The New York Red Bulls will host Philadelphia Union in the latest Major League Soccer (MLS) round this weekend at the Red Bull Arena.
With the visitors' post-season hopes under considerable threat as they sit in 10th place in the Eastern Conference table, getting a result in this encounter will be a major boost to their chances of a playoff place.
Match preview
The New York Red Bulls are in a formidable position as they enter this weekend's fixture, sitting comfortably in fourth place in the Eastern Conference. Their current standing reflects a strong push for a high playoff seeding, with their sights set on securing one of the top spots.
Following an early exit from the Leagues Cup, the Red Bulls have shown impressive resilience in their domestic campaign. Their most recent performance - a hard-fought 1-1 draw away against Charlotte FC — demonstrated their ability to maintain stability and competitiveness even under challenging circumstances.
The need to bounce back from the Leagues Cup exit was significant, and the Red Bulls met this challenge head-on with their performance. Securing a point against Charlotte FC, who were also vying for points to close the gap in the standings, highlighted their determination to keep the momentum and solidify their position in the playoff race.
This upcoming fixture against Philadelphia Union presents a significant challenge for the Bulls as they have faced considerable difficulties when up against the visitors, remaining winless in their last 13 encounters across all competitions.
Despite this historical struggle, there is still some reason for optimism, particularly due to the hosts' impressive home form that has made the Red Bull Arena into a fortress, as they remain the only side in the league still unbeaten at home.
This strong home record reflects their solid defensive setup and effective attacking play on familiar turf, which could prove to be a decisive advantage in this matchup against Philadelphia.
Philadelphia Union find themselves in a precarious position, currently sitting in 10th place in the Eastern Conference - a spot which leaves their playoff ambitions hanging by a thread, a stark contrast to their usual standing as consistent post-season contenders.
For a team that has reached the playoffs for six consecutive years, missing out this season would be a significant setback, amplifying the pressure as the regular season draws to a close.
This unfamiliar low standing is a clear signal of the challenges they have faced throughout the campaign, and with the playoff race tightening, each match now carries immense weight.
The Union are acutely aware that every point is critical, and any slip-up could see them miss out on the playoffs for the first time in seven years, a situation which has undoubtedly added a sense of urgency to their upcoming fixtures.
Manager Jim Curtin now faces the daunting task of reversing the team's fortunes; he must address the current slump and instill belief in his squad to secure a positive result against the high-flying Red Bulls.
Curtin's ability to inspire and tactically outmanoeuvre opponents will be crucial if Philadelphia are to salvage their season and make a late push for a playoff spot.
A significant portion of Philadelphia's hopes will rest on the shoulders of Daniel Gazdag, their most prolific goal scorer this season.
With 14 league goals to his name, Gazdag is one of the top marksmen in the league, underlining his importance to the Union's attack, and his ability to find the back of the net will be vital if the Union are to overcome their struggles and keep their playoff dreams alive.
Team News
The New York Red Bulls will be without Emil Forsberg, who remains sidelined due to a leg injury, while Roald Mitchell and Serge Ngoma are also unavailable for selection as they continue to recover from knee injuries.
There are further concerns for the Red Bulls, with Wiki Carmona, Andres Reyes, and Peter Stroud all listed as questionable.
Carmona is dealing with a thigh issue, Reyes has a foot problem, and Stroud is nursing an ankle injury. Their potential absence could be a blow to the squad, depending on their fitness closer to match day.
Isaiah LeFlore is expected to return in some capacity for Philadelphia after a spell on the sidelines with a knee injury.
Damion Lowe is no longer available, having secured a move to Saudi Arabia earlier this week.
New York Red Bulls possible starting lineup:
Coronel; Nealis, Alexandre, Eile, Duncan; Harper, Donkor, Edelman, Carmona; Morgan, Manoel
Philadelphia Union possible starting lineup:
Blake; Mbaizo, Glesnes, Elliott, Wagner; Martinez, Q Sullivan, Flach; Gazdag; Baribo, Uhre
We say: New York Red Bulls 2-1 Philadelphia Union
Philadelphia's experience and desperation to secure a playoff spot could see them push hard for a result.
However, New York's unbeaten record at Red Bull Arena and their solid defensive setup might be just enough to secure a narrow victory.
For data analysis of the most likely results, scorelines and more for this match please click here.
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