New York Red Bulls vs New York City FC Prediction, Betting Odds, Picks

• An injury will keep a key player out of NYCFC’s XI this weekend
• In the hunt for an invitation to the playoffs, the Red Bulls are gaining some serious ground
• Up top, the Red Bulls will be able to rely on a game-changing striker

New York Red Bulls vs New York City FC Odds

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Get ready for 2021’s third edition of the Hudson River Derby!

Ahead of a final sprint towards the end of the MLS regular season, the New York Red Bulls will host crosstown rivals New York City FC this Sunday at Red Bull Arena.

With a win and a draw in their previous meetings this season, the Red Bulls currently have the advantage.

Not only will they be hosting this weekend’s game, but they’ll also have plenty of momentum with their six-game undefeated streak.

NYCFC, on the other hand, have looked tired in recent months. They only have one win in their last eight games and are slowly dropping down the Eastern Conference table.

Coupled with an injury to one of their starters, there might not be much hope for NYCFC.

This looks like another big opportunity for the home side.

Pick Red Bulls for the win. (+275)

It hasn’t been the best stretch of games for NYCFC since September. Their goalscoring has started to dry up, and in their last three matches, they weren’t able to find the back of the net. Even the prolific Valentin Castellanos — who is in the running for the league’s MVP award — has looked off in his last couple of games. Defensively, they’ve been questionable as well.

Although manager Ronny Deila has tightened things up in October, there has been no lack of examples of frailties that have emerged from the backline. And unfortunately for NYCFC, an injury to one of their top players will make things even more challenging against the Red Bulls.

New York Red Bulls vs New York City FC Predictions

Anton Tinnerholm’s Injury Is A Serious Blow For NYCFC

It’s not easy to replace a veteran with 25 appearances this season.

Earlier this month, news emerged that NYCFC right-back Anton Tinnerholm had suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon. The 30-year-old Swedish player, who had provided three assists this season, is a well-rounded defender who was able to contribute plenty in the backline and also in the attack.  Without him, NYCFC’s chances of claiming even an away draw have dwindled. Likely needing to rely on a younger backup, the right flank will now be vulnerable.

Red Bulls Are Eyeing A Late Dash Towards A Playoff Spot

Following what initially looked to be an underwhelming 2021 season, the Red Bulls are now making a last-minute sprint in the playoff race.

At time of writing before the start of the MLS weekend, the Red Bulls could feasibly sneak into a playoff-worthy spot in the top seven of the East if they win.

Which isn’t out of the question just yet.

Most of the results have been narrow and low-scoring, but they’re undefeated in their last six matches and have only allowed two goals during that run. There’s a lot of excitement surrounding the team, and within the roster, there is also a recognition to not drop their energy at a crucial point in the season.

“We have put ourselves in a good position, but we know that we have to continue to win,” said Red Bulls’ Sean Davis after their latest victory.

“That is the most important thing and [a] huge matchup next week and that is what we have to be prepared for now.”

Patryk Klimala: NYRB’s Potential Difference-Maker

Patryk Klimala has stepped up in some crucial moments.

He’s got eight goals and five assists to his name, he scored the game-winner last week against Inter Miami, and in the first Hudson River Derby of the season, he clinched an equalizer.

With four goals and an assist since last month, the Polish striker has been in decent form for the Red Bulls.

Thanks to his pace and aggression up top, he’ll be a handful for a NYCFC defense that won’t be at full strength.

How to Watch New York Red Bulls vs New York City FC