New England Revolution Falls Short in Leagues Cup Knockout Round Against New York City FC

The New England Revolution's Leagues Cup 2024 campaign came to a dramatic end on a rainy Friday night at Gillette Stadium, as they battled New York City FC to a 1-1 draw before falling in a tense 7-6 penalty shootout in the Round of 32. Forward Bobby Wood continued his scoring streak, netting his second goal in as many games, while Brandon Bye made his mark with his first assist of the season. Despite the valiant effort, the Revolution's run in the tournament was cut short.

The match unfolded under challenging weather conditions, with rain pouring down in Foxborough. New York City FC struck first in the 35th minute, capitalizing on a penalty kick awarded after a video review. Santiago Rodriguez stepped up to convert the spot kick, recording his second goal of the tournament. However, the Revolution responded swiftly, with Wood equalizing just five minutes later. The Hawaiian forward connected with a superb cross from Bye, heading the ball into the net to level the score. This marked Wood's second goal of the Leagues Cup, while Bye's assist was a welcome return after his recovery from last year's injury.

Wood nearly doubled his tally before halftime when he received a precise low cross from Peyton Miller inside the 18-yard box, only for his shot to narrowly miss the right post. Earlier in the match, Wood had another goal disallowed due to an offside call, adding to the tension of the night.

Defender Xavier Arreaga was a standout in the Revolution's backline, completing an impressive 96.2 percent of his passes, the highest in the game. In goal, Aljaž Ivačič delivered a solid performance, recording five saves, including a crucial tip over the bar on a powerful shot by New York City's Santiago Rodriguez.

The match also featured a unique family reunion on the pitch, as Revolution defender Will Sands faced off against his twin brother, James Sands, who plays for New York City FC. Will's appearance in the 79th minute was his second for the club in as many games. Additionally, local talent Malcolm Fry made his third appearance for the Revolution's first team as a second-half substitute.

With the Leagues Cup now behind them, the Revolution will shift their focus back to the MLS regular season. Their next match is scheduled for Saturday, August 24, against CF Montreal at Stade Saputo. Fans can catch the action live on MLS Season Pass via the Apple TV app, with additional radio coverage provided on 98.5 The Sports Hub and 1260 AM Nossa Radio USA.

Match Highlights:

• The Revolution's Leagues Cup journey ends with a 1-1 draw and a 7-6 penalty shootout loss to New York City FC.
• Bobby Wood scored his second goal of the tournament, heading in a cross from Brandon Bye.
• Brandon Bye recorded his first assist of 2024, marking his return from injury.
• Aljaž Ivačič made five crucial saves in the match, including a key stop on Santiago Rodriguez.
• Xavier Arreaga excelled in defense, completing 96.2 percent of his passes.
• Will Sands played against his twin brother, James Sands, marking a rare sibling rivalry on the field.
• Malcolm Fry, a Groton, Mass. native, made his third appearance for the Revolution's first team.

As the Revolution look ahead to their next MLS fixture, they will aim to build on the momentum from their recent performances, even as their Leagues Cup run comes to a close.