It was not the way that New York City FC had hoped to start the 2023 season, but in the very first match of the year the team fell by a score of 2-0.
The starters playing in a 4-2-3-1 formation, had Luis Barraza starting in the cage, while new member Braian Cufre earning his first start. In the milestone moment for New York City FC, Keaton Parks had his 100th league game for New York City FC.
Nashville SC was able to see goals from Walker Zimmerman and Jacob Shaffelburg to help lift them to victory. The rest of the action saw some competitive soccer all around.
With a rocking crowd in attendance, it was Nashville who was able to maintain the possession of the ball early on in the match. The first opportunity for the boys in blue came when Talles Magno blasted an opportunity that went high of the cage.
Things went back and forth, as Nashville had several shots and one that was saved by Barraza. The hosts continued to apply pressure but were not able to find a scoring opportunity.
1495 Sports is proud to bring the following New York City FC Post Match Press Conference Video. This is after the team’s 2-0 loss against Nashville. Featured in the video are thoughts from Head Coach Nick Cushing and Luis Barraza. Video compliments of New York City FC:
Matias Pellegrini had himself a great opportunity for New York city FC, having one that went over the bar, while Magno later on had a shot that just went wide.
Making a call to his bench Coach Cushing made a switch putting in Thiago Andrade into the match, and that gave New York City FC a fresh pair of legs to energize the team.
Andrade had himself some wonderful opportunities, as at one point in the match he was able to get a snapshot well but smashed a ball off-target.
Earning his first minutes for NYCFC was Mtija Ilenič, and he will be one to watch as the 2023 Season progresses.
Even though there was some great soccer the goals by Zimmerman and Shaffelburg stood tall, and Nashville was able to earn a victory.
New York City FC will continue to be on the road, as they will now head to Chicago to take on the Chicago Fire Football Club on March 4 at 8:30 p.m. That match will be played at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois.
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