NYCFC provides a positive and negative outlook after the CVI draw with LAFC

On Sunday afternoon, New York City FC played their first match of the Coachella Valley Invitational as the team continued to prepare for the 2026 campaign. The Pigeons played against Los Angeles FC, in which the two teams ended the game in a 1-1 draw. Nicolás Fernández Mercau scored the lone goal for the Boys in Blue in the 50th minute, continuing his solid preseason and picking up where he left off in 2025.

NYCFC was close to ending the game with a win. However, a goal from LAFC star, Denis Bouanga, led to the draw in the 88th minute.

NYCFC's draw leads to mixed emotions

As mentioned, it was thought that the Pigeons' biggest challenge at the CVI would be LAFC. But in the first half, they played a Starting XI that was mostly full of younger players and those who do not normally start. NYCFC, on the other hand, had mostly starters begin the match.

That side kept the Bronx team out of the goal in the first half. That is not something fans want to see, especially since this was their third preseason fixture. Then, they played better on the pitch when LAFC's starting lineup was playing, but as more regulars came on as substitutes, the California team dominated more of the play.

At the same time, those regulars provided fresh legs, which easily aided in changing the direction of the tides. So, in some odd way, it is good that NYCFC kept a clean sheet for almost the entire fixture. The goal given up can be a teaching moment, and thankfully, it happened before the regular season. Moreover, LAFC might be more prepared since they will play in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

Another positive was that Fernández Mercau did alright in the false nine position. Yes, the lack of a striker like Alonso Martínez was evident, but the Argentine scored after all. A giveaway by LAFC led to the attacking opportunity, and Fernández Mercau's strike into the bottom left corner of the goal was like a striker.

Meanwhile, Keaton Parks is continuing to earn minutes, and he should be ready to go when the season begins. The only question is whether the midfielder can immediately impact the team after his injury setbacks last year.

In the end, it was not a terrible game for the Boys in Blue. NYCFC is still working toward getting ready for the upcoming campaign. Also, the defense is now adjusting to life after Justin Haak. As such, there might be some mistakes and late goals given up early on. Yes, there were some negatives and positives to take away from the performance, but one cannot complain. It is the preseason after all.