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)
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) /
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – November 4: Maxime Chanot #4 of New York City and Jeff Larentowicz #18 of Atlanta United jostle for position at corner kick during the New York City FC Vs Atlanta United FC MLS Eastern Conference Semifinal match at Yankee Stadium on November 4th, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – November 4: Maxime Chanot #4 of New York City and Jeff Larentowicz #18 of Atlanta United jostle for position at corner kick during the New York City FC Vs Atlanta United FC MLS Eastern Conference Semifinal match at Yankee Stadium on November 4th, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images) /

3. August 11th @ Atlanta United

Trips to Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Atlanta United have never been pleasant for New York City FC. However, in terms of entertainment, they tend to be one of the better games of the year.

Two of the top teams in the league battling in front of 70k+ fans creates an insane atmosphere that cannot be missed. Each time these sides face one another, sparks fly and almost anything can happen.

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After their 2018 competitive season ended with a pair of losses to the Five Stripes, New York City FC enter 2019 with a chip on their shoulder. This August battle would be the first time the clubs have battled since the Eastern Conference semi-final in November. A City win would be a great ego boost, especially on the road.

Lucking for NYCFC, Atlanta will be without Miguel Almiron, a player who has caused them lots of trouble in the past. The Paraguayan recently joined Newcastle United for a club record fee, letting the Boys in Blue breathe a bit easier when they take on United going forward.

The likelihood of this match having a big impact at the top of the Eastern Conference is high and could play a big part in playoff positions also. These are two of the very best teams in all of MLS, nevermind just Eastern Conference.

Atlanta United will feel as confident as ever, facing a team they’ve beaten multiple times in the past with a large crowd behind them. NYCFC, on the other hand, will be trying to break down the reigning MLS Cup champions and leave the a with a huge three points.