New York City FC (NYCFC) will host the Seattle Sounders at Citi Field on October 21, 2023, in a match with significant playoff implications. Kickoff is set for 18:00 ET. The outcome of this game could determine whether NYCFC secures a home playoff match or faces a challenging away game in the first round.
A victory for NYCFC, combined with a loss or draw from Charlotte FC, would ensure that playoff soccer returns to New York City. In their last outing, NYCFC suffered a narrow defeat to the Philadelphia Union, which resulted in Philadelphia clinching the Supporters Shield and the Eastern Conference title. The international break prior to this match has provided both teams with an opportunity to recharge and aim for momentum heading into the playoffs.
While the Sounders have already secured their playoff position, they will be looking to build confidence before facing either Minnesota United, LAFC, or San Diego FC in their first playoff game. For NYCFC to maintain any hope of hosting a playoff match, they must secure at least a point against Seattle. A loss could see them drop as low as seventh place, potentially setting up a first-round match against Inter Miami, a daunting prospect.
NYCFC’s recent performance has been bolstered by standout players, particularly Alonso Martinez, who has emerged as a pivotal figure this season. Martinez’s goals have been critical to the team’s offensive strategy, and he recently demonstrated his prowess by scoring two goals and providing an assist in Costa Rica’s World Cup Qualifying match against Nicaragua. Coach Pascal Jansen will rely heavily on his contributions as the team aims for a strong finish to the regular season.
On the other side, the Sounders have key players such as Christian Roldan and Albert Rusnak to watch. Roldan has been a standout performer, earning the title of man of the match on six occasions this season. Recently, he also played a crucial role for the US men’s national team in a comeback victory against Australia, assisting both goals in a 2-1 win.
The historical rivalry between NYCFC and Seattle adds another layer of intrigue to this match. In their previous encounters, the teams have each won three games, with the last meeting ending in a draw during the Concacaf Champions League over three years ago. Only two players from NYCFC’s last starting lineup against Seattle remain: Tayvon Gray and Thiago Martins, while Seattle retains eight players from that match.
As the teams prepare to meet at Citi Field, the stakes could not be higher. NYCFC’s quest for home-field advantage in the playoffs hinges on their performance against the Sounders. A win not only promises a thrilling conclusion to the regular season but could also set the stage for an exciting playoff run in New York City.
