D.C. United is tentatively scheduled to open the 2019 season with a heavyweight clash at Audi Field against MLS Cup champion Atlanta United on March 2 or 3, the Insider has learned.
The league is aiming to finalize and announce the home openers for all 24 teams this week and unveil the entire schedule in January. ESPN or Fox Sports would seem certain to carry the high-profile match.
MLS did not respond to a message seeking comment. D.C. and Atlanta spokesmen said their respective organizations did not want to comment.
D.C. has not faced the reigning champion in the season opener since 2004 (San Jose).