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New York City FC should not and cannot be happy after they gave up the 2-0 lead last week to draw Chicago Fire FC 2-2. This came after an incredible performance from Alonso Martínez, who scored the brace in the first half. Of course, without the handball from Tayvon Gray, the Pigeons likely would have escaped with the 2-1 win. The result was not ideal in any way, especially since eight games remain in the season.
The Bronx team would love to rebound after the draw which felt like a loss. However, they would have to find a way to beat the Columbus Crew, who NYCFC will face for the second time this month. They recently fell to the Ohio side via penalty kicks in the Leagues Cup. Then, the Crew ended their five-game winning streak during the players’ best period of play this year. They fell 3-2 in that June fixture.
Additionally, NYCFC has not won in Columbus’ home stadiums since 2017, and this includes the Historic Crew Stadium and Lower.com Field. Sure, fans can argue the Pigeons did a decent enough job in their last match since they ended regulation in a 1-1 draw. These fans would bring up the fact the home team eventually won the Leagues Cup. They must put the draw in regulation to the side, for NYCFC struggles away from home. The exception over the last few years is the three road games in a row the team won earlier this season.
It is difficult to imagine the Boys in Blue winning this weekend, especially with players like Cucho Hernández and Diego Rossi in top form. A draw that is well played would be an acceptable result against the hot third-place team. Can NYCFC steal a point? Only time will tell, but the likelihood is low.
How to watch, time, and more of NYCFC’s road match in Columbus
Date
Time
7:30 PM ET, with expected kickoff at 7:40 PM ET
How to watch on TV and streaming
The MLS Season Pass via Apple TV
How to watch in person
Supporters could take a long weekend in Columbus since it is Labor Day Weekend
How to listen
newyorkcityfc.com/radio or via the NYCFC app
How to follow
If NYCFC fans cannot watch or listen to the game, they can follow along via MLS Soccer’s timeline and NYCFC’s X account.
Final Notes
Nick Cushing must put out his best Starting XI. Any argument of resting a player would be null and void since the team has a week off due to the international break. Again, a win, although not impossible, is highly unlikely. NYCFC could come away with a point, which could make the difference in the playoffs. Still, the side must fight for the win. Poor play is not an option.