Red Bulls' inability to execute attacking strategies jeopardizes their chances of participating in the 2025 playoffs.
The New York Red Bulls Draw with Columbus Crew Amidst Offside Controversy and Scoring Woes
The New York Red Bulls and Columbus Crew played out a goalless draw on Saturday night at Sports Illustrated Stadium, a result that leaves the Red Bulls fighting for their playoff lives.
The Red Bulls' lack of polish up front, which could have been addressed by one more big signing, remains a glaring issue. The team attempted 8 shots compared to Columbus's 3, and had 4 on target compared to Columbus's 1, but failed to find the back of the net.
The problem for the Red Bulls is that the Fire has two games in hand. The Fire, who are currently below the Red Bulls in the Eastern Conference standings, have an opportunity to overtake the Red Bulls and secure the ninth and final playoff spot.
The Red Bulls have not won a championship in their 30-year history, and their current drought is evident in their recent form. The team has scored a single goal across their last three matches.
One of the key moments in the game came when Emil Forsberg's goal was disallowed due to an offside call. The linesman raised the offside flag two minutes before halftime, and despite Choupo-Moting being offside, the play continued. Choupo-Moting deked Crew goalkeeper Patrick Schulte and had a left-footed shot deflected off the post by a defender.
Fans at Sports Illustrated Arena were not happy with the offside call, and hung a banner reading, "Poor management breeds complacency." The Red Bulls' manager, Gerhard Struber, is focused on the remaining five games of the season, and may be looking to make some moves in the transfer market.
Sandro Schwarz signed Rafael Mosquera as an offensive player for the Red Bulls during the last transfer period, even though the transfer window closed on August 21, 2022. Mosquera moved permanently from Plaza Amador and had been on loan from the Panamanian club before.
The Red Bulls have just 5 games left in the regular season, and are currently ahead of the Chicago Fire for the East's ninth and final playoff spot by a single point. The team will need to find a way to break their scoring drought and secure the points they need to make the playoffs.
Despite the challenges, the Red Bulls are fighting for their goals, and will look to finish the season strong and bring home their first championship.
Read also:
- Lu Shiow-yen's Challenging Position as Chair of the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) Under Scrutiny in Donovan's Analysis
- Tough choices on August 13, 2025 for those born under Aquarius? Consider the advantages and disadvantages to gain guidance
- Microbiome's Impact on Emotional States, Judgement, and Mental Health Conditions
- Restaurant staff allegedly requires Minnesota teenager to validate her gender for bathroom access.
