Fresh off a 4-1 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes, the New York Red Bulls welcome Orlando City SC to Red Bull Arena. The Red Bulls head into the weekend with difficult squad choices because of international call-ups and injuries.

The Red Bulls sport a 1-0-1 record entering the match. Last week, they used a second half surge to overcome a slow start and a 1-0 deficit. Alex Muyl and Daniel Royer proved most productive in the match against the Earthquakes. Muyl scored a brace, leveling the match and producing the game winner. Daniel Royer assisted Muyl on both goals, and added one of his own in stoppage time.

OCSC are off to another poor start, continuing their results from last season. Despite earning a 2-2 draw on opening day against New York City FC, OCSC have struggled at both ends of the pitch and head to the Tri-State area for the second time this season. The Lions record betrays their skilled attacking players, including Sscha Kljestan, Dom Dwyer, and the recently acquired Nani.

The last time the teams met in Red Bull Arena, the Red Bulls walked away victorious, winning the supporters shield in the process. Derrick Ettiene Jr. scored the only goal in the match. Overall, the Red Bulls are 4-1-0 against OCSC at home.

Florian Valot suffered an ACL tear against the Earthquakes and will be out against OCSC. Brian White is listed as probably thanks to a hamstring injury. Tim Parker might also miss the match due to an ankle injury suffered against the Earthquakes.

Aaron Long, Kaku, Michael Murillo, and Kemar Lawrence miss the match as well due to international call-ups. That means the Red Bulls are down three starters on the backline and their best playmaker.

Filling in the gaps in the lineup are likely Vincent Bezecourt, Amro Tarek, Sean Nealis, Kyle Duncan, and Connor Lade. Also be on the lookout for more minutes for Mathias Jørgensen. The Danish striker has only a few minutes under his belt, but he has earned rave reviews from Red Bulls coaches and players.

Predicted lineup

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Robles, Duncan, Nealis, Tarek, Lade, Davis, Rzatkowski, Bezecourt, Royer, Muyl, Wright-Phillips

Photo by Bill Twomey Photography

Share this: Twitter

Facebook

Reddit

