It has been a long and difficult hiatus from writing, from defeats to unexpected results, the champions have felt the impact of the sudden departures within the team. Interim manager Nick Cushing has battled with injuries and suspensions to find the winning formula to bring the team back on the right path. But things never go according to plan and results have brought a sense of insecurity towards the last stretch of the season. The Campeones Cup match was on the calendar for a few months, but given the circumstances, it may have been the turning point that the team was looking for. The chance for silverware is always an incentive, but the reigning Liga MX champions Atlas F.C. meant business. The Bronx was set to host yet another championship game for the books.
The Champions Return
The fixture between NYCFC and Atlas F.C. was a fixture not many were looking forward to given the home team’s recent results. Supporters felt like a defeat wasn’t necessary on the international stage. Many others viewed it as just another cash grab fixture. But despite the negativity, the expectations were high ahead of the match. Atlas F.C. arrived as the reigning Mexican champion with a back to back wins. Los rojinegros had to wait 70 years for a championship shot, so representing Liga MX came with honor. Luckily the MLS representatives had bragging rights themselves. Current champions NYCFC come from a first-ever championship (yes I have to recap) and currently continue to defend the title in the current season. Overall, the match showed a lot of promise, fans showed up and both teams put out their best lineups for the game.
There were some surprises in the NYCFC lineup, at goal without Johnson and in attack with O’Toole gaining his first start with the team. But it’s safe to say that Luis Barraza did exceptionally in goal. Especially having players like Edison Flores and Julio Furch as your rivals for 90 minutes. But as the match started, winds of change were immediately in order for the Boys in Blue. It only took 4 minutes for the team to go in front after Callens caught a rebound caused by Nicolas Acevedo. It was the perfect start for the home team, but the main fear was having Atlas settle in the match and cause NYCFC to fall back. However, Barraza was quick enough to add reassurance to some of the concerns. A solid performance by the Goalkeeper left Atlas with little to no chance, aside from a few scary rebounds inside the box during the first half. It was surprising to see that the game plan was flowing smoothly, the visitors couldnt find a way through, constantly losing the ball in midfield. The game plan was working and NYCFC left for halftime with a one-goal advantage.
The second half saw almost a repeat with the exception of having Talles Magno on the field after Heber came off with an injury. The Brazilian once again displayed why he’s one of the top talents to watch in this NYCFC team. In a play started in midfield by Magno himself, found space for a combination with Santiago Rodriguez and Maxi Moralez for the second goal of the match. I have to say it was great to see him enjoying the moment, things haven’t been the best lately. But as the clock continued its course, those in attendance saw the return of a household name to the Bronx. Keaton Parks made yet another comeback after being sidelined for another blood clot. Santi was also subbed off towards the end of the match looking ahead to the derby against the Red Bulls on Saturday. In general lines, it was a match that lived up to the expectations. The flashlights made a quick appearance alongside the “wave” among the fans. Despite the bad timing, I can assure those in attendance had a very good time throughout the 90 minutes.
As the whistle signaled the end of the match NYCFC got to add a new trophy to their ongoing championship year. It was nice to see the team celebrate winning a trophy with the home fans at last. It sure wasn’t the same to celebrate a championship on the other side of the country. All things considered, I think this was a win that the team needed to have. The objective was to turn the page with a victory to face the Derby with renewed spirits. It’s safe to say that the champions returned at the best moment, but is it enough to close out the season and hope for a good playoff run? In the end, They came, they saw, and they conquered.
Let’s enjoy the moment for now and in the words of Heber himself “La final no se juega, La final se gana”. Felicidades NYCFC.