New York City FC: Home sweet home win
New York City FC beat Orlando City SC 5-0 in their first game at Yankee Stadium since May
After a long few months of home games in New Jersey, New York City FC were finally back in action at Yankee Stadium on Sunday. Not only does the team play well in the Bronx, but more fans showed up since many boycott Red Bull Arena. Therefore, the Pigeons officially had the true home advantage for the first time since May 15, and the familiarity of a stadium they know so well.
So, in a New York City spectacular fashion, NYCFC returned home in a 5-0 win against Orlando City SC. The result was a long time coming, for the Pigeons have been predominantly outplaying other teams, but failed to score the goals they should have scored.
At first, the match was well controlled by New York City FC, but the players were struggling to make meaningful shots. Orlando also closed down defensively, and limited the chances for the Bronx side. But the energy and commitment shown illustrated a goal was likely, but in this case, the team ended with five.
Toward the later minutes of the first half, NYCFC started to take more chances, and were rewarded in the 40th minute. Valentín Castellanos was in a battle with Antônio Carlos to possess the ball. But the two collided with one another before a slight kick led the Argentine to fall. Luckily, Jesús Medina was there and retrieved the ball, not allowing Orlando defenders a chance to defend. His swift pace, and quick thinking, resulted in a strike into the top left corner of the goal, and brought his team in front.
Even if the other goals did not arrive, that one goal would have been enough. Fortunately, NYCFC put on a show in their first game back home. Ismael Tajouri-Shradi scored a golazo that Pedro Gallese could not stop, Maxi Moralez scored his first of the season on a second chance opportunity, and Malte Amundsen scored his first for the club. But more importantly, the fifth and final goal came from Castellanos, who officially ended his goalless streak.
In the 82nd minute, Moralez attempted to get his second of the night, but the shot was saved. The ball then fell to Castellanos, who had a clear chance on goal. Finally, for the first time since May 8, he took his chance and scored. The goal was well deserved, and it perfectly capped off a fantastic night for New York City FC.
However, Castellanos’ performance was once again superb, and was a vital piece in the Starting XI. If he did not score a goal, then his presence in the attack was still felt. Overall, including the goal, he had four shots with all four on target. His expected goals were 2.17 as well, and he had one assist on the night. Evidently, he is an important presence in the attack, and his fight for the ball in the 40th minute that led to the Medina goal proves he does not sit and wait. Not only was the goal deserving, but his effort throughout the game proves he is a force to be reckoned with.
Let’s talk about Medina
In his first few years with New York City FC, Medina faced a lot of criticism, and rightfully so. He was brought on as Young Designated Player, and was supposed to be the next big name. Sadly, Medina played poorly in those first few years, and failed to contribute to the attack in a consistent manner.
Up until this year, fans wanted Medina gone. But now, after losing his Designated Player status, the Paraguayan is finally churning out goals, with the one against Orlando being his seventh. He contributes more in the final third, and even has an assist to his name for the 2021 season. Medina also continued to improve his ability to provide chances, which he started with last season.
Obviously, Medina is having his best season to date with NYCFC. While there is still plenty of room to improve, this is what fans wanted from the beginning. But, the question is whether he deserves a contract extension, or a new contract when the season concludes. Currently, based on his entire tenure with the Pigeons, the answer would be no. At the same time, this season may show glimpses of what he may offer over the next few years.
Plus, NYCFC needs to see how he performs over the rest of the season. There is a chance Medina finishes the year strongly, but if the club can sign a more talented forward, then maybe it is better to let him walk after the season is over.
No matter what the club decides, Medina has been crucial this year, especially during Castellanos’ goal drought. Hopefully he continues to score goals, and leads New York City FC to more wins.