The New York Red Bulls are set to face Toronto FC in an exciting Major League Soccer clash at Red Bull Arena this Saturday.
Both teams are eager to secure three points as they navigate the midpoint of the season. Here’s a comprehensive preview including predictions, team news, and potential lineups.
New York Red Bulls' Recent Form
The New York Red Bulls have shown resilience this season, especially in their recent 2-2 draw against CF Montreal.
Coming from behind to earn a point, the Red Bulls have displayed a knack for persistence, which has seen them climb to third in the Eastern Conference with 31 points.
Despite a three-match winless streak, their home form remains strong, being the only Eastern Conference team yet to suffer a home defeat in the 2024 regular season.
Toronto's Struggles
Toronto FC, on the other hand, has been struggling to find consistency. Their recent 2-1 loss to Nashville SC extended their winless run to five matches, placing them seventh in the Eastern Conference with 24 points.
Defensive issues persist, having conceded the third-most goals in the conference this season.
However, they have shown some resilience on the road, claiming points in consecutive away fixtures.
Team News
New York Red Bulls
The Red Bulls will be missing several key players. Emil Forsberg is out with a foot injury, Serge Ngoma and Roald Mitchell are sidelined with knee injuries, and Peter Stroud is recovering from ankle surgery.
Lewis Morgan and Carlos Coronel are on international duty. However, the team can rely on Wikelman Carmona and Julian Hall, who have been crucial in recent matches.
Toronto FC
Toronto will be without Tyrese Spicer due to a back issue, Shane O'Neill with a quad injury, and Brandon Servania, who is out for the season.
Key players Richie Laryea and Jonathan Osorio are on international duty, and Sean Johnson is with the US national team.
Federico Bernardeschi, despite missing a penalty recently, remains a pivotal player, alongside Alonso Coello who scored his first MLS goal in their last match.
Predicted Lineups
New York Red Bulls (Formation: 4-4-2)
Meara; Duncan, S. Nealis, Eile, Tolkin; Harper, Edelman, Amaya, Carmona; Vanzeir, Manoel
Toronto FC (Formation: 3-4-2-1)
Gavran; Gomis, Long, Petretta; Bernardeschi, Coello, Thompson, Marshall-Rutty; Longstaff, Insigne; Owusu
Prediction
The New York Red Bulls' ability to secure points from losing positions gives them a psychological edge against a Toronto side plagued by defensive frailties.
The Red Bulls’ unbeaten home record this season and Toronto’s extended winless run make a home victory likely.
Our Prediction: New York Red Bulls 2-1 Toronto
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