Saturday, April 27th
NYCFC will look for their third win in seven days on Saturday when Nani and Orlando City visit Yankee Stadium for an early afternoon battle. The former Manchester United winger will look to stay hot, as he’s scored in three consecutive matches. Saturday will be City’s last home match until June 6th, and after a strong defensive showing Wednesday night, NYCFC may finally be turning the corner.
Projected Lineup
Domè seems to have found his ideal formation both home and away. The 5-3-2 that City have lined up in as of late has become a 5-2-1-2 with the injury of Ismael Tajouri-Shradi. James Sands has been a rock in defense between Alexander Callens and Maxime Chanot, allowing both outside fullbacks freedom to get forward along the touchlines. With Ronald Matarrita injured again and likely to miss Saturday’s contest, Ben Sweat will step into the left-fullback role as he did on Wednesday. City supporters have been clamoring for the inclusion of loanee Keaton Parks since the start of the season, and although he would absolutely thrive in this system, Domè will almost certainly stick with Ebenezer Ofori alongside Alex Ring in the midfield. Alexandru Mitriță trained on Friday, but will still carry a Questionable tag into Saturday’s contest. If Mitriță is fit to start, the front three will be incredibly dangerous, and with Jonathan Lewis and Ismael Tajouri-Shradi ready as subs off the bench, it is easy to see why City fans are finally getting excited.
Player Stats
New York City FC:
Goals: Alex Ring (2), Ismael Tajouri-Shradi (2), Alexandru Mitriță (2), Taty (2)
Assists: Maxi Moralez (3), Héber (2)
Orlando City:
Goals: Nani (4), Dom Dwyer (3), Chris Mueller (2)
Assists: Nani (4), Three Players (2)
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