NYCFC vs St. Louis City SC preview: Chasing a response in the upcoming clash | OneFootball

New York City FC is currently second in the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 3-1-1 after losing narrowly to Inter Miami CF. The Pigeons will look to refocus and bounce back to come away with the three points when they face St. Louis City SC. This will be the second time the sides meet in Major League Soccer.

During their last meeting in 2024, NYCFC fell to St. Louis City 2-0. In that game, St. Louis had more shot attempts and shots on goal, although the Boys in Blue possessed more of the ball. This time around, especially after the Miami loss, the Queens side definitely will not want to lose. Moreover, the visitors are in 13th place in the Western Conference, making them a team the home side should beat on paper.

However, St. Louis recently had their best performance so far this season against the New England Revolution. The win occurred due to the flexibility to shift to three defensive backs from five defensive backs for that match. Given the result of the win against New England, this formation definitely works for the type of players that St. Louis City has and could make life difficult for NYCFC.

This will be an interesting clash between two different teams. Judging by the excellent form that Boys in Blue have been in despite the loss against Inter Miami, this will be a matchup where three points are vital. So, here is a preview of the fixture between NYCFC and St. Louis City.

NYCFC vs St. Louis City preview

Date

NYCFC and St. Louis City will play one another on Saturday, April 4.

Time

The game will begin at 7:30 PM ET.

Location

The match will take place at Citi Field in Flushing, Queens, New York

How to watch

Supporters can catch the fixture on Apple TV.

Weather

At the start of the match, it will be 51 degrees, but it will feel like 55. The winds will be around 17 mph, and the humidity will hover at around 67%. Hence, it will not be the greatest game, but the expected rain should hopefully not start until a few hours after the final whistle.

Injury report

Drew Baiera (leg), Malachi Jones (leg), Alonso Martínez (leg), Max Murray (leg), and Andrés Perea (leg) will not be able to play against St. Louis.

Players to watch

Nicolás Fernández Mercau is the player to watch for NYCFC. He is leading the club currently in the young season, netting five goals in five matches. His offensive form, especially against the struggling Missouri team, will be vital if the home team wants to rebound and secure their fourth win of the season.

Fans should also watch Marcel Hartel of St. Louis. The midfielder has scored two goals this season, including in his team's win from the last game. His nine goals from last year means he can be threatening on goal. He is also fantastic with his crosses and set pieces, making him a threat as a provider.