New York City FC vs New York Red Bulls: A Rivalry for the Ages

If you are a fan of soccer in the Big Apple, you probably have a strong opinion about the two teams that represent the city: New York City FC and New York Red Bulls. These two clubs have been fierce rivals since NYCFC joined the MLS in 2015, and their matches are always intense and exciting. But how did this rivalry start, and what makes it so special? Here are some facts and highlights about the history and the future of the Hudson River Derby.

• The first match between NYCFC and Red Bulls took place on May 10, 2015, at Red Bull Arena in New Jersey. The Red Bulls won 2-1, with goals from Bradley Wright-Phillips and Mike Grella. David Villa scored the first goal for NYCFC in the derby.
• The Red Bulls dominated the first season of the rivalry, winning all three matches against NYCFC by a combined score of 11-2. The most memorable game was the 7-0 thrashing at Yankee Stadium on May 21, 2016, which is the largest margin of victory in MLS history.
• NYCFC got their revenge in the second season, winning two out of three matches against the Red Bulls, including a 2-0 victory at Red Bull Arena on July 3, 2016. It was their first win in the derby, and also their first win at their rival’s home ground.
• The rivalry has been more balanced since then, with each team winning four matches and drawing two in the last four seasons. The most recent match was a 1-1 draw at Yankee Stadium on August 21, 2021, with goals from Valentin Castellanos and Patryk Klimala.
• The rivalry is not only about bragging rights, but also about playoff implications. Both teams have qualified for the postseason in five out of six seasons since NYCFC joined the league, and they have faced each other twice in the knockout rounds. The Red Bulls won both times, in 2016 and 2018, advancing to the conference finals.
• The rivalry is also fueled by the different identities and cultures of the two teams. NYCFC is owned by City Football Group, which also owns Manchester City and other clubs around the world. They play at Yankee Stadium, one of the most iconic venues in sports. They have attracted big-name players like David Villa, Andrea Pirlo, and Frank Lampard. Red Bulls is owned by Red Bull GmbH, which also owns clubs in Austria, Germany, and Brazil. They play at Red Bull Arena, a soccer-specific stadium that is considered one of the best in North America. They have developed homegrown players like Tyler Adams, Aaron Long, and Sean Davis.
• The rivalry is also influenced by the fans, who create a passionate and colorful atmosphere at every match. Both teams have dedicated supporters groups that chant, sing, and display banners and flags throughout the game. Some of the most notable groups are The Third Rail and The Bronx Ultras for NYCFC, and the Empire Supporters Club and Viking Army for Red Bulls. The fans also engage in friendly banter and trash talk on social media and in person.
• The rivalry is set to continue in the next season, with both teams looking to improve their performances and challenge for trophies. NYCFC finished fourth in the Eastern Conference in 2021, but lost to New England Revolution in the first round of the playoffs. Red Bulls finished seventh in the East, but were eliminated by Philadelphia Union in the play-in round. Both teams have made some changes in their rosters and coaching staffs, hoping to find the right formula for success.

The Hudson River Derby is one of the most exciting and entertaining rivalries in MLS, and it shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you are a fan of NYCFC or Red Bulls, or just a neutral observer, you can expect to see some high-quality soccer and some heated emotions when these two teams face each other. It is a rivalry for the ages, and one that you don’t want to miss.