Get to know the matchup in Keys to the Game, presented by Honda:
Atlantic Angst
Since the two clubs first match against each other in 1996, there have been 104 total matches between the Atlantic rivals across all competitions.
This is a rivalry that dates back to the founding of the league, and is one with many moments that mattered throughout the years. New York has taken home the Atlantic Cup in five of the last six seasons, and will look to make it six of seven starting on Sunday.
D.C. will be the first match in an 11-match sprint to the playoffs for the Red Bulls. With it being a rivalry match, there shouldn’t be any issues getting up for the match.
Back from Summer Break
Both D.C. United and New York have had extended breaks due to their exits in the Leagues Cup competition. Both teams lost in penalties at the hands of the Philadelphia Union, with the Red Bulls making it one round further than D.C.
Wayne Rooney and his squad will have had a 17 day break in between matches, while the Red Bulls will be coming into Sunday’s match on a 12-day hiatus.
Will D.C. and New York come into Sunday’s clash well-rested and fresh or rusty from the time off?
The Time is Now
Including two matches against D.C. United, the New York Red Bulls have 11 matches to keep their historic playoff streak alive.
Currently sitting below the playoff line in 11th place, the Red Bulls are currently chasing D.C., who currently own the last playoff spot and are four points ahead of New York.
Three points against their Atlantic Cup rivals will go a long way to moving up the table and securing a spot in the postseason.
