New York City Football Club host Orlando City SC on Wednesday night at Citi Field.
Here are the Keys to the Match presented by Ford...
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Nick Cushing was asked about the status of Keaton Parks during Monday’s pre-match press conference.
The midfielder’s situation is a delicate one and it’s unclear if he’ll be available for Wednesday’s clash against Orlando. In the even he is unavailable it will open up an opportunity for a teammate to step in.
Cushing has several possible changes he can enact, including Alfredo Morales, Richy Ledezma, Julián Fernández, Andres Jasson, Alonso Martinez, and Talles Magno. That strength and depth is a huge asset for the team and can help change the way the team operates. That element of surprise could be key in catching Orlando out and claiming all three points.
Goals Galore
Orlando City SC have seen its fair share of goals lately.
Of the Lions last five MLS outings, four have had a minimum of two goals. That goal-heavy habit hit a new height on Saturday against Columbus Crew when a seven-goal thriller played out in Florida.
Oscar Pareja’s men came from 3-1 down to win the contest 4-3 and claim all three points. Orlando’s style certainly shares similarities with that of NYCFC’s and both sides will be keen to control possession and play quickly on transition.
While Orlando haven’t been shy in scoring goals, they’ve also struggled to keep them out. The team has just one clean sheet in its last five MLS games and those combined factors mean it should be an enthralling contest on Wednesday.
Citi Field Spectacular
NYCFC head to the World’s Borough on Wednesday night in search of a win.
While much is rightly made of the team’s performances at Yankee Stadium it shouldn’t be undersold what role Citi Field has played for the Club. You fans brings the noise wherever the team play, but there is something special about that Queens atmosphere, particularly under the lights for a night game.
Whether it was last season’s playoff contest against Inter Miami CF, or this season, with the back-to-back wins in Queens against Nashville and FC Dallas, something special hangs in the air of Queens, and tomorrow would be the perfect time to etch the next installment of that story.
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