The New York Red Bulls (14-11-8, 50 pts.) host Charlotte FC (13-17-3, 42 pts.) for the final regular season match of the season on MLS Decision Day at Red Bull Arena on Sunday, October 9. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. ET with coverage on MSG, MSG GO, and New York Red Bulls Radio in English and Spanish via TuneIn, the New York Red Bulls app and NewYorkRedBulls.com.
Get to know the matchup in Keys to the Game, presented by Honda:
Nothing to Lose
Charlotte FC’s inaugural season will end on Sunday, as a 2-2 draw against Columbus on Wednesday eliminated them from playoff contention. Had Charlotte won that match, they would be coming to Red Bull Arena with the pressure of a must-win situation.
Now, though, they are coming into this match with nothing to play for and nothing to lose.
A team playing free of expectations will be a dangerous opponent for the Red Bulls, who need a win to guarantee a home playoff match.
Keep it Clean
The last home clean sheet for the Red Bulls came in the U.S. Open Cup in a 3-0 victory over NYCFC in June.
Shoring up the defense and keeping a Charlotte attack, who has scored seven goals in their last three matches, at bay will be one of the keys to ending the regular season on a high note.
Stay Home
A win would guarantee New York’s first home playoff match since 2018. A tie or loss could mean a trip to Miami for the first round of the MLS playoffs.
Securing a home game at Red Bull Arena would be a huge win for the club and the fanbase.
