This Saturday sees the eagerly awaited replay of the 2024 MLS Cup Grand Final, with the New York Red Bulls hosting the Los Angeles Galaxy at the Red Bull Arena. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM ET, and fans are buzzing with anticipation as both teams look to turn their seasons around after disappointing starts.
The New York Red Bulls have faced significant challenges this season, starting with five consecutive defeats that raised alarm bells. They ended the MLS season with just one win in their last four games, leaving Sandro Schwarz's side just one point below the post-season line in the Eastern Conference. However, the Red Bulls have found some solace at home, winning all their matches at the Red Bull Arena, which has instilled a bit of confidence among their supporters.
Unfortunately for the Red Bulls, they will be without several key players due to injuries. Serge Ngoma continues to miss out with a thigh strain, while Cameron Harper, Daniel Edelman, and Dylan Nealis are also sidelined due to thigh injuries. Lewis Morgan and Marcelo Morales are unavailable as well, but Felipe Carballo has made a recovery from a knee injury and is set to play.
On the other hand, the Los Angeles Galaxy are enduring a rough patch, having not won an MLS game since their title victory last season. They currently sit at the bottom of the Western Conference with only three points, making this their worst start to a season in club history. The Galaxy are the only team in the conference without a win, and a loss this weekend would mark their worst losing streak since 2020.
Head coach Greg Vanney has made some adjustments to the lineup, including the return of Marco Reus, who will be looking to spark some much-needed offense. The Galaxy have failed to score in five regular season games, a statistic that highlights their struggles. The only confirmed absence for LA is former Barcelona player Riqui Puig, who is out due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.
As both teams prepare for this critical matchup, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The last time LA Galaxy faced the Red Bulls, they lost 3-2, and they will be eager to avoid another defeat. Christian Ramirez has been a bright spot for the Galaxy, being the only player with multiple goals this season. If he can find the net again, it might just lift the Galaxy out of their current slump.
In terms of statistics, both teams have struggled offensively, with the Red Bulls scoring 12 goals (ranked 22nd) and allowing 13 (ranked 10th). The Galaxy, on the other hand, have only managed to score eight goals (ranked 26th) while conceding 21 (ranked 26th). This match represents an opportunity for both teams to rectify their shortcomings and gain some much-needed momentum.
Historically, the Red Bulls hold a slight edge in the all-time series, with a record of 20 wins, 18 losses, and 8 draws against the Galaxy. This upcoming game marks the 47th regular-season meeting between the two clubs. New York has performed well at home against LA, boasting a 3-1-1 record in their last five matchups at the Red Bull Arena.
The Red Bulls lineup will feature Carlos Coronel in goal, with Kyle Duncan, Noah Eile, Sean Nealis, and Omar Valencia forming the defensive line. Nealis is set to make his 133rd career MLS start, which will tie him with Aaron Long for second place in franchise history for the most starts by a defender. Daniel Edelman and Felipe Carballo will anchor the midfield, while the attacking trio will include Mohammed Sofo, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, and Emil Forsberg.
As for the Galaxy, they will rely on goalkeeper John McCarthy, who has had a challenging season but remains a key player for the team. The defensive lineup will consist of John Nelson, Miki Yamane, Maya Yoshida, and Carlos Garces. The midfield will feature Edwin Cerrillo, Diego Fagundez, and Marco Reus, while Christian Ramirez is expected to lead the attack alongside either Gabriel Pec or Miguel Berry, depending on fitness.
Fans will be able to catch the action live on Apple TV and MLS Season Pass, with coverage starting at 7:30 PM ET. The atmosphere at the Red Bull Arena promises to be electric, as both teams are desperate for a victory to reignite their seasons. This match not only carries the weight of rivalry but also the urgency of playoff aspirations.
As Matchday 12 of the MLS season kicks off, the weekend promises to deliver some of the most exciting action yet. With the Red Bulls and Galaxy both eager to make a statement, this rematch of the MLS Cup Final is set to be a thrilling encounter. Will the Red Bulls capitalize on their home advantage, or can the Galaxy find their footing and break their winless streak? Fans will have to tune in to find out!
