FC Cincinnati and New York Red Bulls finish their series like a bookend of the season. One team plays while dreaming of winning it all, while the other wrestles with the disappointment of their season’s shortcomings.
NEW YORK RED BULLS
One year after making it to the MLS Cup, the New York Red Bulls find themselves falling short of the playoffs for the first time since 2008. They sought to recreate their success from last year by bringing in striker Eric Choupo Moting to lead the line. And while he has produced 16 goals and five assists, the team around him has diminished. Injuries have ravaged the squad all season, but leadership has also missed a chance to make a late season push.
Sitting just below the playoff line in the summer window, the front office chose to bring in no one to bolster the squad and instead relied on the academy to fill the gaps. And while they have seen significant contributions from these players, like 17-year-old striker Julian Hall, their development has not reached a point where they can push the team to the next level.
Red Bull’s Recent Form
FC CINCINNATI
The Orange and Blue come out following a disappointing draw against Orlando City. The last minute equalizer was, however, emblematic of that particular game as FCC had been giving up many great chances to Orlando. The xG of the game had Orlando leading 3.8 to 2.1, so the 1-1 tie was a lucky result.
But perhaps more disappointing than the dropped result on the night was the near ending of FC Cincinnati’s Supporters Shield chance. With two games left, Cincy sits four points behind the Philadelphia Union. To clinch the Shield, FCC must win their remaining games, and Philadelphia can only earn a single point in their final two.
KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH
For New York, their success will be driven by their two DPs, Striker Eric Choupo Moting and Midfielder Emil Forsberg. While both may have been cast offs of the European club structures, they have proven their mettle in MLS.They’ve often been left to do it all by themselves, scoring 27 of Red Bull’s 47 goals. There are still youngsters who have shown moments of breakthrough, but by and large the stars have carried the team forward.
FC Cincinnati and Red Bulls have played many contested matches over the years, but it is hard to tell how New York will perceive this match. There is no post season reward for the team anymore, which may lead to the players starting their vacations early.
But, they are also coming off a loss to crosstown rivals, NYCFC that saw players clash with fans after the game. Perhaps the Red Bulls feel like they have a point to prove, which could create motivation for the game.
Match Info
Where: Sports Illustrated Stadium, New Jersey
When: Saturday, October 4 at 7:30pm
Watch: MLS Apple TV+
Recommended for you
