NYCFC vs Red Bulls preview: New York must remain blue (and it always is)

Every year, New York City FC fans circle two Major League Soccer games on the calendar: both matches against Red Bull New York, aka the New York Red Bulls. It is odd that they are trying to make the new name happen, despite the fact that so many refer to the club by the other name. Anyway, getting back to the games, the Hudson River Derby is always an exciting, insane, gritty, and dramatic game, regardless of where the teams play.

This time, NYCFC is hosting the match, and they are desperate for all three points. The opposite MLS fixture ended in a draw, and while the Boys in Blue won the U.S. Open Cup game, the Hudson River Derby trophy is on the line. A win or draw will secure it, but of course, three points are needed. Hence, New York must remain blue.

Yet, New York, especially New York City and the surrounding counties, will always be blue, no matter what the result is. After all, RBNY plays in New Jersey, which is something the red team likes to forget. But the Pigeons know who they are, and hopefully the club's identity will be seen in full force on the pitch.

Fans should expect craziness, as that is the story for most of the Hudson River Derby meetings. Here is a preview of the game between NYCFC and the Red Bulls.

NYCFC vs Red Bulls preview

Date

NYCFC and RBNY will face off on Friday, September 18.

Time

The game will start at around 7:30 PM ET.

Location

The derby will take place at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, NY.

How to watch

As always, supporters can watch the game on Apple TV.

Weather

Fall is approaching, but it will still be a decently warm evening in the Bronx. It will be around 77 degrees and partly cloudy. There is no chance of rain, but there will be a breeze with the wind at around 10 mph. Fans should try to enjoy the last little bit of summer before it cools down.

Injury report

Once again, the injury report is the same. Drew Baiera (leg), Arnau Farnós (leg), Talles Magno (leg), Maxi Moralez (leg), Keaton Parks (leg), and Kai Trewin (leg) are out.

Players to watch

Aiden O’Neill is the player that NYCFC fans should watch. He is returning to full fitness, and when he has played so far, he has been at the level fans are used to. Having the Australian back will surely make a difference, and that should be the case on Friday.

Fans should also watch RBNY’s Julian Hall. The young forward is having a superb season. He has scored nine goals, and it is only a matter of time before he heads overseas. But his youth and confidence could easily lead him to scoring in the Bronx.

Prediction

After the win against Real Salt Lake, and the fact that the blue team has a slight edge this season, it is predicted that NYCFC will win 3-1. This will be a chippy battle, but some of the veterans will lead the team to the Hudson River Derby trophy.

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