New York City FC: Thiago leads comeback win against D.C. United

New York City FC went down early in the first half, but managed to win 2-1 in a comeback win

The last time New York City FC faced D.C. United, the Pigeons lost in the season opener, 2-1. Since then, both sides have earned four wins, and were separated by a mere point going into the game on Sunday night; NYCFC had 14 points, and then D.C. had 13. The Pigeons hoped to continue their winning ways after beating Atlanta United FC on Wednesday, and in the end they won 2-1, despite being down a goal most of the game.

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At first, NYCFC had a fast start, where they seemed to control the match, and had the edge over their opponents. However, in the 9th minute, the tides changed when Nigel Robertha scored his first goal for D.C. on a counter-attack. There was nothing Sean Johnson could do once again, for his defense could not stop the Dutch player. Then, throughout the first half, there were numerous chances for the Bronx side, but they could not capitalize with a goal.

After, in the second half, D.C. decided to park the bus, which led the Pigeons to an attacking half. They had almost 70% of the possession in the second 45 minutes, and kept on attacking toward the D.C. goal. But they still struggled to score, and had missed chances.

Additionally, New York City FC was the better side throughout the game. The team led in possession with about 64%, and had more chances in the attack. NYCFC got into the D.C. United box more often, and had 14 shots with seven shots on target. Alas, the goals were not arriving, and striker Valentín Castellanos’ goalless streak continued, and now stands at six games.

But, Ronny Deila made some changes, and brought on Talles Magno and Santiago Rodríguez in the 73rd minute. Thiago was already on the pitch after a first half change, so all three of the young newcomers had a chance to make a difference. And immediately following that change, the chances increased even more for New York City FC.

Right away, there was an increased intensity among the players. This urgency spread throughout everyone, and there was an increase in the pace of play. D.C. was comfortable to predominantly sit back, and NYCFC took their opportunities. And finally, in the 84th minute, the Bronx side was able to score their first goal.

The Pigeons were rewarded a corner, in which Maxi Moralez took from the right side. The Argentine then curled the ball into the box, and Keaton Parks was there. The midfielder headed the ball toward the left side of goal, where it hit the inner post and into the net. After going the entire game with a lot of fight and grit, NYCFC finally got their goal, and punished D.C. toward the end of the game.

Still, despite D.C. continuing to park the bus, NYCFC were not content with a point. The players continued to diligently work toward getting the second goal, but there was a scare in stoppage time where the Capitol side were maintaining possession, and had their chances on goal. Yet, the defense remained strong and compact, and Johnson even made a vital save in the 94th minute.

The moment of the game though came in the 95th minute, and in the final seconds of stoppage time. Johnson was able to grab the ball as D.C. attacked, and then threw a long throw toward Thiago. The young Brazilian then ran up the right side of the pitch in a speedy manner, going around defender Donovan Pines and leaving him in the dust. At that point, he made his way into the box, avoided Pines again, swept the ball past a falling Bill Hamid, and won the game for NYCFC.

Clearly, Thiago played extremely well throughout the match. He got into the attack and made vital runs and passes. But this goal, and in stoppage time, has brought nothing but hope and joy. New York City FC is starting to look formidable, and now they have a star in the making that goes by Thiago.

What is next?

To begin, there are some injury concerns for New York City FC. In the first half, Deila was forced to make a change in the 37th minute. Forward Jesús Medina had to come off due to a possible knock to his knee. It is unknown whether he picked up a serious injury, or whether Deila was being cautious. Nonetheless, if Medina was to miss game time, then it would be a loss for the Pigeons. He has been playing some of his best football so far this year, and had been an important part of the attacking third.

Then, earlier on Sunday, Alexander Callens had made the start for Peru in a Copa América match, but was subbed off in the first half. He suffered an injury to his leg, and the seriousness is unknown. Luckily, he was able to walk off on his own, but was not able to continue. Hopefully he is okay, and will be able to remain in the Copa América, and be healthy once he returns to NYCFC.

Regardless of the concerns, the Pigeons do not play again until July 7. They now have time to recover after the hectic game against D.C., and Deila has the time to tweak with his starting lineup. Although, there should be no hesitation to start Thiago in the next game; the 20 year old absolutely deserves to start. To add, the team has the 10 days to wholly focus on their match with CF Montréal.

Of course, there is the question where the match with the Canadian side will be. While Canada has opened the border for hockey players in the NHL, there is still the question of when the Canadian MLS teams will be able to return and play at home. Montréal has been playing their home games at Inter Miami’s home stadium, so it is possible the Pigeons will be heading to Florida for their match.

No matter where New York City FC plays, they are now on a two game winning streak, and this comeback win will only increase the players’ confidence. The team fought hard to grab all three points, and deservedly earned the win. And what is even better? They broke the shutout streak for D.C., and distinctly revealed that parking the bus is not the way to go. Rather, players like Parks and Thiago can break windows, and put the ball through the bus.

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