When the New York Red Bulls began the 2020 season against FC Cincinnati at Red Bull Arena, they played a strong first half and held the result against a side that was in disarray. Manager Ron Jans had been dismissed by the club just days earlier following complaints from players over racist language in the locker room.
This Cincinnati team had looked lost and clueless at times, including a loss to their Ohio neighbors in the Columbus Crew that has looked strong, and dangerous so far in this MLS is Back tournament.
But now with a new Cincinnati head coach in legendary former Manchester United and Dutch national team defender Jaap Stam, it could be a hard game for the Red Bulls on Wednesday night.