Are troubled times returning for New York City FC? That is what some fans are asking as the team heads into Friday on a three-match losing streak. The Columbus Crew match arguably should have been a draw while the Pigeons could have stolen a point or three from Nashville SC if they actually put a strike on target. Instead, they earned zero of a possible nine points over the last week.
Nevertheless, the next fixture is one they should win. NYCFC will be at home in front of their fans and they will play against Orlando City SC. The Florida side is in tenth place with 21 points. However, they have a 3-3-3 away record. This illuminates they are a threat no matter where they play. They also have a player who was second in voting for the Young Player of the Year in 2023: Duncan McGuire. The 23-year-old currently has six goals this season and almost made his way overseas. A failed transfer is why the talented forward is still with Orlando and has six goals to his name in 2024.
In order to win, NYCFC has to first get shots on target. Then, they have to capitalize on their chances. Moreover, as much as it would be nice for Mounsef Bakrar to score consistently, Nick Cushing has to give his other strikers chances to start. It would be nice to see Jovan Mijatović receive a few starts in a row to see whether he will start scoring. The Bronx team needs a hero, but one cannot be that hero with reduced playing time.
While a win is wanted and needed, at least NYCFC supporters can guarantee that Friday will be a celebration, for it is their Pride game. The Pigeons will celebrate Pride by having themed retail available before the match. In addition, drag queen Jan Sport will sing the national anthem prior to kickoff. As of now, there do not appear to be events like there were at Gotham FC's Pride game.
How to watch, time, and more of the game between NYCFC and Orlando City SC
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 can attend the match in person at Yankee Stadium
How to listen
newyorkcityfc.com/radio, via the NYCFC app, or SiriusXM FC on Channel 157
How to follow
If NYCFC fans cannot watch or listen to the match, they can follow along via NYCFC’s X account and MLS Soccer’s timeline.
Final Notes
It is expected, that if NYCFC does not win, then the shouts for Cushing’s sacking will resume. Therefore, the pressure to win is extremely high, especially at home.