a draw.