Red Bulls one win away from 1st MLS Cup (updated)

Matthew Fazelpoor//December 2, 2024//

The New York Red Bulls were crowned Eastern Conference Champions following the team's 1-0 win Nov. 30, 2024, against Orlando City SC. - PROVIDED BY RED BULLS

Matthew Fazelpoor//December 2, 2024//

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The New York Red Bulls’ magical playoff run continues.

Following its Eastern Conference Final 1-0 win Nov. 30 against Orlando City SC, the Harrison-based club heads out to California to meet the LA Galaxy in the MLS Cup. The game kicks off at 4 p.m. Dec. 7 at Dignity Health Sports Park.

The Red Bulls once again rode an inspired defensive effort Saturday night to victory – with goalkeeper Carlos Coronel notching huge saves in keeping a clean sheet. Andres Reyes scored the game-winning goal, heading in a beautiful service from Chatham native John Tolkin.

“For me, and just the guys who grew up in the area, dream come true,” said Tolkin after the match. “This is an incredible moment. This is kind of why we do it. You know, all the stuff we’ve dealt with through the year, the ups and downs. We have one more to go – but the guys will enjoy tonight, for sure.”

History-making

This remarkable playoff run makes the Red Bulls just the second team in MLS history to win three road games in a single post season. The team is also the lowest seed ever to reach MLS Cup. Meanwhile, Coach Sandro Schwarz is the 12th coach in MLS history to lead a club to the championship in their first season.

🔴 THE EAST IS RED 🔴 pic.twitter.com/0SdCiQdO7D
— New York Red Bulls (@NewYorkRedBulls) December 1, 2024

It will mark the second time the Red Bulls play in MLS Cup, with the last coming in 2008. It also marks a pivotal moment and golden opportunity for the Harrison-based club, a founding Major League Soccer team (originally as the NY/NJ MetroStars), to bring home its first MLS Cup.

“The players, coaches and entire staff have a lot to be proud of, this playoff run has truly been special,” Marc de Grandpré, president, Red Bull New York told NJBIZ. “Our fans have been with us every step of the way and their support has lifted our club to another level. We look forward to a historic afternoon in Los Angeles this Saturday as we play for the coveted MLS Cup.”