New York City FC take on the New England Revolution on Sunday afternoon. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30PM ET.Â
Here are the Keys to the Match, presented by Ford.
A Big Opportunity
New York City FC face another stern test on Sunday when they travel to face the New England Revolution.
Caleb Porter's side have enjoyed an impressive campaign and currently sit fourth in the Eastern Conference, making Gillette Stadium one of the toughest road trips in MLS.
For Pascal Jansen's side, however, the challenge also presents an opportunity. New York City have already shown this season they can compete with the league's best, and a victory against one of the East's top teams would provide the perfect response to recent results while strengthening their playoff position.
Form Guide
New York City continue their travels this week with a trip to Foxborough, Massachusetts.
Last season, Gillette Stadium proved an unhappy hunting ground, as goals either side of halftime handed the Revolution a 2-0 victory.
Historically, there has been little to separate the two clubs. Across 30 meetings, each side has claimed 11 wins, with the remaining eight ending in draws. New England have scored just one more goal than New York City across those encounters.
It was against the Revolution that New York City FC secured its first-ever MLS victory in 2015, thanks to goals from David Villa and Patrick Mullins. The two clubs also produced one of the defining moments in club history when New York City defeated New England on penalties in the 2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals en route to lifting MLS Cup.
Another chapter in this evenly matched rivalry will be written on Sunday afternoon.
Familiar Faces
It is not only New York City FC that have been active during the summer transfer window.
New England bolstered its attack with the signing of Jack Harrison from Leeds United. The winger is a familiar face to New York City supporters after beginning his professional career with the Club following the 2016 MLS SuperDraft.
After a successful spell in the Bronx, Harrison earned a move to England and now returns to MLS having already registered three assists for the Revolution. Containing his creativity will be a key task on Sunday.
There is another familiar connection in New England's squad. Will Sands, the brother of James, spent time in New York City's academy before starring at Georgetown University, where he helped the Hoyas win the 2019 NCAA College Cup. He began his MLS career with the Columbus Crew before joining the Revolution in 2024.
While there will be familiar faces on the opposing side, sentiment will quickly give way to competition as New York City chase an important three points.
