By Juan Carlos Maygua
NYCFC overcame the odds and pulled off the upset against New England. This allowed them to
make their appearance in the conference final for the first time in team history. Rivals
Philadelphia Union also made their first appearance in this stage, however, they had unfortunate
setbacks hours away from the fixture. The Union called 3 players from their academy to make up
for the last-minute problem. Nonetheless, both teams were ready to make history.
Philadelphia had extra motivation having their fans behind them. The locals have been able to
make their fans the 12th man, but NYCFC is no stranger to playing under pressure. With the
match underway Philadelphia did what any local team would do, starting in the attack and
managing to unsettle the Boys in Blue. The first 45 minutes turned very physical, forcing
NYCFC to make a few mistakes in the defensive line. Callens stepped up once again making
clear interventions to keep the game level. NYCFC struggled to connect passes as Philadelphia
played a very specific man-marking system. Players like Maxi and Santiago Rodriguez were
unable to create opportunities with multiple players around them. Both teams made it to halftime
level, but Philadelphia was the better team.
For the second 45 minutes, head coach Ronny Deila made modifications within 10 minutes of
the half. The team was still not comfortable on the field and the wings were NYCFC’s most
vulnerable aspect. Ironically the three changes completely changed the team and proved to be
key for the outcome of the game. It’s safe to say that the team has shaped around Taty’s
movements, but it was great to see Heber back after his ACL injury. However, Philadelphia
continued to set the tempo and grew in confidence. Union would go up in the scoreboard after an
unfortunate touch by Callens pushed the ball into his net.
To some extent, it was neck and neck and the connections to a classic Rocky Balboa would go
on full effect after Maxi Moralez equalized for NYCFC just two minutes after Philadelphia
scored. The midfielder not only placed the Boys in Blue Back in the game, but he also gave a
low hit to the home crowd and stunned Philadelphia in the process. The dynamic of the game
turned in favor of NYCFC with the equalizer. The final punch for the boys in blue arrived in the
88th minute after Thorarinsson capitalized on a bad ball control from a Philadelphia defender.
Talles Magno was free to put the ball in the back of the net. The young Brazilian confirmed his
ongoing rise within the team. His goal was enough to help NYCFC reach an MLS Cup final and
award the team with their first conference title.
While there’s one more game to play, this team has achieved historic success this season.
Fighting through tough moments and staying together to achieve greatness. Time to celebrate
indeed, but Portland awaits.
Congratulations NYCFC. Happy to be part of history.