The primary problem with friendlies between in-season MLS teams and preseason European clubs is the difference in priority.
Consider Wednesday’s meeting between D.C. United and Olympique Marseille at Audi Field, a game that turned into an 8-1 laugher for the French side.
United Coach Ben Olsen is concerned about the Eastern Conference race and, specifically, Saturday’s trip to Chicago, not an inconsequential result against a prominent foe.
Accordingly, his 18-man roster included three regulars, a 16-year-old prospect, an attacker signed earlier in the day and eight players from second-tier Loudoun United. The outcome was hideous as Marseille scored seven times in the second half.