Matchday 2 Opposition Report: NYCFC
The Chicago Fire's opening match of the season against New York City FC is fast approaching, and Ezra Hendrickson is putting the final touches on his team as they prepare for Saturday. Ahead of the March 4th clash at Soldier Field, we asked a few questions about the Fire's first opponent of the season to John Baney of the Pigeons to give us an insight into NYCFC.
The last time the Fire met NYCFC was last August, with New York City winning 2-0 at Bridgeview. How has NYCFC changed over the offseason, and how do they shape up heading into the season?
NYCFC have lost a ton of talent this offseason, with the likes of Maxi Moralez, Sean Johnson, Alex Callens, Anton Tinnerholm, Nico Acevedo, and Héber all departing the club this winter. So, there’s been plenty of concern from the blue side of New York on how NYCFC is to replace so much talent for this upcoming season.
But, there is optimism that NYCFC will strengthen this squad as the season progresses. In the last 24 hours, the club has brought back highly-rated homegrown CDM/CB, James Sands, who will bring much-needed defensive solidity to the spine of this team after a loan spell at Rangers. But, further reinforcements will be needed if NYCFC are to meet the high expectations they’ve set for themselves over the past few seasons.
New York City dropped their opening match to Nashville, 2-0. Based on the preseason and the opening day match against Nashville, how do you expect NYC to approach the game against the Fire?
It’s hard to say how much the manager, Nick Cushing, will look to make adjustments after what was a very flat performance in the Music City last weekend on opening day. The inclusion of James Sands will be an interesting talking point, as I’ve heard he could be available for selection as early as this weekend. However, I’m a bit skeptical over whether or not he would go straight into the starting XI given how recently he’s re-joined the squad.
Regardless of Sand’s inclusion, my guess is that Cushing will line up in the same 4-2-3-1 formation that we saw last week, and City will look to control possession and dictate the flow of the game as they always try to do.
Which players should Fire fans keep a particular eye on this Saturday?
Talles Magno is the main danger man on this NYCFC front line. At the peak of his powers, it’s easy to see why he was brought in for a reported $8 million transfer fee, and why he finished 3rd on MLS’ 22 Under 22 list last season. He boasts a rare combination of silk, size, and strength, pulling out Neymar-esque moves in an almost Pogbe-esque, 6’1” frame.
But, the young Brazilian is going through something of an identity crisis at the moment, where he is being used as a striker out of necessity, despite being significantly more effective at left wing in his NYCFC tenure. He started last week at center forward but really struggled to get on the ball in dangerous areas and was ultimately shifted out wide for the second half. It will be very interesting to see how Nick Cushing sets him up this week in Chicago.
The Fire will take on NYCFC at 7:30 CT this Saturday at Soldier Field. The match will be streamed on Apple TV. Be sure to follow John's podcast, @ThePigeonsNYCFC!
