NYCFC Prepares for Playoffs Amid Scoring Drought Concerns

UPDATE: New York City FC faces critical challenges as they enter the MLS Cup playoffs on October 3, 2023. The team will clash with Charlotte FC in Game 1 of their best-of-three series, but concerns are growing regarding their current scoring drought.

As the playoffs kick off, NYCFC’s hopes heavily rely on the performance of key players Alonso Martínez and Hannes Wolf, who together accounted for 28 of the team’s 56 goals this season. However, the duo has struggled recently, raising alarms among fans and analysts alike.

In their final four matches of the regular season, NYCFC managed to net only four goals, with three coming during a victory over the Red Bulls on September 27. Notably, Martínez, who leads the team with 17 goals, has not scored in the last three games, and Wolf has been absent from the score sheet since September 17.

“It’s just been the last few games that I haven’t been able to score,” Martínez said through an interpreter. “I think it’s been the schedule, the fact that I’ve been away with [Costa Rica’s] national team. But before that, I went on a streak of scoring in five matches. Not too worried about that, the goals will come.”

Despite his recent struggles, Martínez remained confident, downplaying his quad injury from late September. Coach Pascal Jansen echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that both players have historically scored in clusters throughout the season. “You always will have one or two top targets who make your goals in every team. Our team is no different,” Jansen stated.

With the playoffs looming, Jansen highlighted the team’s strategy of scoring first, which he believes will significantly influence game dynamics. “The first goal mentality is something that is part of our strategy in general,” he added.

NYCFC also aims to break a trend, seeking their first-ever win against Charlotte on the road. They will benefit from the absence of Charlotte star Wilfried Zaha, who is serving a one-game suspension after receiving two yellow cards in the last match of the season.

While there are lingering injury concerns regarding Wolf, who did not practice due to “physical issues,” a team spokesperson confirmed that he has traveled with NYCFC to Charlotte, fueling optimism among supporters.

As the clock ticks down to kickoff, NYCFC must overcome their scoring obstacles to advance in the playoffs. Fans are eager to see if Martínez and Wolf can break through their recent drought and lead the team to victory.