This wait is nearly over. This Sunday marks the first meeting between crosstown rivals New York Red Bulls and New York City FC at Red Bull Arena. The historic match features two sides eager for three points and bragging rights in the city. The Red Bulls have never faced NYCFC, but have played and defeated City Football Group’s Manchester City in 2010, thanks to a game-winning goal from Dane Richards. Regardless of the result, the New York Derby is sure to be one of the most exciting matchups of the 2015 MLS season.
Coverage of the match between New York Red Bulls and New York City FC on Sunday, May 10 at Red Bull Arena will begin at 7 p.m. EDT (TV: FOX Sports 1; RADIO: RBNY English/Spanish Internet Radio). For travel tips and further directions on how to get to the game, check out the Red Bull Arena Transportation HUB.
Here are some important statistics and a look ahead to the first New York Derby.
New York Red Bulls
- Record: 3-1-4, 13 points, third place in Eastern Conference (as of Friday, May 8)
- Previous Match: RBNY loss, 2-1 vs. New England Revolution
- Record in Last Five Matches: 1-1-3
- Leading Goal Scorer: Lloyd Sam/Bradley Wright-Phillips (3)
- Assist Leader: Felipe/Bradley Wright-Phillips (3)
- Saves Leader: Luis Robles (21)
New York City FC
- Record: 1-5-3, six points, eighth place in Eastern Conference (as of Friday, May 8)
- Previous Match: NYCFC loss, 3-1 vs. Seattle Sounders
- Record in Last Five Matches: 0-4-1
- Leading Goal Scorer: Mehdi Ballouchy/David Villa (2)
- Assist Leader: Ned Grabavoy (2)
- Saves Leader: Josh Saunders (24)
Tactics
New York City FC lines up in a 4-4-2 turned 4-2-3-1 formation, and occasionally a 4-1-4-1. NYCFC, similar to the Red Bulls, play a high-press which have resulted in mixed returns. With a new team and mix-and-match lineups, NYCFC have struggled to develop continuity and miscommunication between the back line and the midfield have cost them goals. For the Red Bulls, effectively maintaining possession and applying high pressure on NYCFC’s back line are keys to winning the first ever New York Derby.
Who to Watch
One key to victory for New York Red Bulls is winning the midfield battle, and Sacha Kljestan must be instrumental in the middle. In New York’s previous match, Kljestan scored his second goal of the season. Played in by Mike Grella, Kljestan charged through New England’s back line, pushed his first touch past the charging Bobby Shuttlesworth and buried his chance into the open goal. By pressing forward, applying pressure to defenders and creating opportunities for Bradley Wright-Phillips, Kljestan ability to create in the final third could be the difference in the match. Furthermore, if the midfield triangle of Kljestan, Dax McCarty and Felipe clog passing lanes and force turnovers, the Red Bulls will be free to execute their attacking focused game plan.
David Villa is the man to watch for the visiting New York City FC. The Spaniard has totaled two goals and one assist so far this season, and has been NYCFC’s most dangerous attacking player. The designated player scored in NYCFC’s lone victory on March 15 against New England Revolution and attracts the most attention from defenders. He also brings the most valuable experience in derby matches, having participated some of the world’s most heated crosstown rivalries with former clubs Valencia, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in La Liga. Strong play from Villa, along with U.S. international Mix Diskerud, will be essential for success on Sunday.
