Harrison, New Jersey – The early stages of the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season have delivered compelling action, with the New York Red Bulls II and NYCFC II already deeply involved in a fierce rivalry. Recent contests have showcased both teams’ determination, culminating in a tightly contested New York Derby and further matches that highlight the growing competitiveness of the league. This report details the recent encounters, focusing on the intensity and key moments of these matches.
The first New York Derby of the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season took place on Sunday, March 15th, at Belson Stadium, where NYCFC II hosted the New York Red Bulls II. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, forcing a penalty shootout to determine the victor. NYCFC II ultimately prevailed, winning the shootout 5-4, securing two points while Red Bull New York II earned one. This initial clash set the tone for what promises to be a captivating season-long battle between the two New York-based teams. The New York Red Bulls official website confirmed the date and location of the derby.
Match Recap: NYCFC II vs. Red Bull New York II
NYCFC II opened the scoring in the 5th minute with a goal from midfielder Maximo Carrizo. However, Red Bull New York II responded, leveling the score at 1-1. The game remained tied through regulation time, leading to the dramatic penalty shootout. The shootout saw a series of successful conversions and saves, ultimately ending with a 5-4 victory for NYCFC II. The match provided a glimpse into the talent emerging from both clubs’ development systems. FotMob provided detailed coverage of the match, including the penalty shootout sequence.
The penalty shootout unfolded as follows: Igor Bych for NYCFC II scored, followed by Mijahir Jiménez for Red Bull New York II. Seymour Reid then converted for NYCFC II, and Rafael Mosquera responded for Red Bull New York II. Camilo Ponce scored for NYCFC II, while Dennis Nelich likewise found the back of the net for Red Bull New York II. Máximo Carrizo then scored for NYCFC II, and Nate Worth converted for Red Bull New York II. Finally, Nico Cavallo secured the win for NYCFC II with a successful penalty, while Paul Sokoloff’s attempt was saved.
Statistical Overview
NYCFC II demonstrated a slight edge in possession, controlling 55% of the ball compared to Red Bull New York II’s 45%. The match saw a total of 16 shots, with NYCFC II registering 12 and Red Bull New York II managing 4. However, the number of shots on target was more balanced, with NYCFC II having 5 and Red Bull New York II with 2. Both teams struggled to create significant scoring opportunities, with neither registering any “substantial chances” according to FotMob’s data.
New York City FC II vs Red Bull New York II (2026-03-15T20:15:00.000Z)FollowmatchesMLS Next Pro Round 3FollowMLS Next Pro Round 3Belson StadiumIgor BychReid5’Mosquera21′
— FotMob (@FotMob) March 15, 2026
Team Lineups and Substitutions
NYCFC II Starting XI: Romero, Baiera, Murray, Acito, Cavallo, Pierre, Carrizo, Shore, Musu, Reid, Flax.
Substitutions for NYCFC II: Mitchell (62’), Londoño (74’), Gjengaar (74’), Valencia (78’), Sokoloff (82’), Sunjic (78’).
Red Bull New York II Starting XI: Pilkington, Wohlert, Ponce, Molinari, Sunjic, Nelich, Jiménez, Mitchell, Rosborough, Londoño, Mina.
Substitutions for Red Bull New York II: Sánchez (46’), Rosborough (74’), Londoño (75’), Gjengaar (78’), Molinari (78’), Sunjic (78’), Acito (84’).
Earlier Season Performance: NYCFC II vs. Columbus Crew 2
Prior to the New York Derby, NYCFC II faced Columbus Crew 2 in their season opener. That match also ended in a 0-0 draw, but Columbus Crew 2 won the subsequent penalty shootout 5-4. This early-season pattern of close contests and penalty shootouts suggests a highly competitive MLS NEXT Pro landscape. The official NYCFC II website reported on the match against Columbus Crew 2.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season is proving to be highly competitive, with several matches decided by narrow margins or penalty shootouts.
- The New York Derby between NYCFC II and Red Bull New York II is already establishing itself as a key fixture in the league.
- Both NYCFC II and Red Bull New York II are showcasing promising talent from their respective development academies.
- NYCFC II has demonstrated resilience in securing points in both of their opening matches, despite not winning in regulation time.
Looking ahead, both NYCFC II and Red Bull New York II will continue their MLS NEXT Pro campaigns, with upcoming fixtures promising further exciting action. Fans can expect continued intensity and tactical battles as these teams strive to establish themselves as contenders in the league. The next scheduled match for NYCFC II is yet to be announced, but information will be available on the official NYCFC website. Red Bull New York II’s schedule can be found on the New York Red Bulls official website.
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