Introduction to the Hudson River Derby
The Hudson River Derby is one of the most intense and highly anticipated matchups in Major League Soccer (MLS), pitting the New York Red Bulls against New York City FC (NYCFC). The latest installment of this rivalry took place on September 27, 2025, at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey.
The Match
Thiago Martins’ 65th-minute conversion lifted NYCFC to a 3-2 victory over the New York Red Bulls on Saturday night. The result momentarily moved NYCFC into third place in the Eastern Conference ahead of Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami. However, Messi and Co. still have two games in hand due to Club World Cup duties in July.
Impact on the Playoff Picture
Bolstering their standing in the playoff picture is but a consolation to the main prize, as they have relegated the Red Bulls to the very present danger of missing the MLS playoffs for the first time in 16 years. With the loss, Sandro Schwarz’s men have two games left to play this season and remain tantalizingly close behind the Chicago Fire, which holds the final Eastern Conference playoff berth in ninth. But it has a game in hand and led the Columbus Crew at the final whistle in New Jersey, potentially increasing its advantage to five points over the Red Bulls (43 points).
Key Moments in the Game
Seventeen-year-old Julian Hall’s first MLS goal of the season in the 23rd minute canceled out NYCFC’s immediate opener in the second minute through Nicolas Fernandez, only for Andres Perea’s remarkable header to restore the Pigeons’ lead just three minutes later.
Sep 27, 2025; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; New York City FC forward Nicolas Fernandez (7) celebrates his goal with teammates during the first half against the New York Red Bulls at Sports Illustrated Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Much like NYCFC’s quick snatch in the first half, the Red Bulls replicated it in the second through Forsberg. Goalkeeper Matt Freese’s turnover allowed Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, who assisted both Red Bulls goals on Saturday night, to go down the right wing with acres of space. His cut-back pass at the top of the box was cannoned home by the right foot of the Red Bulls’ captain two minutes into the second stanza.
Red Bulls’ Desperation
Red Bulls’ desperation, however, was not nearly enough, as they were outmatched for the majority of the final 30 minutes by NYCFC — save for the final frantic moments — who had the lion’s share of the final chances. Fernandez put the Pigeons up inside two minutes, on the visitors’ very first chance of the night. A cut-back ball from Justin Haak at the top of the box played the Argentinian in, and he finished with his left foot just inside Carlos Coronel’s right post.
Conclusion
The victory for NYCFC not only solidifies their position in the Eastern Conference but also significantly diminishes the Red Bulls’ chances of making the playoffs. With only two games left in the season, the Red Bulls face an uphill battle to secure a spot in the postseason. The Hudson River Derby has once again lived up to its reputation as a thrilling and decisive matchup in the world of MLS.
FAQs
- Q: What was the final score of the Hudson River Derby?
A: NYCFC won 3-2 against the New York Red Bulls. - Q: Who scored the winning goal for NYCFC?
A: Thiago Martins scored the winning goal in the 65th minute. - Q: What are the implications of this loss for the Red Bulls?
A: The loss significantly reduces the Red Bulls’ chances of making the playoffs, with only two games left in the season. - Q: How many games in hand does Inter Miami have over NYCFC?
A: Inter Miami has two games in hand due to Club World Cup duties in July. - Q: Where can I find more information about the Red Bulls and NYCFC?
A: For more on the Red Bulls and NYCFC, visit AMNY.com.
