Three players who could impact the game
Cyle Larin
Cyle Larin is OCSC’s powerful target forward. He already has 12 goals this season and been linked to many top European clubs this year. In five games against NYCFC he has six goals and one assist. Larin will definitely cause problems for the already leaky NYCFC defense. Look for him to be a threat in this game and maybe score.
Jack Harrison
This season NYCFC has a revitalized attack. A big part of that revitalization is due to Jack Harrison, the number one pick in this years MLS Superdraft. Using his pace and excellent technical ability, he breaks down teams and either shoots or whips in balls to David Villa. Harrison will definitely be a headache for OCSC. Recently, teams have been double teaming him when he receives the ball. Also, more teams are aware of his abilities. If he can break that double team and beat the defenders, look for NYCFC’s entire offense to be different.
Maxime Chanot
When NYCFC is attacking
When OCSC is attacking
OCSC will try and play long balls and get Larin the ball. Also, they will use their pace on the wings to try and break down the NYCFC defense. Also, look for OCSC to try and get the ball to Kaka, so he can help orchestrate the offense.
Overall, NYCFC should come out on top. They are the better team, and do not have to play two games this week, like OCSC has to do. However, both of these teams are much better on offense then on defense. In order for OCSC to win they will have to play excellent defense, which they haven’t really been doing lately.