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New York City FC is in the middle of a tough stretch. Since their first two wins, the team is 2-3-1. Arguably, the wins are thanks to a little bit of luck, especially in the win over the Philadelphia Union. But in five of the six matches, the Boys in Blue have scored once or were held scoreless.
Now, they must face one of the best teams in Major League Soccer: FC Cincinnati. The Orange and Blue were in first place in the Eastern Conference before the weekend and last lost on March 15. While the Pigeons might have beaten them in the MLS Cup Playoffs last season, the team’s current rough patch makes them vulnerable, even at home.
NYCFC should feel like they know Cincinnati very well. The two sides faced one another six times last year. Despite dominating the series in the early years, the Queens team struggled to beat the Ohio side for about two and a half years. Finally, they ended the seven-match unbeaten run during the last regular season game, and ultimately found a way to move on in the playoffs.
The Pigeons will want to celebrate Star Wars Day with a win, but it will be tough to beat this strong foe. Here is a preview of the game between NYCFC and FC Cincinnati.
NYCFC vs FC Cincinnati preview
Date
NYCFC and FC Cincinnati will play on Sunday, May 4.
Time
The match will start at 3:00 PM ET.
Location
The fixture will take place at Citi Field in Flushing, NY in the borough of Queens.
How to watch
Fans can watch the game on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass.
Weather
Sunday will be dull. It will be 65 degrees and cloudy, but it might be raining with a 46% chance. As the fixture progresses, the chance of rain will increase, with a 75% chance by the end of the 90 minutes. Rain jackets will likely be a good choice for those going to Citi Field.
Injury report
Jacob Arroyave (knee), Mitja Ilenič (leg), Malachi Jones (leg), and Kevin O’Toole (leg) are unavailable for the Star Wars Day game.
Players to watch
Hannes Wolf has had a couple of good games this season, but has mostly underperformed. Therefore, he is the player to watch to see whether he will step up against a top MLS team. A top-performing Wolf makes a huge difference in the attack and the team needs more from their wingers. He should be adding more assists and scoring more.
In addition, Evander is the player to watch on Cincinnati. The midfielder, who shone with the Portland Timbers, has six goals and one assist and continues to be superb on the ball. The Orange and Blue have many talented players, but he will be the most threatening.
Prediction
As mentioned, NYCFC is in the middle of a rough patch. That is why it is predicted the Boys in Blue will lose, 2-0. Cincinnati has been too good and can win away from home. A miracle might be needed if any points are to be awarded to the home team.