Saturday’s visitors are on a five-game unbeaten streak
Two confident teams will face off Saturday night at Stade Saputo (TICKETS – TVA Sports, 98.5, TSN 690): on one end, the Montreal Impact is currently tied for first in the Eastern Conference; on the other end, New York City FC has just one loss in 2019 and has won two of its last three games thanks to the success of its new striker, Héber. In rather surprising fashion, midfielder Maxi Moralez missed a penalty in both of these wins, against D.C. United and the Chicago Fire.
If the Impact and New York crossed swords less than a month ago in the Big Apple, the scenario is different this time. Head coach Domè Torrent has the team’s two most dangerous offensive elements at his disposal, while there are some injury concerns other than Nacho Piatti on the Impact’s end, notably Bacary Sagna, who remains a game-time decision. But it’s Montreal’s depth that’s allowed it to collect 17 points from the first 10 games until now. Here are three ways to get the most out of the next opponent.
- Solidity on the right side
The Citizens love breaking defensive lines from the left side. Normal, since that’s where you can find Moralez, and because Héber is right-footed. They can be unpredictable from that side of the pitch, opting for crosses as much as they attempt short passes to try and pierce into the box. If the Impact wins its duels on that side of the pitch, the visitors’ offense will be less menacing.
- Take advantage of mistakes
NYCFC’s defensive unit isn’t the stingiest, nor the most confident: as an example, we can take a look at Sean Johnson’s spectacular own goal in Minnesota or at Orlando City SC’s only goal last week. With Montreal’s pressing being what it is, we can expect dangerous turnovers that the hosts can take advantage of.
- Keep an eye on Héber
New York’s new Brazilian striker has completely revamped the team’s offense. Héber finds space, comes in support, makes runs down the middle and on the wings, and most importantly, finds the back of the net. Rémi Garde’s men will need to keep an intense eye on him to stop him from helping his team progress down the field, creating chances, and causing problems in the box.
