Red Bulls backline slips up without Reyes in MLS Cup loss
12/08/2024 09:20 AM
The New York Red Bulls' dreams of lifting their first MLS Cup title came crashing down in Carson, California, following a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to the LA Galaxy. However, their challenge was dealt a significant blow before the opening whistle, as standout center-back Andres Reyes was ruled out due to illness just minutes before kickoff.
Reyes, a Colombian international, had been a cornerstone of the Red Bulls' playoff run, playing an integral role in their three clean sheets leading up to the final. His absence was a shock to the team, forcing head coach Sandro Schwarz to turn to 22-year-old Swedish defender Noah Eile to anchor the backline in his place.
"He's a dog," said John Tolkin about Reyes after the match. "These things happen; nobody is upset or anything about it. Andres can make a difference."
Reyes' impact throughout the playoffs was undeniable, highlighted by his game-winning goal against Orlando City in the Eastern Conference Final. His towering presence in the backline and ability to disrupt opposing attacks had been vital to New York's success being the underdog throughout the postseason.
Emil Forsberg shared his thoughts on the loss of his teammate: "Andres has been fantastic for us. This stuff happens in football; we have to move forward from it… I was sad for him, but we couldn't do more than encourage ourselves and go on the pitch."
Despite their best efforts, the Red Bulls struggled to adapt without Reyes. The Galaxy exploited the defensive gaps early, with Joseph Paintsil and Dejan Joveljić scoring within the first 15 minutes of the match. Eile, while a promising talent, faced a baptism of fire against the Galaxy's dynamic attack, and the Red Bulls could not recover.
Though the Red Bulls' season ended in heartbreak, there is already optimism for the future. Reports confirmed that former Bayern Munich striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting will join the squad ahead of the 2025 season, providing a boost to their attack.
Forsberg reflected on the loss and the lessons learned: "I think this year gave us a lot to work on. The final wasn't what we hoped for."
Tolkin offered a resolute message about the team’s future: "We will be back."
The Red Bulls may have fallen short of their ultimate goal, but their resilience and run to the final showcased a foundation to build upon. With reinforcements coming, the club will look to regroup and make another push for the elusive MLS Cup in 2025.
