This Wednesday the New York Red Bulls host Atlanta United. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m ET.
Here are the Keys to the Game, presented by TriHonda Dealers:
Win & In
With a win over Atlanta on Wednesday night, the Red Bulls will confirm their place in the playoffs for the 12th consecutive year.
New York are currently 7-1-2 in their last ten matches.
Last Saturday, Fábio netted his sixth goal of the season in the 91st minute to give RBNY a massive 1-0 win.
“Yeah, you need an outstanding attitude to win games, and always a good tactical plan. But I think today was a good mix between the tactical plan and also about the X-factor in our team. In the end, we have a celebration, of course,” said Head Coach Gerhard Struber after the Montréal win. “I think we live every day with 120 pros, and for success in the end, when you realize that, then I think it's sometimes the moment for an emotional explosion, and today, yes, an explosion came over me and I felt I had to celebrate together with my boys in this moment.
“A good feeling, a good feeling right now for everyone, but we have to look forward. We have a very, very big challenge on Wednesday against Atlanta.”
In Last 10 Games, RBNY Have Best Defense in League
The Red Bulls are 7-1-2 in their last 10 matches and have only conceded four goals, which ranks first in MLS in that timespan.
Against Montréal, goalkeeper Carlos Coronel recorded his 12th shutout of the season and his eighth at Red Bull Arena. He currently ranks tied for second in MLS in shutouts.
After the match, Coronel praised the team’s collective for this moment they’re living.
“I am very happy in the individual sense, but it’s also collective in terms of the evolution with the defense. I am very happy as well with the performances we have had,” said Coronel. “I’m always working hard for the team. You know, it is very important for me to give it all for a team that has given me the opportunity to play the whole season. You know, to the presidents, the staff, the players, everyone who is involved in the club has been very important and has helped me achieve all of these achievements I have had this season.”
Atlanta Have Two Wins and Two Draws in last Four Games
In their last away game, Atlanta defeated Toronto FC 0-2.
They’re currently one point ahead of New York, so make no doubt that Wednesday’s match will have a playoff feel to it.
Josef Martínez currently leads the team in goals with 11 this season.
