NYCFC takes the big 2-0 win against D.C. United

New York City FC returned to Citi Field, across the street from where their future home will be in 2027. They welcomed a visit from another division rival, D.C. United, who have been mediocre as of late while sitting 10th in the Eastern Conference.  

A win meant the Boys in Blue would leapfrog their opponent and return to mid-table in what feels like forever. The special celebration following the City Council's approval of the new stadium made the match even more special. This also followed a brilliant 2-0 performance against the New England Revolution. 

As they entered their third match of a five-game homestand, NYCFC wanted back-to-back victories for the first time this season. There was plenty of positivity after Matt Freese was back in the MLS Team of the Week, with Keaton Parks featuring on the bench after holding New England to no goals. 

It was also a special game for Santiago Rodríguez, for he played his 100th match with the team. After a challenging fixture, NYCFC gave their all, winning 2-0.

NYCFC had a huge win over D.C. United 

There were no changes to the Starting XI for Nick Cushing’s side as Agustín Ojeda continues to start. Rodríguez played as the number ten while Wolf played as the right-winger for most of the match. Mounsef Bakrar still started as the center-forward, despite his early season struggles. The backline remained the same as well.

Meanwhile, Rodríguez played his 100th match for NYCFC in style as he knocked in the first goal with an assist from Wolf. The Pigeons dominated possession while mastering the passing channels to keep D.C. United on their toes the entire first half. 

The second half began the same way, though D.C. started to press the defense with some sloppy passing coming from the midfield. Matt Freese remained a brick wall with one save on the day with smart goalkeeping. 

Bakrar had five good chances, but could not find the target in what was just pure bad luck. His best chance was in the 75th minute, with a wide-open opportunity that just went wide. He recorded five shots (one on target) in another scoreless match for the striker. Bakrar was subbed off for Jovan Mijatović, who was seen crying on the bench following his failed attempts. 

The defense did an extraordinary job the entire match, helping Freese out while making several important clearances to keep their second clean sheet in a row.

NYCFC was not done with a late counterattack that led to a goal by Julián Fernández, his second of the season, assisted by Rodríguez. Citi Field immediately erupted in joy for their second straight win in a row in what is turning out to be a successful homestand.

The NYCFC players were seen with joy on their faces after another great game. They will return to the Bronx next week to keep the streak going with a showdown with Charlotte FC, who took the win during the first MLS match of the season. NYCFC will be looking for revenge.