The Hudson derby is back: what to expect from the New York Red Bulls vs New York City FC match on May 17, 2026
Red Bull New York
New York City FC
Some matches simply don’t need extra hype. The New York derby is one of those rare fixtures. In the early hours of May 17 European time, Red Bull Arena will once again transform into more than just a football pitch—it’ll be the stage for a true city showdown. The New York Red Bulls host New York City FC in MLS Round 14, and it’s already shaping up to be one of the hottest spring showdowns in the East.
In recent years, this rivalry has only intensified. Where once the Red Bulls were seen as the “big brother” of New York soccer, NYCFC now regularly reminds everyone who’s been dominating these derbies. In their last five meetings, the "Cityzens" have claimed four victories—including a convincing 3-1 win in this year’s April cup tie. But the story could be very different this time around.
Have the Red Bulls finally woken up?
The New Jersey side had a shaky start to the season. Their defense was leaky in almost every game—30 goals conceded in 13 matches says it all.
But right before the derby, the Bulls turned in two impressive results: first, an away win over Chicago Fire, then a real thriller against Columbus Crew—winning 3-2.
The main man right now? Eighteen-year-old Julian Hall. The youngster just bagged a historic hat-trick against Columbus, becoming the youngest hat-trick scorer in MLS history. He’s no longer just a “talented academy product”—he’s the player carrying the Red Bulls’ attack here and now.
And let’s not forget the experienced Emil Forsberg, still pulling the strings in midfield. When the Swede is in form, the Red Bulls look like a completely different side.
NYCFC: crisis over, or just a brief respite?
Pascale Jansen’s team has been on a rollercoaster this season. There have been winless streaks, issues with finishing, and injuries. The situation with Talles Magno and Aidan O’Neill was especially worrying—both have struggled with fitness in recent weeks.
But heading into the derby, NYCFC has found new life as well.
First, a confident 3-0 win over Columbus Crew, then a crucial 1-0 away victory against Charlotte.
A big plus: goalkeeper Matt Freese looks set to play after a minor knock last round.
NYCFC’s structure is crystal clear right now:
Maxi Moralez is still the brain of the team;
Alonso Martinez injects pace up front;
and their defense looks far more stable than their neighbors’.
That could be a decisive factor.
Why this derby is especially intriguing right now:
Both teams enter the match with identical point totals—18 from 13 games.
This isn’t just a battle for city bragging rights; it’s a head-to-head clash between direct playoff rivals in the Eastern Conference.
Plus, both sides have hit a run of form. That always makes a derby more dangerous: no one wants to lose momentum now.
And the atmosphere deserves its own mention. Matches at Red Bull Arena are never “just another game.” Expect hard tackles, high emotions, constant pressure from the stands—sometimes it feels less like MLS and more like a South American clásico.
What to watch for on the pitch:
1. Julian Hall vs the NYCFC defense.
After his hat-trick, the entire league will be watching the young Red Bulls striker. The question is—can he handle the pressure of a big derby?
2. NYCFC’s ball control.
Jansen’s team prefers structured, possession-based football, while the Red Bulls often play vertically and with aggression.
3. The hosts’ defense.
This is still a weak spot for the Red Bulls. They’ve conceded in nearly every game.
Probable lineups:
- New York Red Bulls: Horvath, Marshall-Rutty, Parker, Nealis, D. Santos, Donkor, Mehmeti, Forsberg, Cowell, Hall, Ruvalcaba.
- New York City FC: Freese, Cavallo, Raul Gustavo, Martins, Gray, Trewin, Moralez, Parks, Ojeda, Mercau, Wolf.
Prediction:
On paper, this looks like a perfectly balanced encounter. The Red Bulls are riding an emotional high, but NYCFC appear to be the more balanced outfit.
Expect a tense match with chances for both sides and inevitable late drama.
My prediction: Both teams to score – Yes.
