By Kelvin Loyola
FC Juárez has a solid shot at reaching the knockout round of the Leagues Cup, while the New York Red Bulls find themselves with longer odds but still in the race. Regardless, it's a must win situation for both sides when they meet in the final day of Phase One.
HEAD TO HEAD
- 1st ever meeting
- Record at Leagues Cup: Red Bulls (4-4), Juárez (5-3)
LAST FIVE GAMES
- New York Red Bulls
- 2 Wins, 0 Draws, 3 Losses
- Won their opening game on late game-winner by Emil Forsberg, then gained one point in a shootout loss to Monterrey.
- FC Juárez
- 2 Wins, 2 Draws, 1 Losses
- Defeated Charlotte 4-1 in an impressive opener, and then got an important two points in a shootout win over Cincinnati.
MAIN STORYLINES
- The Red Bulls’ attack has been quiet in the Leagues Cup, scoring just two goals in their two matches.
- Emil Forsberg will be the focal point of the Red Bulls' attack. As the Swedish international goes, so go the Red Bulls.
- Juárez has won both of its games in the competition as the “away” team, showing adaptability and resiliency.
- Through two games, Juárez has scored six goals which is tied for the most among any Liga MX team.
KEY FACTORS
- New York Red Bulls
- The Red Bulls have a positive record against Liga MX teams, holding a 6-1-5 record over their 30-year history.
- Goalkeeper Carlos Coronel will have his hands in keeping a clean sheet and preventing Juarez from striking early.
- The Red Bulls will need a full-team effort to earn a win. Their attacking struggles are well documented—they haven't scored more than one goal in their last four matches.
- FC Juárez
- Juárez has performed well against MLS opponents, winning five of their last seven matches (5 wins, 2 losses).
- Madson has netted two goals so far in the tournament and could be a major threat in Martín Varini's attack.
- Brazilian midfielder Guilherme Castilho is another dangerous weapon, he has a goal and two assists this tournament.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Expect Juarez to lean into their successful “road mentality” to contain a struggling Red Bulls side. New York will likely attempt to stay compact defensively and seek an early counter-attacking goal.
Given their limited offensive output, the Red Bulls will have to rely on a strong defensive performance to keep Juarez at bay.
This is your classic offense vs defense matchup. The Red Bulls have only conceded one goal through two games while Juárez has scored six It could be a long day at the office for Carlos Coronel if he doesn't get offensive support.
With both teams needing a win to advance, it's winner-take-all in what shapes up to be one of the better games of the night.
