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New York City FC is in the midst of playing the Round One Best-of-3 series in the MLS Cup Playoffs. This is the first time the team is playing this format in the postseason, for they missed it last season when they failed to make the playoffs. Alas, while it is not the most exciting round one, the Pigeons still have to play and win twice to move on.
On Monday, NYCFC lost the first game against FC Cincinnati. They were away in Ohio but will be back home for this weekend’s matchup. The players know that a loss means they are done with the playoffs. As such, they must win the second fixture.
The Boys in Blue also have to find the back of the net. They have failed to do so over the last two matches after scoring 12 goals in the previous four. It was during those four that NYCFC beat Cincinnati 3-2 for the first time since 2021. The Queens side knows they can beat the current Ohio team, so hopefully that will act as an inspiration to win again.
One can never know how a playoff game will go. Here is a preview of the fixture between NYCFC and FC Cincinnati.
Date
NYCFC and FC Cincinnati will play one another on Saturday, November 2.
Time
The game is at 5:00 PM ET.
Location
The fixture is at Citi Field in Queens, NY.
How to watch
Fans can watch the fixture on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass.
Weather
It will be a beautiful evening for a game in New York City. At kickoff, it will be around 59 degrees and sunny. As the sun sets, the temperature will only go down a few degrees. There is no rain in the forecast as well.
Injury report
Malachi Jones (leg) remains on the injury report. In addition, Tayvon Gray (suspension) is out due to his red card from the previous match.
Players to watch
Everyone should pay attention to Matt Freese. NYCFC will need him to step up in case the backline makes any mistakes. If that happens, then the goalkeeper will be relied on to keep his team in the playoffs. Moreover, he was not even considered for Goalkeeper of the Year despite being one of the best goalkeepers in the league. He needs a performance to remind MLS of their mistake.
On Cincinnati, Luciano Acosta is still the player to watch. He got the assist with the team’s lone goal on Monday. He was also extremely threatening, as always. NYCFC must stop him, but it will be difficult.
Prediction
The Pigeons are finally back in one of their home stadiums after having to play a few games at Red Bull Arena. It would be shocking if many fans are not at the match in person. The recent home form has been great, so that is why the prediction is that NYCFC will win 2-1. It will not be the prettiest performance, but the Boys in Blue will force at least one more game in 2024.