Goles y Resumen: Red Bulls vs. Crew - Playoffs MLS
The 2023 MLS Playoffs kicked off with a thrilling clash between the New York Red Bulls and the Columbus Crew, a rematch of their 2022 Eastern Conference Semifinals encounter. Here's a breakdown of the key moments and goals that defined this intense playoff battle:
First Half:
The match began with both teams displaying a high intensity and a desire to control possession. The Red Bulls, known for their relentless pressing, exerted early pressure, forcing the Crew into several turnovers. The first real scoring opportunity came in the 18th minute, when Lewis Morgan unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, but it was brilliantly saved by the Crew's goalkeeper, Eloy Room.
Columbus slowly settled into the game and began to pose a threat themselves. Cucho Hernandez, the Crew's star striker, proved a handful for the Red Bulls' defense with his pace and strength. In the 35th minute, he nearly put the Crew ahead with a well-struck volley, but the shot was deflected just wide of the post.
Second Half:
The second half saw the intensity ramp up even further. The Red Bulls, desperate for a goal, continued their relentless pressing, while the Crew remained dangerous on the counter-attack. The deadlock finally broke in the 62nd minute when Omir Fernandez received a brilliant through ball from Luquinhas and expertly finished past Room. The Red Bulls fans erupted in celebration as their team took the lead.
The goal sparked a wave of momentum for the Red Bulls, who continued to control the pace of the match. However, the Crew refused to give up and their perseverance was rewarded in the 81st minute. Derrick Etienne Jr. beautifully volleyed home a cross from Darlington Nagbe to level the score. The goal ignited the Columbus fans, who suddenly believed their team could pull off an upset.
Extra Time:
The match went into extra time, with both sides pushing for a winner. The Red Bulls, still visibly frustrated by the late equalizer, came out with renewed determination. Lewis Morgan nearly put his team back in the lead in the 105th minute with a fierce header, but Room made an incredible save to deny him.
As extra time wore on, fatigue began to set in for both teams. Neither side could find a decisive goal, sending the match into a penalty shootout.
Penalty Shootout:
The penalty shootout proved to be a nerve-wracking affair. Both sides converted their first two penalties, but the tension was palpable. The Red Bulls missed their third penalty, giving the Crew a crucial advantage. The Crew, however, failed to capitalize on their opportunity and missed their fourth penalty.
The Red Bulls held their nerve and converted their fourth penalty to secure a 4-3 victory in the shootout, sending them through to the next round of the playoffs.
Key Takeaways:
This match was a true testament to the unpredictable nature of playoff football. The Red Bulls, despite being the higher-ranked team, struggled to dominate the Crew, highlighting the importance of individual moments in knockout games. The Crew, on the other hand, showed great resilience and nearly pulled off an upset against their more favored opponents.
The Red Bulls' victory was ultimately secured by their ability to convert their penalties under pressure, a testament to their mental strength and composure.
This playoff clash between the Red Bulls and the Crew was an exciting spectacle that left fans on the edge of their seats. The Red Bulls will be looking to continue their momentum in the next round, while the Crew will be disappointed to see their season come to an end.