HARRISON – The New York Red Bulls will commence Leagues Cup action on Thursday night when they face off against Liga MX side, Chivas de Guadalajara. It will be the first time the two sides will battle each other since the 2018 CONCACAF Champions Cup when Chivas knocked Red Bull out of the semifinals.
Appearing in their third Leagues Cup, the Red Bulls are looking to make a statement in what has been a disappointing season so far. With Saturday’s loss to Chicago behind New York, the focus was immediately directed to the upcoming tournament. A big point of emphasis from Red Bulls manager Sandro Schwarz postmatch Saturday was utilizing Monday as a development day.
The Leagues Cup, while important to both Major League Soccer (MLS) and Liga MX, gives an opportunity for younger players to make their mark. Some argue Liga MX is a better league compared to MLS just because of how much stronger their clubs are tactically. This was seen early on Tuesday when CF Montreal was the only MLS club to win in the six matches that took place.
But for younger players like New York’s Julian Hall, he should see time on the pitch given the amount of games within the week. A great performance could entice other clubs’ interest in the youngster, which has circulated around him before.
Returning to the club aspect of things, Schwarz discussed the importance of the tournament with the press on Wednesday.
“I think now in our situation is more to have the focus day-by-day and to see tomorrow as a chance, as an opportunity for us to bring our performance, to bring that we have the confidence to bring back in our quality,” Schwarz said in his Leagues Cup press conference. “I think that’s the main part.”
Given who is in New York’s “set” as it is called, it won’t be easy for them. Besides FC Cincinnati and Charlotte FC, who New York won’t face, the Red Bulls will also play C.F. Monterrey and FC Juárez in phase one. But versus Guadalajara Thursday evening, New York needs to propel to a strong start, which is easier said than done.
What is likely going to occur Thursday as well is one of the more stranger home environments New York has faced all season. Guadalajara has a proud supporter base and the club is arguably one of the most popular clubs in Mexico. They have also been one of Liga MX most successful clubs with a history full of title winning squads.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see Sports Illustrated Stadium filled with passionate fans of the opposing side, similar to what occurred with Inter Miami. New York could also be facing slippery conditions with rain projected in the forecast for Thursday night. This will make it tougher for a Red Bulls side that has flourished at home this season with a 8-2-2 record in MLS play.
Guadalajara’s squad also includes names familiar to MLS fans including United States men national team member Cade Cowell, and former LA Galaxy member Javier “Chicharito” Hernández. Winger Roberto Alvarado is also a notable figure for Guadalajara given his terrific playmaking ability with the club and the Mexican national team.
However, New York has a chance given where they are in their season. The Red Bulls have had time to build chemistry and get into form, having played regular season matches since February. With Guadalajara starting the Apertura portion of their campaign on July 19, the rust is still coming off of them.
Still, New York understands how good the opposing side is and a win vs. one of Mexico’s best could rejuvenate their play mightily.
Kickoff for Thursday’s match is set for 7:30 p.m. on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+.
