As Major League Soccer heats up, Nashville SC will host New York City FC at GEODIS Park this Saturday.
This clash, part of their 19th MLS contest of the season, promises to be a thrilling encounter with both teams eager to secure vital points. Let's delve into the team news, form, and predictions for this exciting matchup.
Match Preview
Nashville SC
Nashville SC comes into this match following a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Toronto FC.
This win placed them three points above the Eastern Conference playoff line. Since Rumba Munthali took over as interim manager, Nashville has collected points in five of their last six domestic games, including three clean sheets.
Despite their defensive resilience, Nashville has struggled offensively, with only 22 goals in 18 matches, the second-fewest among teams in playoff positions.
However, they maintain a perfect home record against NYCFC, having won their only meeting at GEODIS Park last year.
New York City FC
NYCFC, on the other hand, is experiencing a minor slump after back-to-back losses, including a recent 2-0 defeat to the LA Galaxy.
This was only the second time they failed to score since mid-March. Despite these setbacks, NYCFC has improved their away form, claiming points in their last four MLS away games.
A victory this weekend would set a new club record for consecutive away wins.
Team News
Nashville SC
Out: Julian Gaines (ankle), Randall Leal (hip), Lukas MacNaughton (ankle surgery)
Unavailable: Shaq Moore, Anibal Godoy, Jacob Shaffelburg (international duty)
Key Players: Sam Surridge (leading scorer with 7 goals), Hany Mukhtar (7 assists)
New York City FC
Out: Rio Hope-Gund (leg injury)
Returning: Mitja Ilenic (suspension), Kevin O'Toole, Thiago Martins (injury)
Key Players: Santiago Rodriguez (leading scorer), Maxi Moralez (seeking first start)
Possible Lineups
Nashville SC
Willis; Bauer, Zimmerman, Maher, Lovitz; Sejdic, Yearwood; Boyd, Mukhtar, Surridge; Bunbury
New York City FC
Freese; Gray, Martins, Risa, Ilenic; Parks, Sands; Wolf, Rodriguez, Perea; Mijatovic
Prediction
This matchup is poised to be closely contested, but NYCFC's creative midfield duo of Maxi Moralez and Santiago Rodriguez might have the edge.
Despite Nashville's strong home record, NYCFC's improved away form could see them securing a narrow victory.
Our Prediction: Nashville SC 1-2 New York City FC
Nashville 
Birmingham 
New York City 
