New York City FC vs New England Revolution: Preview and How to Watch
By Eric Harris
Two teams embodying the unpredictability of MLS go head to head in a mid week matchup.
Both NYCFC and New England have talented players, but have been all over the place this season. Patrick Viera’s side has proven they can be one of the best in MLS, but are coming off a 3-1 thrashing in Atlanta. New England is sitting outside of the playoff line right now, but have had no problems scoring, getting 12 in their last six.
New York City FC
Current Record : 6-2-5 (20 points, 3rd in Eastern Conference)
Last Time Out: 1-3 Loss at Atlanta United
Who to Watch: Andrea Pirlo. With Alexander Ring out for yellow card suspension, there will be more pressure on the Italian maestro in midfield. He won’t run a lot, but if he gets the ball with space to find passes, he’ll still have an impact.
Why they Win: Minimize the mistakes in the back and allow the midfield to pick apart New England with their passing. Basically the exact opposite of what happened on Sunday against Atlanta.
Why they Won’t: New England has players who take advantage of mistakes, and if NYCFC gives them those opportunities they could be playing from behind very quickly.
Projected Starting XI:
New England Revolution
Current Record: 4-5-4 (16 pts, 9th in Eastern Conference)
Last Time Out: 1-2 Loss at New York Red Bulls
Player to Watch: Lee Nguyen. The battle in the midfield will be intriguing thing to watch in this match. Nguyen will have his opportunities against a young back line. The Revs chances of success will be much higher if he can find an assist or goal.
Why they win: They can control the midfield and put pressure on NYC’s backline after over running their midfield. If their attacking players get space to run downhill things will be difficult for New York City.
Why they wont: They fall victim to some David Villa magic. New England is weaker on the wings, but NYCFC isn’t stronger out there, which means New England should have the advantage, but Villa has the talent to turn any game.
Projected Starting XI:
Prediction
How To Watch
Where: Yankee Stadium – Bronx, New York
When: Wednesday, May 31 – 7:30 pm ET
How to Watch: MLS Live