If you have caught World Cup fever and are in need of a fix at the end of the weekend, tune in to the Hudson River Derby for two of the best teams in the MLS Eastern Conference. The two New York teams are set to square off once more when the NY Red Bulls take on New York City FC in iconic Yankee Stadium. The New York Red Bulls have dominated this rivalry since its inception with eight wins in 12 matches, including a 7-0 win in this venue two years ago. NYCFC have been able to win the last two games in this venue though.
Don't miss the Major League Soccer action from Yankee Stadium at 7 p.m. ET on Sunday, July 8, 2018. Catch every moment of the match live on ESPN.
MLS Betting Odds at BookMaker.eu
New York City FC +104
NY Red Bulls +234
Draw +283
Over/Under 3
Odds Analysis
New York City FC were one of the hottest teams in the MLS to start the season, but they have cooled down a bit. They are currently in third place in the East with 31 points, and they are in a great position to make the playoffs at the halfway point in the season. NYCFC have been fantastic at home this season with a 7-0-1 record in Yankee Stadium.
The Red Bulls are in second place in the East. However, they have taken away more points from their matches than conference leader Atlanta United on average, and that puts them in the driver’s seat in the conference. They have the best defense in the East, with only 18 goals allowed through their first 16 matches. The Red Bulls are also one of just two teams in the East with a winning record away from home.
Last Meetings
If you’re a fan of NYCFC, look away right now. The Red Bulls have crushed NYCFC in both of their meetings this season. Their first meeting came two months ago in regular season action. Then, the Red Bulls were able to get two goals in the first four minutes of action setting them up fantastically. They were eventually able to add two more and pick up a 4-0 win.
The Red Bulls cemented their dominance further with a 4-0 win last month in the fourth round of the US Open Cup. Although neither side brought out their usual starters, the Red Bulls played a lineup full of reserves while NYCFC mixed starters with reserves. Winning in such a manner might have permanently shaken the confidence of NYCFC.
Key Absences
Coming into this match, there are a number of injuries on the side of NYCFC. Midfielder Yangel Herrera suffered an ankle injury last month and will be out for the remainder of the season. Additionally, defenders Cedric Hountondji and Ronald Matarrita are set to miss the match with hamstring injuries. The biggest absence though will be forward David Villa. Villa has been NYCFC’s talisman since coming to the MLS, and he will certainly be missed here.
For the Red Bulls, the team has a long-term injury with defender Kyle Duncan. Midfielder Vincent Bezecourt has been ruled out for around another month with an MCL sprain too. The team is a little more optimistic about the status of goalkeeper Ryan Meara though who is questionable for this one.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
This is a must-win game for NYCFC. The club has been on a skid ever since manager Patrick Vieira left to manage Ligue 1 side Nice. A loss against their city rival could send them into a freefall, while a win could spark a recovery. I am expecting the former here without Villa in the lineup, so take the Red Bulls on the three-way line.
Major League Soccer Odds: NY Red Bulls 2, New York City FC 1
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