Alonso Martínez and Hannes Wolf lead NYCFC to a home opener win over Orlando | OneFootball

Ten years ago, New York City FC played their first Major League Soccer game in club history.  The game ended in a 1-1 draw against Orlando City SC and was the beginning of the next decade full of highs and lows.  From tough losses to incredible wins, like the 2021 MLS Cup win, the team's short history has been a brilliant roller coaster ride and will continue to be as the years progress.

Now, on March 8, 2025, exactly ten years later, NYCFC celebrated their tenth anniversary at their home opener.  The Pigeons welcomed Orlando to Yankee Stadium for the celebratory match. It was fitting that the teams played one another on the anniversary.  Moreover, they were both the expansion sides during that season.

After last Saturday’s disappointing loss to Los Angeles FC, NYCFC wanted to turn things around.  Not only did they want to mark the home opener and anniversary celebrations with a win, but they wanted the first win of the young season.  It was expected to be another difficult game, though, for Orlando had already scored six times in two matches and had a win under their belt.

That did not matter, for NYCFC outscored the visitors 2-1 to get the win.  It was an entertaining game and a fun evening for the celebration.

NYCFC beats Orlando 2-1

Unfortunately, there were some problems before the opening whistle.  Fans were struggling to get inside due to issues with Ticketmaster and the app.  Numerous supporters could not get in, but the team was working to help those with issues.  It was questionable that NYCFC, especially on such a big day, did not request a delay in the start time, but there were still plenty in the stands at the start of the match.

Nevertheless, it was a good crowd for a cold and windy evening.  Both teams came ready to play and put on an entertaining show.  Notably, Jonathan Shore earned his first start for the team.  Midway through the first half, it was clear he would be fun to watch as he continues to develop.

The 17-year-old quickly impressed with his dribbling and awareness on the pitch.  Shore was not afraid to take risks and pickpocketed the ball a few times during the match.  He also got the ball into the box a few times while making himself available during attacking sequences.  Plus, he was solid defensively and made a few vital clearances.

Meanwhile, as entertaining as the first half was with some of the play by NYCFC, the real entertainment was the second half.

The Pigeons picked up their pace of play and came out of the locker room hungry for a goal.  The offensive work rate increased, and the home side was subsequently rewarded in the 59th minute.  Maxi Moralez attempted a shot that rolled to hit the post.  Orlando’s goalkeeper, Pedro Gallese, was on the ground, leaving room for the deflected ball.

So, who else shows up running at full speed to tap the ball into the back of the net?  Why, it was Alonso Martínez, who pounced at the opportunity.  The Costa Rican put NYCFC up by a goal, but that would not be the only one of the night.

Luis Muriel tied the game for Orlando ten minutes later in the 69th minute.  A lapse in the backline opened up the space for the forward, and he easily swept the ball past Matt Freese.

Thankfully, that did not last long, for the Pigeons struck again two minutes later.  Martínez tried to score a second, but his strike was saved.  However, Julián Fernández was able to receive the ball on the right side of the goal and quickly sent it into the air in front of Gallese.  Hannes Wolf was right there, and headed the ball into the goal with force.  This was the winger’s first goal since last June, and boy, he was overdue.

The goals warmed the fans up and ultimately led to the win.  That was not before there were some chills of fear, for a second yellow card sent Kevin O’Toole off in the 86th minute.  NYCFC still managed to hang on to get the first three points of the season.

NYCFC did their job and ultimately ended the anniversary in the perfect way possible.  Hopefully, they can do the same thing next weekend.