Expect D.C. United to line up in their usual 4-2-3-1 — a shape built on defensive solidity and quick transitions. The double pivot will sit deep, screening the back four and forcing New England to play through congested central areas. The attacking midfielder will look to drift into the half-spaces, linking play and feeding the lone striker. It's not pretty, but it's effective — they'll cede possession and look to knife through on the counter.

New England, as expected, will roll out their 4-3-3, with a midfield three that can control the tempo when they're on it. But on the road, they often struggle to impose that control. Their full-backs push high, leaving space in behind — and D.C. United have the pace on the wings to exploit that. The Revs will dominate the ball, but that's fine for D.C. United. They're comfortable in a low block, absorbing pressure and hitting on the break. The key battle will be in midfield: D.C.'s double pivot vs. New England's trio. If the Revs can't break through the middle, they'll be forced wide, where D.C.'s full-backs are disciplined. Set pieces could be a factor too — D.C. United are dangerous from dead balls, and New England have been vulnerable to them recently.