D.C. United produced a determined second-half comeback to earn a deserved 2-2 draw against Nashville SC at Audi Field on Saturday night, recovering from a two-goal halftime deficit in a compelling Major League Soccer fixture.
Nashville arrived in Washington in strong form and took command before the interval. Sam Surridge opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 32nd minute, calmly converting to give the visitors the advantage. Shakur Mohammed then doubled Nashville’s lead in the 40th minute, leaving D.C. United with a significant task after a difficult opening half.
The hosts found a different rhythm after the break. Despite having only 39 percent of possession, D.C. United were more forceful and direct in the decisive areas, finishing with 17 shots, seven on target and eight corners. Their pressure finally told in the 56th minute, when Silvan Hefti pulled one back to bring Audi Field to life.
D.C. United continued to push for an equalizer, and Tai Baribo delivered it in the 77th minute. His finish completed the turnaround from 2-0 down and ensured the home side claimed a valuable point from a match that had appeared to be slipping away before halftime.
Nashville controlled 61 percent of possession and had taken a clinical two-goal lead, but could not protect it. D.C. United’s second-half urgency, territorial pressure and superior shot volume gave the hosts a legitimate share of the spoils, while Nashville will be left to reflect on a missed opportunity after their commanding first-half display.
Goals: Sam Surridge (32′, penalty), Shakur Mohammed (40′); Silvan Hefti (56′), Tai Baribo (77′).
