New York City FC’s final regular season game in the BX is almost here.
With reigning MLS champions Atlanta United coming to town, here’s the Keys to the Match, presented by Tri-State Ford…
1st vs. 2nd
Wednesday night’s visit of Frank de Boer’s side marks the 17th and final regular season home game for NYCFC in 2019.
It could be a night to remember too, with the Eastern Conference title and a CONCACAF Champions League berth on the line.
In the event of a City win, we would have to wait until the early hours of Thursday morning to know for sure if we've clinched, but three points against the reigning champions would put all the pressure on Philadelphia as they take on the San Jose Earthquakes on the West Coast.
NYCFC’s encounters with Atlanta United have always carried that big match vibe, but this 1st vs. 2nd encounter is huge by any measure.
The Return of H9
It will be a slightly patched-up NYCFC side vs. Atlanta following a bruising road draw with FC Dallas in Frisco.
Anton Tinnerholm (concussion - out) and Keaton Parks (hamstring - questionable) both were casualties of a feisty one in Frisco, but City are boosted by the return of their leading scorer.
It’s been a whole squad effort to put NYC in a great position for the postseason but the impact of Héber since his arrival from HNK Rijeka has been undeniable.
Dome hinted to reporters in his media briefing that the 14-goal striker could be good for 30’ on Wednesday night which would be sure to earn a hearty reception from the Bronx faithful on Fan Appreciation Night.
Keeping Momentum
Although a point from the Dallas road trip was slightly frustrating given the team’s early lead, it’s worth keeping in perspective the run that this team has been on.
City are unbeaten in their last eight games (6W-2D), the joint longest active run in MLS and the second-longest such run in team history (12 straight unbeaten earlier this season).
We’ve had positive momentum for a long time in the season now and the key will be to maintain these levels through the regular season’s final tests and go into the postseason with this same energy.
Fan Appreciation Night
Not only do we have one of the matches of the season for you, but it’s also Fan Appreciation Night.
Wednesday is all about spreading the love and giving back to the supporters who’ve powered the team to a best-ever MLS regular season points return.
With giveaways and post-match festivities planned, you’re not going to want to miss this one…
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