Baby Blues crash out of playoffs

The MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs debut of New York City FC II didn't go as planned.

The Baby Blues lost to Philadelphia Union II at Subaru Park last night after the hosts scored a goal in the 86th minute. The match ended 1-0, as Philadelphia advance to the Eastern Conference Semifinals where they will face a Columbus Crew 2 who overcame the odds to beat Inter Miami CF II in Florida.

NYCFC II's performance echoed the First Team's loss to CF Montréal the previous day: New York City dominated possession, holding the ball 61% of the game, but they managed only one shot on target, and were caught out of position by a Philadelphia that are dangerous in transition. Philadelphia's defense neutralized New York City's attacking duo of Taylor Calheira and Jonathan Jimenez, who combined for 22 goals this year. The two had 12 touches in the opposition box in this game, but failed to capitalize on their opportunities.

For their part, Philadelpia's lone goal was true to the club's counter-attacking playing style. Philadelphia defender Neil Pierre dispossessed NYCFC II's Jonathan Shore in the midfield, then released midfielder Christopher Olney with a long-distance diagonal cross. The 17-year-old took on New York City goalkeeper Alex Rando, rifling his shot into the roof of the net.

This game ends the most successful season in NYCFC II's short history. The team advanced to the Round of 16 in the 2024 US Open Cup, logging one upset win after another as they defeated more experienced teams from leagues higher up the United States soccer pyramid. The Baby Blues even earned a $25,000 cash prize for advancing farther than any other Division III club.

New York City FC II win $25,000 after US Open Cup win

The Baby Blues get the payout after becoming the only Division III team to advance to the Round of 16.

Hudson River BlueHudson River Blue Staff

They also found a new home at Icahn Stadium on Randall's Island after New York City FC funded a $3 million upgrade of the field and facilities. The stadium, which is owned and operated by the Parks Department, first hosted NYCFC II on September 6, and will be one of the team's primary venues in coming years.

How Randall’s Island fits into the NYCFC puzzle

Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island is back to hosting professional soccer: Here’s how New York City FC, NYCFC II, and visiting international teams could make use of the upgraded facility.

Hudson River BlueAndrew Leigh

Finally, the Baby Blues advanced to the MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs after failing to make the postseason in their first two years of existence. They finished the year in Sixth Place in the 15-team Eastern Conference, with 45 points after 28 games. The 58 regular goals the Baby Blues scored in the regular season were the third-highest in the league, trailing only the 59 goals scored by Philadelphia and Tacoma Defiance.