David Villa will miss the showdown with Columbus Crew SC through illness.
The 35-year old is omitted from the squad for the first time since he was suspended in June 2016, meaning reigning USL MVP Sean Okoli makes his NYCFC debut.
Villa travelled to Columbus despite his illness and came close to making the 18 but narrowly missed out and will stay in the team hotel to continue his recovery.
Head Coach Patrick Vieira explained: "He didn't train at all, all week. He had a small session yesterday by himself with one of the coaches and he was feeling good.