UPDATE: New York City FC faces urgent challenges as they enter the MLS playoffs amid a troubling scoring drought. The team will clash with Charlotte FC in Game 1 of their best-of-three first-round series this Tuesday, October 3, 2023. With just four goals scored over their last four matches, NYCFC’s offensive struggles could hinder their playoff ambitions.
Star forwards Alonso Martínez and Hannes Wolf have been pivotal to NYCFC’s success this season, combining for 28 goals out of the team’s 56 goals during the regular season. However, both players have faced difficulties recently. Martínez, who has tallied 17 goals this year, hasn’t scored in his last three outings, while Wolf has not found the net since September 17.
Martínez downplayed concerns about the scoring slump, stating, “It’s just been the last few games that I haven’t been able to score. I think it’s been the schedule, the fact that I’ve been away with [Costa Rica’s] national team.” He emphasized his confidence, recalling a streak of scoring in five consecutive matches earlier in the season.
Head coach Pascal Jansen echoed Martínez’s sentiments, indicating that both forwards have historically scored in clusters, which may ease concerns about their current form. Jansen stressed the importance of scoring first in matches, stating, “The first goal mentality is something that is part of our strategy in general.” This mindset will be crucial as NYCFC aims to secure their first road win against Charlotte.
Complicating matters for the opponents, Charlotte FC will be without star player Wilfried Zaha, who is serving a one-game suspension for accumulating two yellow cards in the final match of the regular season.
Despite some lingering injury concerns regarding Wolf, who missed practice on Friday due to “physical issues,” he has traveled with the team to Charlotte and is expected to play. Fans are anxiously awaiting the match, as NYCFC looks to reverse their recent fortunes and capitalize on Charlotte’s absence of key players.
As the playoffs begin, all eyes will be on NYCFC to see if they can overcome their scoring obstacles and make a statement in their quest for the MLS Cup. The urgency of the playoffs amplifies the need for offensive firepower, and supporters are hopeful that Martínez and Wolf will regain their scoring touch just in time.
Stay tuned as we provide live updates and analysis throughout the playoffs, beginning with this critical showdown against Charlotte FC.