On this day in NYCFC history: The Pigeons secured a playoff berth on October 30, 2021

New York City FC might not be in the playoffs this season.  However, from 2016 through 2022, they saw the postseason every year.  Many times, the Pigeons exited heartbreakingly.  However, 2021 was a beautiful surprise of happiness and glory.  Part of the journey to their MLS Cup Championship began on October 30, 2021.

On this day in NYCFC history, the Pigeons traveled to Florida to play against Inter Miami CF.  Ronny Deila was the head coach, Sean Johnson was the captain, and only five players of the Starting XI are with the club today.

The game meant a lot to NYCFC, for a win would see them secure a playoff spot.  Not too long before, the team was at risk of missing the postseason.  Yet, this game occurred during their incredible end-of-the-year run that eventually led to the players lifting the trophy.

NYCFC secured a playoff spot on this day

The Bronx side beat the Herons thanks to Valentín Castellanos and Talles Magno.  The forwards led NYCFC to a 3-1 win.

Castellanos opened up the scoring in the 33rd minute.  The soon-to-be-named Golden Boot winner opened the scoring by shooting the ball into the back of the net from about 25 yards out.  He put his team in front thanks to a side-swept golazo. Miami did not make it easy though, for they scored an equalizer in the 56th minute.

That would be the only goal for the home team, but not the last one of the night.  Castellanos scored his second in the 60th minute.  The Argentine shot the ball into the goal to get his brace after Maxi Moralez had one of his perfect through-ball passes to his fellow countryman.  Undoubtedly, these moments are missed by NYCFC supporters. 

The third and final goal came from Talles Magno.  The Brazilian came on as a substitute and made an impact in the second half.  In the 83rd minute, he rolled the ball into the bottom right corner of the goal thanks to a pass from Castellanos.  The Argentine’s two goals and assist led to him being named the Man of the Match.

Overall, the game itself was an even battle.  NYCFC had just over 50% of the possession.  Then, the two sides had ten shots, with four on target each.  Fortune went the way of the Pigeons, and this win secured their place in the postseason. 

This was a magical time in the history of New York City FC.  After this current season, fans can only wish they will experience the glorious feeling of the 2021 run in the future.