FanSided MLS
·8 November 2024
In partnership with
Yahoo sportsFanSided MLS
·8 November 2024
Once again, New York City FC will be playing to stay alive in the MLS Cup Playoffs when the team plays the final Round One Best-of-3 series against FC Cincinnati. The series is tied at 1-1, with the Orange and Blue winning the first game and the Pigeons winning the second. The Boys in Blue performed much stronger in their home fixture, winning 3-1 and outplaying the visitors in the first half.
However, NYCFC has to return to TQL stadium. They have struggled in Ohio as of late. The road woes, as mentioned many times, have haunted the Pigeons throughout the last few years. Ideally, they will capture the great road games in Philadelphia and New Jersey from this season. They must score goals, and Matt Freese and the backline must be at the top of their game.
That is not to say Freese has not been performing well. He has been playing very well, even in the 1-0 loss in the first match. He had five saves and arguably kept the Pigeons in the fight. This time around, it would be nice for the goalkeeper to earn the clean sheet. But again, he needs the help from the backline. This is a win-or-go-home match, so mistakes cannot be made.
Although, the same goes for Cincinnati. They are playing to remain in the playoffs too. Therefore, the match will be challenging with both teams fighting to continue the season. That is why NYCFC has to play their best to at least have a chance to head to the next round. More importantly, if they do move on, then the Pigeons will play the New York Red Bulls for the first time in the playoffs. That alone is a huge incentive.
4:00 PM ET, with an expected kickoff at 4:10 PM ET
MLS Season Pass via Apple TV
Supporters can fly to Cincinnati
newyorkcityfc.com/radio or via the NYCFC app
If NYCFC fans cannot watch or listen to the game, then they can follow along via MLS Soccer’s timeline and NYCFC’s X account.
Nobody knows whether this will be the last game of the season. If NYCFC wins, then they will play at least one more match. Regardless, this might be the last time Maxi Moralez plays for the squad. There is a chance he will retire at the end of the season. Although, he is still playing at a high level. He could play another season, but hopefully, he will start on Saturday.
Live
Live
Live
Live