New York City FC: 5 must-watch matches in 2019

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – October 31: David Villa #7 of New York City celebrates with team mates Maxi Moralez #10 of New York City Ismael Tajouri-Shradi #29 of New York City, Ronald Matarrita #22 of New York City and Anton Tinnerholm #3 of New York City after scoring his sides second goal during the New York City FC Vs Philadelphia Union MLS Eastern Conference Knockout match at Yankee Stadium on October 31st, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)

With the 2019 MLS regular season just under a month away, here are five must-watch New York City FC matches to keep an eye out for on the calendar.

After another disappointing end to a rather strong MLS campaign, New York City FC enter their fifth season with some questions to answer.

With David Villa, the team’s captain and all-time leading goalscorer, leaving the team for Japan, there is an undeniable hole in the squad. The Spaniard flourished in big games, helping the team battle with rivals such as the New York Red Bulls and Atlanta United. Who will step up in his absence?

The performance of head coach Domènec Torrent also came under scrutiny towards the end of the 2018 season, some fans even calling for his replacement. With a transfer window under his belt and a fresh season to work with, Torrent has high expectations to reach for 2019. This is sure to be another rip-roaring season for the Cityzens.

So, here are five New York City FC games you can’t miss this year.

WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 8: D.C. United goalkeeper Bill Hamid (28) is congratulated by New York City FC goalkeeper Sean Johnson (1) at RFK Stadium in Washington, DC on April 8, 2017. (Photo by Jonathan Newton/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

5. March 10 vs D.C. United

New York City FC return home for the first time this season to host D.C. United on March 10th. Both teams finished in playoff positions at the conclusion of the 2018 campaign and anything less this time around would be considered a failure. There would be no better start to the campaign than three points over conference rivals.

This match-up will be an early test for a NYCFC side that struggled against D.C. in both of their match-ups last year. When United visited Yankee stadium last September, they controlled the match with relative ease. A Steve Birnbaum goal appeared to be the winner before a David Villa free-kick earned the hosts a point.

City’s first-ever visit to Audi Field a month later went even worse. D.C. were able to score three unanswered goals before Villa netted a consolation goal prior to full time.

Not only will the Pigeons be looking to start the season off on a good note, but D.C. have a lot to prove as well. After turning their season around completely and earning a spot in the playoffs, Ben Olsen’s men will be looking to show that that wasn’t a fluke and that they are legitimate contenders in the East.