New York City FC vs New England Revolution Preview: Looking to rebound

On Saturday, New York City FC is set to face the New England Revolution in another tough matchup.  The Pigeons are looking to rebound after a terrible loss in Houston, for the team played one of their worst matches in a while. 

However, it needs to be said again and again; the road is not kind to NYCFC, and any game at the Revolution can be a rough 90 minutes.  It is hard to see them winning, but like any sporting event, anything is possible.  They can have a chance if they take the positive aspects from the D.C. United match, and include them in the tactics for the next fixture. 

Nonetheless, the home side is at the top of the Eastern Conference, and have looked strong to begin the season.  Despite some additions, the Bronx side is not near the competitive level they were the last two seasons.  They might look to rebound and grab at least a point, but even that will be a difficult venture.

As such, here is a preview of the next NYCFC match.

When is the match between New York City FC and New England Revolution?

The match will take place on Saturday, April 1, at 7:30 PM.

Where is the NYCFC game?

The game will take place in Foxborough, MA at Gillette Stadium.

Where can fans watch the NYCFC game?

Fans can catch NYCFC on Apple TV via the MLS Season Pass.  This fixture will be free.

What can New York City FC expect from the New England Revolution?

As mentioned, New York City FC can expect a challenging game against the Revolution.  The team is in first place in the Eastern Conference, and is 4-1-0, with the lone loss coming from the fixture against Los Angeles FC. 

Defensively, they have a solid backline that has caused frustration for multiple teams.  The goalkeeper, Đorđe Petrović, has three clean sheets thus far, and continues to shine after the departure of Matt Turner last summer.  The Pigeons might find it difficult to score, and the lack of a true striker is not helpful.

Meanwhile, Gustavo Bou missed the first two matches of the season, but started the last three.  The forward has two goals this season, with both coming in the previous two fixtures.  Often a threat when he plays against NYCFC, it would not be surprising for him to score.  The Pigeons have to limit his opportunities, but they have to make sure they do not focus entirely on Bou, for that may allow other players like Bobby Wood and Carles Gil to take their opportunities. 

Which NYCFC player should supporters watch?

NYCFC supporters should watch Luis Barraza during Saturday’s game.  There are still questions to whether he is the right fit for the starting goalkeeper position, for he has not been terrible, but he has not been great behind the sticks.  There are concerns with his passing out of the back, and also when he is under pressure. 

That being said, he has been average, but has room to grow.  If Barraza can step up on the road and even help the Pigeons grab a point, then it is likely he will continue to start. 

Some supporters wonder though when Nick Cushing will allow Matt Freese a chance between the sticks.  This will be something to keep an eye on, especially over the next few weeks. 

What is the prediction for New York City FC?

New York City FC will have Maxime Chanot and Mitja Ilenič back from international duty, so that already will help fortify the defense.  This will also allow James Sands to move back into the midfield, for he plays his best football there. 

But between offensive struggles and the road woes, and then with the Revolution’s stellar start to 2023, it is difficult to see NYCFC leave with a win.  Hence, the prediction for this fixture is that the Pigeons will lose 2-0.  

Ideally, the team will find a way to shock New England, and grab all three points.  But after their performances away from home so far in 2023, it would not be shocking if most fans expected another loss for New York City FC.