Skip to main content
Donate to the 95 years appeal
The Valley of Franchises: A New York derby in the MLS playoffs
JAMES NALTON writes how both NY teams have avoided each other in the much anticipated post-season competition that determines who will be champions - until now
[Peter Glaser / CC]

THIS weekend Major League Soccer will experience its first-ever New York derby in the playoffs as New York City FC and New York Red Bulls face off in an Eastern Conference semifinal.

Such a clash has been a possibility since New York City joined the league in 2015, but though the teams have met regularly in the league and in other competitions, they have avoided each other in the post-season competition that determines the MLS champions — until now.

The 95th Anniversary Appeal
Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
Similar stories
Democratic mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani takes selfies with supporters after speaking at his primary election party, June 25, 2025, in New York
Men’s football / 27 June 2025
27 June 2025

JAMES NALTON writes how at the heart of the big apple, the beautiful game exists as something more community-oriented, which could benefit hugely under mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani

A street vendor selling half-and-half scarves ahead of the W
Men’s Football / 13 December 2024
13 December 2024
JAMES NALTON previews this weekend’s much-anticipated Manchester derby
Los Angeles Galaxy's Marco Reus (left) celebrates with teamm
Men’s football / 6 December 2024
6 December 2024
JAMES NALTON previews the much-anticipated East Coast versus West Coast battle this weekend, the result of supporters holding their team to account