New York City FC were defeated 2-1 by D.C. United at Yankee Stadium on Saturday. The match saw Justin Haak score the opening goal for New York City in the 19th minute, but Gabriel Pirani of D.C. United equalized just before halftime and later scored the winning goal in the second half.
The home team aimed to extend their five-game unbeaten streak, while D.C. United sought a win under new Head Coach René Weiler after two consecutive draws. Pascal Jansen, head coach of New York City FC, chose to maintain the same starting lineup that had recently secured a victory against FC Cincinnati.
In the early minutes, Hannes Wolf tested D.C. goalkeeper Luis Barraza with a strong shot, while Aaron Herrera created an opportunity for United that was saved by Matt Freese. New York City controlled possession in the opening stages and took the lead when Maxi Moralez assisted Justin Haak, who finished from outside the penalty area.
D.C. United had a chance to tie from a free kick around the 30-minute mark but failed to convert. Wolf nearly doubled City’s lead shortly before halftime; however, his effort was blocked by Lucas Bartlett. Shortly after this missed chance, Gabriel Pirani scored for D.C., bringing the game level at 1-1.
After halftime, João Peglow missed narrowly for United, and Nicolás Fernández Mercau forced another save from Barraza as New York City pressed forward. Despite holding much of the ball and creating several chances—including a blocked attempt by Andrés Perea—City could not regain their advantage.
Pirani scored his second goal in the 77th minute following an assist from Christian Benteke, putting D.C. United ahead 2-1. In response, Jansen made substitutions to try and change the outcome, bringing on AgustÃn Ojeda and Julián Fernández late in the match.
Aiden O’Neill came close to leveling with a deflected shot that required a quick save from Barraza in the closing minutes. Despite continued pressure until full time, New York City FC were unable to find another goal.
New York City’s next match is scheduled against Chicago Fire FC on Saturday, September 13 at 8:30PM ET.
