New york derby 2022

Introduction to the fierce hudson river derby in 2022

The New York Derby, officially known as the Hudson River Derby, represents one of Major League Soccer's most passionate and geographically close rivalries. In 2022, this annual clash between New York City FC (NYCFC) and the New York Red Bulls delivered on all fronts: intense competition, memorable moments, and significant implications for both clubs' seasons. For fans and neutrals alike, the new york derby 2022 was a focal point of the MLS calendar, showcasing the unique energy of soccer in the metropolitan area. This article delves into the specifics of these highly anticipated encounters, exploring everything from tactical approaches to fan involvement and the ultimate impact on the league standings.

Since its inception in 2015, the derby has quickly grown into a must-watch event, pitting the established Red Bulls against the relatively newer NYCFC. The stakes are always high, not just for points but for bragging rights across the Hudson. The 2022 season saw both teams vying for top positions in the Eastern Conference, adding an extra layer of competitive fire to each fixture. Understanding the history and context of this rivalry is crucial to appreciating the gravity of every tackle, pass, and goal during the new york derby 2022 matches.

The 2022 fixtures: a trio of thrilling encounters

The new york derby 2022 featured three significant clashes across different competitions, each contributing to the narrative of an evenly matched and fiercely contested rivalry. These matches were not just about league points; they included a crucial US Open Cup tie that added another dimension to the bragging rights. The results underscored the unpredictable nature of derby games, where form often goes out the window in favor of raw determination.

• June 22, 2022: US Open Cup Round of 16 - New York Red Bulls 1-0 New York City FC (Red Bull Arena)

  The first encounter of the year was a knockout match in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. Played at Red Bull Arena, this game set an early tone for the derby's intensity. Lewis Morgan's 52nd-minute goal secured a crucial victory for the Red Bulls, sending them into the quarterfinals and eliminating their rivals from the competition. The atmosphere was electric, with both sets of fans generating an incredible noise. This early victory gave the Red Bulls an initial psychological edge in the new york derby 2022.

• July 17, 2022: MLS Regular Season - New York Red Bulls 1-0 New York City FC (Red Bull Arena)

  Just weeks after their Open Cup meeting, the teams faced off again in an MLS league fixture, once more at Red Bull Arena. In a remarkably similar outcome, the Red Bulls again triumphed 1-0, with a goal from Lewis Morgan in the 43rd minute. This marked back-to-back derby wins for NYRB, further solidifying their position and putting pressure on NYCFC. The consistency of the Red Bulls' performance in these home derbies highlighted their tactical discipline and effective high-press strategy. This second result for the new york derby 2022 continued the Red Bulls' dominance at home against their rivals.

• September 17, 2022: MLS Regular Season - New York City FC 2-0 New York Red Bulls (Citi Field)

  The final league meeting of the new york derby 2022 saw NYCFC finally get their revenge, securing a dominant 2-0 victory at their temporary home, Citi Field. Goals from Gabriel Pereira in the 23rd minute and Alexandru Mitriță in the 63rd minute ensured the Bronx Blues ended the derby series with a win. This result was vital for NYCFC, not only for regaining some pride but also for their push towards the MLS playoffs. It demonstrated their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, proving that the rivalry was still very much a two-way street.

Key player performances and tactical showdowns

Individual brilliance and strategic masterclasses defined the new york derby 2022. For the New York Red Bulls, Scottish winger Lewis Morgan was undeniably the standout performer, scoring both winning goals in their two home victories. His pace, directness, and clinical finishing proved to be a consistent threat against NYCFC's defense. Goalkeeper Carlos Coronel also played a pivotal role, making crucial saves to maintain clean sheets in both Red Bull Arena fixtures, underpinning the team's defensive solidity.

On the New York City FC side, while they struggled to find the net in the first two derbies, players like Maxi Moralez in midfield continued to orchestrate play, despite the lack of end product initially. In their decisive 2-0 win, Gabriel Pereira stepped up with a vital opening goal, showcasing his attacking prowess, while Alexandru Mitriță provided the insurance goal. Talles Magno, a constant attacking threat, also contributed significantly to NYCFC's offensive efforts throughout the season. The tactical battle between NYRB's high-pressing, vertical style under Gerhard Struber and NYCFC's possession-based, intricate passing game under Nick Cushing was a fascinating chess match. The Red Bulls' ability to disrupt NYCFC's build-up play was evident in their victories, while NYCFC's eventual adaptation and ability to exploit spaces proved crucial in their home win during the new york derby 2022 series.

Fan culture and the electric atmosphere of the derby

The new york derby 2022 is as much about the fans as it is about the players on the field. The atmosphere generated by both sets of supporters is legendary, transforming stadiums into cauldrons of noise, color, and passion. Red Bulls' supporters, known as the Empire Supporters Club and Viking Army, are famed for their continuous chanting and large tifos at Red Bull Arena. Across the Hudson, NYCFC's loyal fanbase, including groups like The Third Rail and Los Templados, bring their vibrant energy to Yankee Stadium and Citi Field, often showcasing impressive smoke displays and elaborate banners.

The rivalry extends beyond the 90 minutes of play, with pre-match rituals, social media banter, and post-game celebrations (or commiserations) forming a crucial part of the derby experience. Traveling supporters often make the journey across the Hudson, creating dedicated sections that contribute to the cacophony. The visible rivalry, with its unique chants, banners, and the sheer volume of noise, elevates the new york derby 2022 from a regular league match to a true spectacle of American soccer culture. It's a testament to the growth of MLS that such a vibrant and entrenched rivalry can exist in one of the world's largest sporting markets.

Impact on mls standings and the broader rivalry narrative

The results of the new york derby 2022 had tangible effects on the Eastern Conference standings and the psychological dynamic between the two clubs. The Red Bulls' two victories, particularly their US Open Cup win, provided a significant boost in morale and demonstrated their prowess in knockout situations. These results contributed to a strong season for NYRB, who finished 4th in the Eastern Conference, securing a home playoff game.

Conversely, NYCFC's struggle in the initial derby matches, especially after their MLS Cup win in 2021, highlighted areas for improvement. Their eventual 2-0 victory at Citi Field was crucial for their own playoff push and helped them finish 3rd in the Eastern Conference, just above their rivals. While both teams ultimately qualified for the MLS Cup Playoffs, the derby results offered a microcosm of their respective seasons. The Red Bulls showcased defensive resilience and clinical counter-attacking, while NYCFC demonstrated their ability to bounce back and assert dominance when it mattered. The new york derby 2022 fixtures added another compelling chapter to the ongoing Hudson River Derby saga, reinforcing its status as one of MLS's premier rivalries, constantly shifting the balance of power and bragging rights between the two New York-area clubs.